Readers React: Sandy Banks’ columns will be missed

To the editor: It was with despair and disappointment that I read Sandy Banks’ farewell in her final column. (“After 36 years, it’s time to say thanks and farewell to readers,” Dec. 26)

One of the most distinguishing features of The Times is its trove of human-interest columnists like Banks, Steve Lopez, David Lazarus, Chris Erskine, Robin Abcarian and the long-ago jettisoned Al Martinez, who address issues of the human spirit through the lives and experiences of people just like you and me. They reach the human heart in ways that no news or editorials can.

Banks is a talented, compassionate, open-hearted writer. Her columns affected readers emotionally by sharing the stories and interactions with the people she wrote about.

Lillian Cole, Santa Monica

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To the editor: I’ve been reading The Times daily since June 1950, when the Korean War began. I was 8 years old, and my dad said it was time I learned what was going on around the world.

Of all the columnists I’ve read over the past 65 years, Banks stands out as one of the very best. I’m going to miss her take on things going forward.

All the best in your future endeavors, Sandy.

Alan Miller, Santiago, Chile

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To the editor: It saddened me to read of Banks’ departure from The Times. I’ve read and enjoyed her thoughtful essays for many, many years.

Among other things, she and I are both transplants from Cleveland to Southern California. I felt we shared a point of view based on some kind of Midwestern ethic of industriousness and fair play that could thrive in this region.

Thanks, Ms. Banks, for your wisdom and insight. You will be missed.

Kevin Patrick, Del Mar

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