The history behind the photo
I thought it might be helpful for your readers to have some background on one of the pictures included in my friend Tarmo Hannula’s article in the Feb. 27-March 5, 2026 issue of the Pajaronian (“Short drive, big rewards in San Jose”).
It’s been over 60 years since the Christian Science Church on East James Street in San Jose was sold to private owners after moving to their current location on The Alameda. The building sat vacant for decades until a developer bought it with plans to restore the historic structure. However, these plans never materialized, leaving the building exposed to weather and vandalism. The City of San Jose has since begun issuing daily fines for code violations and has considered acquiring the property through eminent domain.
Although the signage identifying this as a Christian Science church has long been removed, the need to dissociate the still-active local congregation from this symbol of urban decline remains, even as its members continue to pray for an ever-expanding expression of vitality and beauty in their city.
Ann Jenkins
Watsonville
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Trump administration’s remarks ‘words of madmen’
Trump says it’s “more fun to sink ships” than to capture them. Hegseth referred to the sinking of an Iranian warship as a “quiet death.” The President of the United States says it’s “fun” to sink ships and let people have a “quiet death.”
What kind of people are these? These are words of madmen, war criminals, who are killing people in the name of America.
Sam Earnshaw
Aromas
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Listen to community, teachers, students
I am deeply concerned about the direction of the Pajaro Valley Unified School District. At the last board meeting, Assistant Superintendent Michael Berman presented the District Goals. While several aspects raised questions, the most troubling was Goal 3, which emphasizes “trust building,” “inclusive and shared decision-making” and “elevating student and family voices.” But where is the trust? Where is the evidence that family voices are truly being elevated or that community input is being respected?
As part of the district’s LCAP process, staff and students were surveyed about the supports they believe are necessary for success. Students overwhelmingly asked for more social-emotional support and more diverse course offerings. Staff emphasized the need for stronger intervention support—particularly in reading—as well as clearer scheduling. Yet in December, the board voted to cut the very positions that both groups identified as top priorities. How can this be considered inclusive decision-making? Why ask for input if it will not be taken seriously?
At that same board meeting, teachers from across the district came together to advocate for the positions being eliminated. They presented the board with more than 1,000 signatures supporting those roles. Yet the board and superintendent did not remain present for the presentation. What message does that send about their commitment to trust and shared decision-making?
Our community, educators, and students deserve better. Listening to those voices is the first step toward rebuilding trust and creating schools where every student can succeed.
