BART’s incompetence on display
Regarding “Major overhaul for BART” (Letters, May 1): I agree with the letter writer about the overtime abuse at BART. BART workers, like any worker, will do what they can. Don’t blame the workforce. The problem is that BART management can’t manage, and the board that is supposed to provide oversight is totally incompetent. It isn’t a question of just overtime, but total managing of its resources. Just look at the Lafayette BART Station, where parking lot renovations have been going on indefinitely, while another lot in town had a gas station removed and a new lot installed, is significantly further along in less time.
Leonard Dorin, Lafayette
A comedian’s job
Regarding “Foul-mouthed comedian” (Letters, May 2): I read the writer’s letter who claims that comedian Michelle Wolf “bullied and savaged” press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders at the recent White House correspondents’ dinner. It is the job of comedians to discuss issues in an irreverent yet insightful manner and to sometimes make those in power feel uncomfortable. Michelle Wolf succeeded in doing both of these things masterfully at this event and reminded all of us of the importance of our First Amendment freedom of speech rights.
Felicia Charles, Millbrae
Empty store fronts
Regarding “Body Time shuts stores — victim of rising rents” (Business, April 27): All over the Bay Area empty store fronts are appearing like missing teeth. It’s not a pretty sight. What does that mean for the future city streets?As more aspects of commerce move to the digital realm, will there still be a village life? It was with this in mind that I read about the the closing of the Body Time store. This store has been a fixture here in Berkeley with such a faithful following that, despite closing, the company continues to work to fill an onslaught of pending orders. “We will not cease operations until every order is filled,” the company wrote, describing the experience of closing as “heartbreaking.” Do we really want to give up a business like that? And what will replace it? I wonder if the cycle of raising rents on retail stores will continue to be a successful business model.