Cover Story
Political hopefuls engage the Internet
Political hopefuls have always seized technological advances to get an edge in their campaigns. JFK did it with television. More recently, President Barack Obama’s team executed a social media strategy largely credited with bringing mass voter attention to his message of hope and change. Considering the results—Obama is in the White House, after all—it’s no…
WWFD?
I’m eating a delicious but unpronounceable Italian dish made with scampi and saffron and staring across the table at a six-foot blond in a hot pink cocktail dress. We’re at Buena Tavola, and the blond is Dora Mountain, one of the models from the Embodiment human canvas art show and also a New Times designer.…
How should Congress improve health care?
Roger Riley retired “We should be able to buy insurance anywhere without limitation; there should be restrictions on malpractice lawsuits; and pharmaceutical ads should be banned.” Jim Saunders jewelry manufacturer “I think Medicare is the model. People without money can’t pay $1000 per month in insurance premiums. Lawrence Orona driver “There must be better coverage…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
You certainly found yourself an inflammatory bigot to publish and I have to say I am incensed. Although I do not expect you to publish an article from a 23-year-old gay street kid with no formal education in writing, I figured I would give it a shot. I would appreciate the opportunity to voice my…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Had Otis Page (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25) bothered to research the definition of the word “homophobia,” he might not have confessed to being a homophobe. Homophobia: “an extreme and irrational aversion to homosexuality and homosexual people.” No one is accusing him of hating gays as that emotion is not included in the definition.…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
In his commentary “Confession of a homophobe” (Feb. 25) Otis Page’s first assumption is that he is accused of being a homophobe because he believes sexual orientation is a matter of choice. I believe he is accused of being a homophobe because he writes about homosexual practices so much. He assumes he is the arbiter…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
When Otis Page described what he believes would be the consequences of gay rights (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25) he was obviously writing from fear. His fear that gay people would take away his rights makes him a homophobe. If he honestly feels that engaging in sex with another man is an “indulgence,” then…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
I would like to thank Otis Page for his enlightening comments concerning the long-term consequences of tolerating homosexuality (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25). I myself have seen the ill effects of tolerance and acceptance firsthand. I had the misfortune of being born to parents who were committed to a specific “agenda” who made sure…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
If there is a prize for arrogance all other contenders should despair. Otis Page (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25) is certain he is right and people who disagree with him are wrong (a charitable predicate adjective, considering his point of view). Natural Law is on his side; all questions about human nature and the…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
When I picked up the Feb. 25 edition of the New Times, I was curious to read the commentary advertised on the cover “A homophobe confesses his bias.” I thought I was going to be reading something that was possibly enlightening and, with some sarcastic humor, be supportive of the gay equal rights movement. Instead I…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
The civil rights movement’s mission was not to make everyone black, but rather to end the institutionalized discrimination and the pervasive racism that perhaps still runs rampant in many parts of this country. Do racists still exist? Sure, and it’s not illegal to be one, though it may be illegal to act on that racism.…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Regarding the commentary by Otis Page (Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25), methinks he doth protest too much!
re: Confessions of a homophobe
The funniest part about Otis Page’s opinion piece “Confession of a homophobe” (Feb. 25) was his admission that he might be “belaboring the point.” You think? Page has been writing this same drivel for years. I used to spend time writing pithy responses refuting his illogical points about the “homosexual agenda” but it became so…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Tell Otis Page he’s off his rocker (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25). First point: In no way whatsoever would any LGBT person expect or want straight people to change the way they love. No LGBT person is going to get upset if anyone doesn’t engage in homosexual or bisexual activities. Gay, bisexual, and transgendered…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Otis Page has presented us with an astonishing dilemma (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25). He concludes that when gays attain equal rights he, and presumably all other heterosexuals, will be forced to commit acts of sodomy in order to avoid being labeled homophobes! I am now convinced he has a screw missing somewhere. I…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
As Paul Simon would say, Otis Page (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25) is a One Trick Pony: “He gives his testimony / Then he relaxes in the weeds / He’s got one trick to last a lifetime / That’s all a pony needs.” I was going to quote Shakespeare (“The lady doth protest too…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
I’m so glad Otis Page finally explained his homophobia (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25). For years, he’s regularly written to express his opposition to all things gay, but he never made it clear just what it was about “The Gay” that bothered him so much. Now, with his “confession,” his fears are clear: Page believes that…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Otis Page knows just enough big words to be dangerous. His commentary, “Confession of a homophobe” (Feb. 25), is filled with illogical generalizations. Mainly, he worries that the legalization of gay marriage will have everyone dabbling in homosexuality, so that the world becomes one big, hedonistic, crazy, sexually laden love fest. In answer to that,…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
The goal of the LGBT civil rights movement is simply to gain the same legal protection for our romantic and intimate relationships that’s currently given to heterosexuals. To suggest we are trying to encourage heterosexuals to engage in same-sex relationships is a ridiculous fantasy (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb.25). Why would we care?
