Civic Arts Plaza Donations

Re “Civic Arts Plaza Has Donor Deal--You Name It,” Aug. 30.

This article commented on “deep, deep pockets” supporting the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza. It mentioned how for as little as $50 one could get one’s name engraved in stone and made it look like a ego trip for someone to offer $500,000!

I find it hard to believe that when someone has made it to a position in life where they are able to give back $2.5 million, or a measly $500,000, to the community in a way that they think might actually benefit someone, that your publication would make them look like egomaniacs!

I realize that in this world of cynicism and sarcasm, some things are taken with a grain of salt. But I am offended when a couple who have lived in a community for 14 years and out of generosity have decided to give something back are made to look like they are just buying a name on a pool!

Forgive me if I seem a little too connected to this issue. I am the son of George H. Jones and Diane Jones. And I will tell you now that they have given me a love for the arts, and all they wanted to do was make that love accessible to the people of their community!

I do wish the plaza had been there when I was growing up in Thousand Oaks. I would also like to remind you that in your “deep pockets” article, one of the other major contributors to the plaza is the Los Angeles Times, not to mention Amgen, a company that has put considerable resources into the Thousand Oaks area and that I have had the distinct pleasure of working for.

My parents were lucky enough to be able to give something back that might seem excessive to some. I just love them all the more for it!

THOMAS D. JONES, Chandler, Ariz.