Curtis Sisk

Published online on Sunday, Jan. 04, 2009

Age: 66

Occupation: Retired criminal defense attorney.

Hobbies: Travel and gambling.

Bee reader since: 1975

How many letters: 15 since 2004.

Favorite topics: National issues and politics.

Why do you write? Having spent my career as an advocate, I suppose I still like to express my views in a public forum. Perhaps I can actually convince someone there is more than one reasonable approach to the issues of the day.

Excerpt from recent letter: "It is said neutrinos may be the smallest particles in the universe, so small they pass through all solid objects, including humans. ... With the real issues we all face, from the economy to health care to terrorism, I see the importance of banning gay marriage as equal to about 1 one-millionth of one neutrino."

Reaction to letters: I have had both positive and negative reactions. I think I enjoy the negative reactions best, but sometimes wish I could provide an immediate rebuttal.

Topic that doesn't get enough attention: Too many Americans have a limited and inaccurate knowledge of the rest of the world. My wife and I have spent months in many countries including Mexico, Central America and Eastern Europe. Many Americans would be very surprised at the different, but no less important, opinions those folks have of the rest of the world and of America.

Education: Juris doctor.

Family: My wife, Joleen, married 45 years. We have two married sons who live near us and four grandchildren.

Political philosophy: In the Valley, I would be seen as a little left of center. Perhaps not so in San Francisco. But I always try to keep in mind the words of my constitutional law instructor: "Reasonable minds may differ."

-- Compiled by Pam Rowse