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Judging by his “Confession of a homophobe” commentary (Feb. 25), it seems Otis Page has thought about our sexuality tirelessly of late. Despite his fixation on what we may or may not do as same-sex partners (and he does express rather rich and specific imaginings in his article), we never concern ourselves with his sexual…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
The issue not included in the commentary “Confession of a Homophobe” (Feb. 25) is the intimidation by homosexuals against those who are critical of their agenda. This was evident with Prop. 8, when homosexuals forcefully reacted against the Mormons and Catholics who supported the measure. This intimidation was substantiated in the media and in the…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Thank you for allowing Otis Page to clarify his prejudice in the opinion pages (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb.25) for it is a prejudice still held by many. Blinded by a religious fervor, they fail to see their own spiritual poverty, fail to recognize true love among others, and remain incapable of unconditional love themselves.…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Given New Times’ usual progressive/tolerant stance on most issues, I was very surprised to read “Confession of a homophobe” in your Feb. 25 edition. Although I support Otis Page’s First Amendment rights, I also support responsible reporting and journalism practices: Printing such a commentary as this, which is largely based on bigotry, irrational fear (the…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
I just picked up New Times and I believe it may be the last time I do so. I am utterly appalled you would allow Otis Page’s opinion to be displayed so large in your newspaper (“Confession of a homophobe,” Feb. 25) along with a photo as though it deserves such a spotlight. This type…
re: Confessions of a homophobe
Editor’s note: New Times received many letters in response to the contributed commentary “Confession of a homophobe,” which appeared in the Feb. 25 edition; too many to publish in print this week, even in the extra space especially allotted. The letters continue at newtimesslo.com. All of the responses except one strongly criticize or mock the…
Testing the water
If I play the war card and promise to start at least one war every year, can I be President?
Congressional districts should be increased
I have always been troubled by the idea of using campaign finance laws to try to combat big corporate spending in political campaigns. The current laws are complex and easily evaded and corrupted by the big money spenders anyway, and then there is the issue of free speech. The millions of dollars necessary for Congressional…
Ag and open space is the top priority
It is not often when I agree with Andy Caldwell but his commentary (“Will our SLO lifestyle suffer a SLO death,” Feb. 18) hits the nail on the head. It deals with the state requirement for every community to accommodate its share of growth: “this despite the fact that not every community has adequate water,…
Ag and open space is the top priority
It is not often when I agree with Andy Caldwell but his commentary (“Will our SLO lifestyle suffer a SLO death,” Feb. 18) hits the nail on the head. It deals with the state requirement for every community to accommodate its share of growth: “this despite the fact that not every community has adequate water,…
Diablo’s a risky bet
I attended one of the recent meetings held by the NRC regarding re-licensing the Diablo nuclear power plant and had intended to ask about the radioactive tritium that has been found mysteriously leaking from nuclear plants elsewhere into groundwater, but I did not speak up because the subject was mentioned by another concerned citizen. My question would…
USDA has clarified organic certification
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently finalized regulations that will ensure organically certified production practices are in keeping with the spirit of what an organic label means to consumers. The organic rule already required that producers afford livestock access to pastures to receive certification, but the new rule will clarify vague language about how…
Street vendors should stay
Regarding the letter “Ban street-corner vendors in AG” (Feb. 25), how many people have bought flowers from those street corner vendors who could not afford the very high prices flower shops charge? In these hard times, how many people have had a smile put on their faces because they’ve received flowers, thanks to the street-corner…
Moved by physician’s courage
Thank you for publishing Richard O’Neil’s brave, candid commentary about his illness (“My health-care crisis,” Feb. 11). I found it to be absolutely 100 percent true. I do not personally know O’Neil, however I would see him frequently walking around the hospital corridors. I am a Registered Nurse and was working at French Hospital Medical Center…
Davis will contribute
The article “Time Served” (Feb. 18) was timely, well written and well researched: kudos to your reporter, Matt Fountain. It is surely time for Bruce Davis and other rehabilitated inmates to be released and allowed to become useful citizens instead of a continual financial burden on our society. Politics and union jobs have for too…
Dr. Loosen 2008 Riesling
It’s not often you can find a wine that earned 90 points from Wine Spectator in Trader Joes but this is one of those rare occassions. This fabulous white wine received great accolades when their critics placed it among the top 100 wines of the year. A delightful, easy sipping wine with impressive notes of…
Gone but not forgotten
How much does it cost to care for a dove for two months? San Luis Obispo County claims it cost $1,020 to take care of a single dove for 63 days. In fact, the county kept 23 birds for that long and the tab adds up to more than $26,000; far more than what someone…
The immovable Dan DeVaul
