Alex Padilla

Re “A Recent History of the Valley,” Jan. 2

It was appalling to see J.D. Crowe’s drawing of Councilman Alex Padilla as “the scarecrow in search of a . . . clue,” and Dorothy chiming in with, “You don’t need a brain . . ..” Padilla, an MIT graduate who has dedicated himself to public service, has used his brain to get a new police station and a new fire station for the northeast Valley. He has also used his brain to begin the process of building a home for a Youth Opportunities Program in Pacoima that will provide alternative education, job training and hope to young people throughout the Valley. And he’ll be using his brain to bring economic redevelopment to areas in need of improved housing, more businesses and new jobs.

Crowe is certainly no cartoon wizard. He should leave the Emerald City, put away his wicked quill of the west and visit the many northeast Valley constituents who have been pleased with the work of their new city councilman.

DAVID GERSHWIN

Communications Deputy

for Alex Padilla