ADULT LIT, TOO

I enjoyed reading Walter Ryce’s well-researched story on graphic novels (“Getting Graphic,” Feb. 18-24), the cutting edge of literature. But to describe Belle Yang as merely a children’s book author and illustrator is a disservice. Of the six books she has previously released, two are primarily for adults: Baba: A Return to China Upon My Father’s Shoulders and The Odyssey of a Manchurian. --Fred Hernandez | Pacific Grove

Traveling Man

The cover story (“Getting Graphic,” Feb. 18-24) by Walter Ryce is a marvelous account of the rise of the graphic novel and the work of Jeff Hoke. With Walter’s usual thoroughness, it was terrific to travel with him in the story to the Alternative Press Expo for a survey course of what’s happening in that artform, and then have the “Graphic Novels 101” box at the end for further reading. Great work, Walter, and MCW – such articles make me really miss the talented scene there! --Maureen Davidson | Santa Cruz

COUNT HER IN

Councilmember [Dave] McCall says, “just not now” on annexation (“Marina’s Big Move,” Feb. 18-24), attempting to hold the door shut on full representation for hundreds of long-term residents of the east campus housing area who educate their children, recreate, shop, pay taxes, volunteer and go to church in the city of Marina. He has mischaracterized these residents as “renters” and “transients,” in a city itself barely 35 years old. He ignores the fact that every agency involved in the annexation process has stated without qualification that such a move must legally be “revenue neutral.”

Many of these homeowners have watched the university where they work grow along with their children, now of voting age. This issue has been discussed since the inception of the university. CSUMB isn’t “passing the ball.” They have pledged support in working with the city of Marina on the next move; this can’t be one-sided.

Some Marina leaders are delighted to reap the benefits from CSUMB’s Service Learning volunteers, but won’t support their right to vote where they live.Some fearful residents gasp, “Look what happened to Santa Cruz!” Yes, look! A lively downtown, diverse locally owned shopping, theater, music, entertainment and great restaurants.

Let’s hope east campus residents will make their interest known at the upcoming study session. I would welcome their full participation in civic affairs, and hope they forgive the embarrassing exclusionary attitude of a few. These fantastic neighbors have offered such a bright spectrum of benefits to city life. --Luana Conley | Marina

SHIP OF FOOLS?

Thanks to Robin Urevich for your revealing article (“Shipping News,” Jan. 28-Feb. 5) about the plight of Monterey History and Art Association and its museum. The story just gets worse and worse. From the dismissal of valuable staff to the rueful and insulting comments about the recent MHAA board president’s resignation, the new director shows a real lack of understanding of the situation or the museum’simportance, let alone Monterey, its history or its community. The board needs to take effective control, and soon. --Daniel Taylor | Monterey