One of Dan DeVaul’s saving graces as he’s fought SLO County both in and outside court for many years—aside from the shelter he provides for chronically homeless, mentally ill, and addicted residents at his Sunny Acres sober living facility—has been his unflinching, bullheaded attitude. DeVaul absolutely refuses to budge when it comes to fixing building-code…
Oceano airport OK, SLO in trouble
Don’t worry: The Oceano Airport isn’t going anywhere. As for the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, it might be OK to start biting your fingernails. Responding to a proposal by Los Osos developer Jeff Edwards to redevelop the 59-acre Oceano Airport into a new town center, SLO County supervisors fervently assured that there are…
How to manufacture asphalt on ranch land
Is it OK to build an asphalt factory on ranch land? SLO County planners seem to think so. In fact, they’re plunging through possible loopholes that could give at least one developer permission to mine rock, truck in petroleum, and manufacture asphalt in rural Santa Margarita. County Environmental Resource Specialist Jeff Oliveira, however, said…
Disheartened deputies get their union
After a year of legal haggling and many more years of internal grumbling, a faction of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department has been granted a split from the Deputy Sheriff’s Association (DSA). The new bargaining body, the Association of San Luis Obispo County Deputy Sheriffs—commonly referred to as ASLO—will represent the department’s sworn…
Party animals crash: Drunk birds hit reflective windows
Mardi Gras was cancelled, fines for noise violations increased, and downtown bars have been admonished for allowing rowdy behavior. But in SLO’s fight to reduce alcohol-related problems, one group was forgotten. The bird is the word. Roughly a dozen small birds were found dead outside of the County Government Center on the Higuera Street sidewalk…
Kona’s burns
At 4 a.m. on March 3, firefighters responded to flames “shooting through the roof” of Cabo San Luis Restaurant on Foothill in San Luis Obispo. The fire caused a soda fountain’s CO2 cylinder to blow out one of the business’ walls. Fire fighters took about an hour to extinguish the flames, which damaged two other…
The heat is on
As New Times has noted (“Jerry Brown weighs in on local energy,” Feb. 11), it’s not every day that California’s Attorney General intervenes at the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors to influence local land use policy. Jerry Brown took the time to dash off a letter to the Supervisors for their February 9…
The evidence is clear
The clear scientific evidence that man-induced climate change could have profound and perhaps disastrous consequences is being denied by economic and political forces. In the U.S., those with the most to lose, such as the coal and oil industries, are funding efforts to discredit the scientific basis for climate change concerns. Science is not a…
And the losers are …
Whoops. It’s not just the Democrats who are screwing up these days. This was sent to me from a very-much-not Republican who mistakenly got shipped a Republican National Committee survey. I’m using the word “survey” pretty liberally here. Or should I say I’m using the word conservatively? While I mull that over, I’ll let you…
Dan Schwent, General Manager
NEW TIMES: Does Hot Shots offer any pool tournaments? SCHWENT: No, we don’t hold any tournaments because of liability issues. However, we do have a league that uses our facility. They’ll show up on Tuesdays from September to February or March. NEW TIMES: Tell us about your building. SCHWENT: The old theatre we’re in…
Foundation seeks donations for libraries
San Luis Obispo County libraries circulated more than two million items last year; double the number from the previous year. The number of people who received new library cards increased by 10 percent in 2009 and such online services as downloadable books rose 35 percent. Despite increased library use, budgets have been cut, impacting hours,…
Artifacts 03.03
Art After Dark March 5, 6-9 p.m. Anam-Cre’ Pottery Studio: 570 Higuera #140, 544-1850. anamcre.com. apRoberts Arts: 570 Higuera #152, 234-5061. Jimmy apRoberts and Brian Christopher, ongoing collaborations. ARTS Space Obispo: 570 Higuera #165, 544-9251. Pi Art: A Celebration of Art and Mathematics. Frame Works: 339 Marsh 542-9000. Original paintings by local artists Alfredo Arciniaga,…
Math + art
For several years now artist Fred Ventura, who’s an ARTS Obispo board member, has hosted an annual party in celebration of Pi Day. Anyone who just began salivating is in for a rude awakening. Pi Day commemorates math, and more specifically the number 3.14, which is the rounded result from dividing the circumference of a…
Friends, theater lovers
To kill or not to kill is the primary question posed in William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. Of course, most contemporary audiences know the answer to this question. Caesar is betrayed by Rome’s senators, including his protégé Marc Brutus, prompting one of Shakespeare’s best-known lines, “Et tu, Brute?” Cal Poly professor Josh Machamer’s challenge, in the…
A little taste of Texas soul
Joe Koenig likes to keep things sparse. After all, his sound is about lyrics and melody—his power as the songwriter amplified by his minimalist approach. Most of his songs are autobiographical. In fact, on his website texas-soul.com he claims that if you organized his songs in the right order, they’d tell his life’s story. The…
Clubs
Goin’ South … CAFÉ ANDREINI: 131 E. Branch St., Arroyo Grande, 481-6117. Thurs.: Live music at 6pm. COFFEE BEAN AND TEA LEAF: 750 Five Cities Dr., Pismo Beach, 773-6420. Music Night every Sat., 6:30-8:30pm. DOLPHIN BAY/LIDO: 2727 Shell Beach Rd., Shell Beach, 773-4300 or TheDolphinBay.com. ELMO’S NIPOMO SALOON: 131 South Thompson Road, Nipomo, 929-5362. Karaoke…
Good eats are just around the corner
If you asked me to name my favorite ethnic cuisine, I’d tell you I love good food no matter where it originates. That’s why I thoroughly enjoyed an opportunity to taste an array of appetizers from a worldly menu that included: sashimi style, seared ahi, crusted with sesame seeds and a good, crunchy Asian slaw…
