Editor:
In a prior life, my family and I lived in Coto de Caza, the epicenter of gate-guarded communities, pretended perfection and indeed the living set for TV’s “The Real Housewives of the OC.”
Laguna Beach stands in stark contrast. Not only were we attracted to the beaches, schools and overall charm, but as the father of four children I loved that this town had opportunities to serve.
For years I have been volunteering at the Friendship Shelter where I teach a class called, “Four Cornerstones.” Here I discuss life skills with my homeless friends. While I have a very minor role, it is a privilege to see our town, the donors, staff and an army of volunteers all come together to help these people elevate.
Many times I have seen people get off the streets, get sober, learn new life skills, get a job, move into an apartment and restart a whole new life. While I have witnessed this over and over, the thrill never gets old.
Now comes the ACLU. Do they attack Coto de Caza where I am certain no homeless person has ever penetrated through the gates? Do they go to war with other communities that turn their noses up at the homeless altogether? Do they help or do anything constructive?
No. The geniuses at the ACLU have set their crosshairs on us. I know firsthand that the city, the Friendship Shelter and the Resource Center have limited resources. Each dollar and hour spent defending against the ACLU’s mindless attacks is money and time taken from the homeless themselves.
There is good and there is evil, and it is important to know the difference. Bravo to the great city of Laguna Beach, the staff, donors and volunteers of the Friendship Shelter and Resource Center. Shame on the ACLU and their warped attack on homeless advocates.
Randall Bell, Ph.D. Laguna Beach
I share the outrage of Randall Bell concerning the criticism of the ACLU regarding Laguna’s practices regarding the homeless or indigent among us. My experience is that Lagunans are grateful for the beauty, tranquility, and tolerance in which we live and are sensitive to the plight of less fortunate homeless and indigent individuals among us. We do have and support organized groups like the Friendship Center in Laguna and we also have the opportunity to intercede directly when we encounter a fellow human being with a need for help. Likewise, we have the duty to understand that some of these people have mental problems that contribute to their difficulties. The ACLU, of all groups, should realize that it is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness, and that ACLU has chosen to ignore the positive efforts being made locally every day regarding the homeless in Laguna.