‘Do you work for the Bee or the Democrats?’ Columnist steps aside for reader feedback

I hogged this space quite enough in 2022. Today, the readers get their say.

Well, mostly.

“As I read your column (about Clovis’ resistance to affordable housing), I was reminded of a discussion we had in an education class at Fresno State,” Tim H. wrote. “Students were talking about how much better Clovis schools were than surrounding districts. I suggested that the Clovis schools were not necessarily better but that their increased scores were due to de facto segregation.

“It is my opinion that one big reason that Clovis continues to fight low-income housing is to maintain their reputation for good schools. It is very interesting to look at the boundaries for Clovis schools which seem to extend into high-income Fresno neighborhoods.”

Why is July 26, 1935, a significant date in local history? On that day the Pinedale School District joined what was then Clovis Union High School, which is the reason “Clovis schools” stretch across north Fresno.

“I was homeless from Fresno when I got my 2br, 2bath with 2 car garage in Clovis,” Dane K. wrote. “I pay less than the 2br apartment I had on First and Belmont in Fresno, so I think your story is bull—.”

Opinion

Can’t please ’em all.

“I am a trustee of the Sandra L. Williams Trust which directs a distribution in excess of $800,000 to the San Joaquin River Conservancy,” Don F. wrote. “Thank you for bringing to our attention these under-reported subjects which ultimately have a significant impact on the quality of our lives and the environment.”

You’re welcome. Under-reported subjects are my raison d’etre.

“I prefer the Big 12 to the Pac-12,” Bill T. wrote concerning Fresno State’s Power 5 conference hopes. “I think it is more stable and I think that culturally it is a better fit for a farm community school like ours.”

They don’t have farms in Oregon and Washington?

“So let me understand that all one has to do when you are a politician is to say you committed a crime and your case is dismissed?” Mark B. wrote regarding the non-trial of Fresno City Council President Nelson Esparza. “Then you blame (Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp) of going after Democrats? You can do better than that.”

I can? Appreciate the encouragement.

“I’ve shared my congratulations with Nelson Esparza, my former councilman,” Ron S. wrote. “Lisa Smittcamp is dirty. Garry Bredefeld is dirty. The Fresno G.O.P. is dirty, and the voices I hear on KMJ are UGLY. Thanks for being there.”

With apologies to Popeye, I yam where I yam.

“Great column in today’s Bee,” Ken W. wrote. “I wonder how many more special interest tax measures will be trotted out in future elections.”

Something tells me we haven’t seen the last of them, despite the demise of Measure E.

“Besides being condescending and downright vicious,” Jim S. wrote, “your article on Squaw Valley locals is also yet another example of your tendency to sound knowledgeable when, in fact, you don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Have you ever even been to Squaw Valley?” Carla G. asked.

Never. Every time I drive to Kings Canyon, my truck sprouts wings at Minkler.

“I want to thank you for your insightful piece on the Squaw Valley name dispute,” M.R. wrote. “As a Squaw Valley resident who attended the recent meeting, I will say that you summed up my own thoughts quite accurately.”

Huh? Imagine that.

“Why aren’t we saving water?” Cliff M. asked. “Simple question, simple answer: Because people, in general, are idiots!”

Well, yes. Except that would be a pretty short column.

“Your breathing smoking air article tries to be optimistic that constructive changes will be made,” Jeff S. texted. “Do not hold your breath. The eco-terrorists have the power. Otherwise we would have had proper forest management and power line setbacks long ago. Wake up and smell the smoke.”

My nostrils are fully functional, thanks.

“Gee, I thought I was having déjà vu,” Laura H. wrote. “Your comments about the propositions are almost word for word what I was saying to my husband as I was marking my ballot.”

You know what they say about hive minds … err, great minds.

“I treasure all of your editorials/commentaries,” Dolores D. wrote. “You are gifted with a rare ability to write about things that are thought provoking and applicable. Spectacular journalism.”

Aww, you’re making me blush.

“Has the Mayor (Jerry Dyer) accepted your bike commute invitation yet?” Amy Z. emailed.

No, but thanks for the reminder.

“Do you work for the Bee or the Democratic party?” Humberto S. asked. “Honestly it’s hard to tell the difference.”

If you saw my pay stub, there would be zero doubt.

“Thank you for calling them like you see ’em,” Tom B. wrote.

It’s the least I can do.

“Don’t get yourself fired, Marek,” R. Davis wrote.

Trying real hard to avoid that, thanks.

“I ALWAYS read your column to the end, Marek,” Gary G. wrote. “You are the conscience of central California, the voice of reason. … Don’t go to Minneapolis with Corin Hoggard, there are plenty of snow jobs right here to keep your typewriter warm and humming!”

Remark No. 1: That’s a scary thought.

Remark No. 2: Snow jobs … good one.