Fernando’s Supporters Say Column Is Off Base

* The consideration being given to relocating the Fernando award statue from the Van Nuys Civic Center to the Warner Center Park is the latest slap in the face to the community of Van Nuys (“Moving Fernando Seen as Statutory Offense,” Scott Harris, Aug. 10).

Longtime residents of Van Nuys are acutely aware of the fact that our community does not receive the same treatment or respect as the more upscale communities in the San Fernando Valley.

Proponents of the move claim that they never intended to start a turf war, but when they’ve been quoted saying they “want to move the statue to a location that is more visible and less disagreeable ,” and “We’re committed to doing something on the West Valley--it’s a part of the Valley that has been developed in terms of residents and the business community,” they have not only created a turf war, but they have insulted an entire community. We feel we are owed a public apology.

The Van Nuys Civic Center is a part of our community that we are proud of. With its many surrounding offices and agencies, such as the state and federal buildings, the public library, Department of Building and Safety, the Municipal and Superior court buildings, the post office and the Van Nuys Police Station, we are convinced that this statue receives more daily exposure where it is than it will in Warner Center Park.

Rather than hurl insults at our community, these proponents should be helping those of us who are committed to upgrading it. Removing something decent and historic from our community is looked upon as just another punishment simply because we’re Van Nuys.

DON SCHULTZ

Van Nuys

Schultz is the president of the Van Nuys Homeowners Assn.

* As the executive director of a nonprofit organization that begs for money to present free concerts for the benefit of the community from generous individuals that Scott Harris refers to as “the big kahunas,” I am appalled by his condescending attitude. People who have money earn it --it’s not given to them, and they don’t have to give it away.

But fortunately for the citizens of the San Fernando Valley, they choose to share their wealth for the good of the community. The members of the Fernando Award Inc. are not “potentates.” They are involved, giving, concerned individuals who volunteer both their time and money.

Our 20-year tradition of free concerts in the park would not happen were it not for the generosity of the Dave Flemings, the Clyde Porters, the Bert and Jane Boechmanns, to name just a few. I only wish that I had “oodles” of money so I could donate to hospitals, colleges, homes for battered women and children, and other nonprofit agencies that are out there trying to provide needed programs for the community. You’re right, Mr. Harris: “Civic leadership is a beautiful thing.”

MARILYN N. HANKINS

Woodland Hills

* Scott Harris’ column unfortunately portrays the Valley’s most prestigious award for volunteerism, the Fernando award, as going only to the “big kahunas.” Harris implies that the award is presented only to individuals who are wealthy and politically connected.

Nothing could be further from the truth, and the article demeans an honor that is bestowed only upon individuals who have devoted their lives to enriching the community, often at considerable expense.

JERRY CURRY

Simi Valley

Curry is president of the United Chambers of Commerce of the San Fernando Valley.