Domo Arigato 


One month ago, the people of Japan were hit by a massive disaster. As the shocking toll on human life and damages continue to be assessed, our nation is focused on the hard tasks of caring for those in need, and reconstruction.


Since this tragedy, Californians have joined with millions across the globe to extend prayers and assistance to the Japanese people. How can we begin to thank everyone for so many calls, e-mails, donations and other forms of support? Japan will never forget this kindness during the difficult hours, days and months ahead.


Of course, Japan is challenged to manage a catastrophe of this unprecedented magnitude. Yet we are not alone. We are aided by the kindness of Americans, including approximately 20,000 U.S. military personnel, the Coast Guard and government experts from many fields of nuclear crisis management and disaster relief. As the situation evolves, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Once again, thank you, California. - Hiroshi Inomata | San Francisco 


(Note: Mr. Inomata is the Consul General of Japan, based at Japan’s embassy in San Francisco.)


California Dreaming


Fifteen years and $150,000 in rent convinced me to leave California and return (sigh) to the wholesome, homely Midwest to buy a house (“How renovating a house was as much about building tension as building a home,” April 7-13). Recently I had misgivings about that move. Then I read your story – and my misgivings vanished. My condolences. - Mark J. Andrews | via Web


Ring-A-Ding


I believe a cell site in Carmel Village is a must (“Local outcry stalls approval of proposed cell tower,” April 7-13). I have been waiting over 20 years for a good cell signal in the valley, from the old Cellular One days. I have family spread around the world, and in an emergency, this can be the only [method] of contact, to say nothing of the families that only have cell phones (no land lines).


As far as the appearance is concerned, the antenna will be disguised as a tree and blend in beautifully with the local flora. Most people would never know it was not a real tree. If engineers have approved the structure as being safe and not an issue, why do a few people have to spoil the lives of many because they do not know or understand the facts? Please let us all communicate. - Graham | via Web


Solid Foundation


I have every confidence in the Monterey County Housing Authority’s Starla Warren (“Feds audit Housing Authority’s use of stimulus bucks,” April 7-13). She and her dedicated staff should never lose sleep. They do the people’s work, with low-income people in mind. They help them move on to self-sufficiency. Look at housing authority properties in Los Angeles, then compare them to Monterey County. - Richard C. Rangel | via Web


Derby Dames!


What does “roller derby” make you think? (“Street Talk,” April 7-13.)


Hot chicks… on skates… getting rough and tough - Kim Witt | via Facebook


Cat fights! - Phil Castillo | via Facebook


Broken bones! - Coleen Dunham | via Facebook


Hot mamas doing their thing! - Ame Wells | via Facebook


What I wish I was doing right now! - Jane Kordish | via Facebook


The Monterey Bay Derby Dames. Oh, and AWESOMENESS! - A’riel Humdinger | via Facebook 


Dollars for Short


This was a great event (“A report from Rachael Short ‘Be the Light’ benefit,” April 7-13). I had a blast and I was so happy to see Rach score with the auction. - rbs53184 | via Web


Yes on Brew


I think the iOpener is a great idea, but if you need to find your way around iNapa, will still work even if looking for beer (“New hope for craft beer outlet, surprising chef migrations and roses,” March 24-30). No network needed. - dkmcguire | via Web