Marin IJ Readers’ Forum for Aug. 23, 2024

Improvements for existing paths make more sense

I think recent calls to reopen Alto Tunnel between Mill Valley and Corte Madera for cyclists and pedestrians is a daydreamer’s feast.

There are already two existing bike routes, yet now the dreamers want more. Just because it is a shiny idea doesn’t mean it is a better solution than simply improving existing solutions. Planning improvements on the existing paths would be easy, financially responsible and useful.

The proposal would be so disruptive to the neighborhoods. If the biking community truly needs the existing paths to be improved, then focus on implementing those simple improvements. In the meantime, just continue to enjoy the ride.

— J. Bell, Mill Valley

‘Friendship Table’ brings community together

As a community, we often discuss the importance of connection, yet the opportunities for adults to engage in meaningful, fun interactions seem increasingly scarce. In our fast-paced, digital world, the need for real human connection is more vital than ever, but many of us find it harder to come by. That’s why I’m writing to highlight a remarkable event that promises to be a breath of fresh air for those seeking more than a typical night out.

On Aug. 29 at 7 p.m., I will be hosting “The Friendship Table” at Groundfloor in downtown San Rafael. This event is not just another gathering — it’s a carefully curated experience designed to foster genuine connections among attendees. With live music, delicious food sourced from our local farmers market and thoughtfully designed activities, it will offer a unique opportunity for adults to come together in a welcoming, relaxed environment.

What we need is spaces where people can truly connect. Understanding the longing for opportunities to forge genuine connections in a fun atmosphere, my friend, Tracy Friesen, and I have made it a labor of love to present this event.

We all crave connection, yet too often we settle for scrolling through social media or watching Netflix. What we’re missing is the kind of face-to-face interaction that brings joy, reduces stress and builds strong communities. This event is a step toward reclaiming that sense of belonging.

I urge our community to embrace this opportunity to support initiatives like this and encourage the creation of more events that bring us together as a community.

— Sara Lahey, San Rafael

Many stories portray Serra as beloved figure

I am writing in response to the recent Marin Voice commentary by Frank Lindh (“San Rafael parishioner extolls restorative justice process,” Aug. 19). Lindh neglected to mention the deep offense to many Catholics following the desecration of the statue of Junipero Serra on church grounds.

“History,” like many things, varies according to who is writing it. There are many accounts of Serra’s life depicting him as a dedicated defender of Indigenous people. These accounts portray the people’s love of him.

I worry that the “history” Lindh mentions is part of an agenda.

— Rose Koufos, York Springs (Pennsylvania)

Regulating AI will be incredibly difficult

I am writing in response to a New York Times article recently republished in the Marin IJ (“State bill to regulate AI alarms tech sector,” Aug. 16). It’s about Senate Bill 1047 to regulate artificial intelligence.

Attempting to regulate AI is like trying to hold water in your hand or like trying to regulate COVID-19. Harsh civil and criminal penalties may be required to help control misuse.

— Stephen Redner, San Rafael

Trump’s Medal of Honor comment is disturbing

I am an Army veteran whose service was undistinguished but honorable.

In 2018, then-President Donald Trump awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Miriam Adelson. My understanding is that her only “distinguished act” was donating a pile of money to his campaign, thus reducing what was once an honor to something now thrown in a drawer by previous recipients.

Trump recently compared that award to the Medal of Honor, the highest possible military decoration, suggesting that the Medal of Freedom was a more significant award. One does not “win” the Medal of Honor. It is presented by a grateful country for an unimaginable sacrifice.

I was not going to vote for Trump in the November election, but I’m sure a few of my fellow veterans were. How could anyone who wore a uniform ever vote for him now?

— Charles Kelly, Fairfax