MAILBAG:

Am I the only citizen of Costa Mesa who thinks that installing an active real estate developer, Jim Righeimer, as the chairman of the Costa Mesa Planning Commission represents a blatant conflict of interest?

Just wondering.

And while I’m at it, what makes Righeimer such a pillar of the community that he deserves a bully pulpit on the front page of the Daily Pilot every Saturday morning to subject your subscribers to his right-wing pontifications?

I suppose if this letter gets published, I can forget about ever getting a building permit approved in the city of Costa Mesa.

So be it.

JON ROWE

Costa Mesa

Thanks for the well wishes, everyone

I would like to thank Alan Blank for the well-written article (“Former mayor is hospitalized,” Feb. 25).

Trudy and I would also like to thank my friends and colleagues, especially Wendy Leece and her praying tree.

Looks like it worked. I am not out of the woods yet, but feel much better than a week ago.

Thank you again for all your good thoughts.

DONN HALL

Costa Mesa

Nominate local Olympian for pageant

I vote for asking Misty May-Treanor to emcee the [Newport Beach] beauty pageant.

She is a local girl, famous, and a good role model.

MARGO DALE

Newport Beach

True religion requires a sense of fellowship

Yes, Steve Smith, religion is good for kids (“Religion good for kids,” Feb. 24).

On Tuesday, the research included in the column about the advantages of children attending church is very encouraging.

But, he concludes by suggesting that those disenchanted with organized religion should practice at home.

Private prayer and scripture reading at home are important, but true religion can only be practiced in communal worship and fellowship.

If one is unhappy with their form of organized religion, there are many others who are not involved in lawsuits and controversy.

Youth and adults have many options in this larger multi-religious community.

Just look around!

The REV. DENNIS SHORT

Harbor Christian Church

Newport Beach