G-L-O-R-I-A

Nothing works better to dissipate anger and distrust than a forthright and meaningful response to criticism. Her colleagues on the Board of Supervisors and other county officials should consider it their duty to deal with Molina’s concerns on their merits alone.

As for Molina, is it enough to dismiss the hurt feelings and egos of others by saying that her style is inherited and her “take-no-prisoners attitude” is a product of the system? This has never been an issue for men. No male politician has been admonished publicly because he intimidates people; no male politician is advised to attract his flies with honey. Until that happens, Molina should not be held to an elusive standard of “niceness.” Until then, if she proves to be an honest, competent and effective legislator, that should be sufficient.

JANA ZIMMER

Santa Barbara