October 24, 2004

Dear Editor:

Recently, like all residents, I have received an abundance of political mailers. However, I am writing about two specific mailers to date from College Board incumbent Margaret Quinones; there may be more sent out.

One mailer implies my endorsement by naming me in alphabetical order under the phrase "The Entire SMC Board of Trustees Agree" to her reelection. The other mailer specifically uses the word "endorsement" by " The Entire SMC Board of Trustees."

I can only speak for myself. Margaret Quinones' campaign either intentionally or inadvertently has misled the voters. I have not endorsed nor do I intend to endorse Margaret Quinones for reelection to the College Board.

One's name can be a powerful tool in an election and should not be used without specific permission. I want to set the record straight because it is important to me that the voters in Santa Monica and Malibu have complete and accurate information regarding the candidates.

Sincerely,

Annette Shamey
Trustee, Santa Monica College

October 23, 2004

Dear Editor:

I would like to point out all the ironies in Miss Ha Ra Beck's letter criticizing Bobby Shriver for including his mother in his campaign for Santa Monica City Council. (“LETTERS: CEPS Bullies and Flash & Dash,” October 18, 2004)

Miss Ha Ra Beck happens to be Ken Genser's sister. How ironic that Mr. Genser is also running for Santa Monica City Council. It is also ironic that Mr. Genser makes a regular practice of bringing his own mother to campaign events. I saw her at the CEPS forum and again last week at the St. Anne's forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters. She was sitting in the front row, directly across from Mrs. Shriver.

Mr. Genser's campaign mailer has a prominent photo of him standing under a marquis, with the caption, "My dad built the Aero Theater." Is he not using both his mother and father in his campaign?

Yet another irony: Genser's sister is criticizing Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of Special Olympics, a worldwide movement that has promoted acceptance and opportunities for disabled people, many of whom use canes and wheelchairs, as do Mr. Genser and his mother.

Family support is basic to political campaigns and life in general. So to Ha Ra Beck: Shame on you for ridiculing Bobby Shriver's support system!