Letters to the editor, August 26, 2010

On desert off-roading

Well now Feinstein and Boxer to the rescue. They will close the rest of the desert for their private park. Off-road racing is supposed to go fast,  not 15 mph by the spectators. Four hundred miles of fence would close the desert to everyone. Two thousand guards would cost the national debt. The spectators should have half a brain and stay off the course.

Joe Golden, Yermo

Dangerous dogs threaten children

This is my first time writing into the paper. I’m a concerned grandma. My son and his family live in the city of Barstow off of Main Street. They have new neighbors with pit bulls. These dogs are out of their yard a lot. They have no tags or collars. You would think the Humane Society would pick them up. My 12-year-old granddaughter was chased by the female dog, who has puppies and is very aggressive. Thankfully, she got into her yard which is fenced.

My son called the police department and was told to call the Humane Society.
There was no help whatsoever.

I would like to know if this was happening in an upscale neighborhood how long they would let these dogs run loose. This is not right.

Carol Throenle, Hinkley

Repair residential roads

When was the last time you drove down Montara or H? How about down Rimrock east of Barstow Road? If you live here, you probably use these roads several times each week if not daily. Why is Rimrock east of Barstow Road not maintained like Rimrock west of Barstow Road? I am starting to think our city is catering to those that travel through our town and not to those who live here. I understand that we must maintain a good image for our patrons. I also understand that without the residents of Barstow there would be no businesses for travelers to stop at on their way to Vegas!

If you live here and you tell someone from “down the hill” you are from Barstow they don’t say: ”Oh, that place with the nicely paved roads!” Not hardly! They are going to say: “Isn’t that where the McDonald’s in the train is?” I understand that Barstow relies on those that stop here, get gas, get something to eat and use the facilities or if we are lucky spend the night! But come on! Really? Is there a local automotive repair shop that offers discounts for front end alignments for residents of Barstow? I think not!

I understand that image is everything when it comes to our businesses being profitable. But I also understand that those of us that live here and pay taxes too deserve at least the same as those that travel through our town. So remember, the next time you travel down H, Montara or east of Barstow on Rimrock, stay to the right so you don’t get beat to death.

Sherri L. Morris, Barstow