The Cindy Sheehan story portrayed as wonderful? ( 'Vigil supports Vacaville anti-war mom's efforts,' Aug. 24). Someone who is a leader of the "blame America first" crowd doesn't deserve the support, respect and adulation from Willow Glen residents.

I'd like to see all of the same protesters back for a "support the troops" rally. Or how about a "support the spread of worldwide democracy" or "kill the terrorists rally?" How about it Willow Glen?

John DiGirolamo

Whispering Willow Place

It's not just money,
it's also kindness

This is in response to Moryt Milo's opinion piece ('Maybe it's time to review our priorities,' Aug. 24) in the Willow Glen Resident.

It seems that whenever there is an "animal cruelty" story in the news the focus on the animal involved is shifted over as if it were a sin to give money for animals as long as there are people suffering in the world. I believe that we are all God's creatures and have a right to live our lives without some maniac snuffing out dogs, cats, ducks or people.

In the case of Holly Kollenborn and her dog Jackson, who was murdered by some sicko, that $3,500 reward is appropriate to track down and hopefully apprehend the evil person who committed that act.

For those who believe that killing an animal is of little significance because it's only an animal and not a person, it has been shown that those who murder people often get their practice on animals first. In addition to the "civic lessons we should be teaching our children," how about kindness to animals being taught in the home? Children learn to have compassion at an early age if they are taught that all life is sacred.

Although I believe that money should go to "educate, nourish and clothe our community," wouldn't it also be the humane thing to do to give a few dollars to heal the hearts and souls of people like Kollenborn who have suffered such a personal loss?

It's not just about the money. Neighbors and family, as well as strangers, came to her aid, and I want to personally thank those people who could relate to her loss.

Linda Julian

Willow Glen