Real estate agents and face masks: Letters to the editor, Feb. 28, 2021

Contrary to one, agents wear masks

I am concerned about the perception that is being created about the real estate community. This, of course, is regarding the anti-mask issue and realtor Ben Martin. I fully believe in freedom of speech and expression. However, I do not want the public thinking that Realtors in general side with his viewpoint. I/we strongly do not

It is essential that masks be worn for the protection of self and the public. Maybe even two masks! It’s a simple thing and a gesture that you, as an individual, have empathy and caring for others.

Our industry is based on the concept of customer first, at least that’s the culture we live at London Properties, and I believe it is the culture of the majority of agents in the Fresno MLS. I implore the public not to think that we agree or adhere to this radical position taken by Mr. Martin and his attacks on Sprouts. Sprouts is a lovely store and they care about keeping the public safe first.

Mr. Martin has the tag of the “angriest Realtor in town.”. He is exercising his freedom of speech. His stance has no logic or science in this critical time in our history. 

Stop deporting U.S. service personnel

I can’t think of anything more patriotic than serving in the military. So when I hear about our soldiers, our soldiers’ family members such as spouses or children, or both, being deported, it makes me absolutely sick to my stomach.

Sure, there will always be exceptions, people that commit offenses that just will not be tolerated. But I do not see how we can call our selves American and allow one of our soldier’s wives to be deported for no reason other than she doesn’t have the right paperwork.

I’m all for doing things legally and the right way, but for those fighting for a better life for themselves and for their family, or who just want to escape an unjust government or an environment riddled with gangs, drug cartels and violence, can anybody say that they would wait around hoping that things will work out if they just hold out for justice to prevail, or would you take matters into your own hands and make things happen for a better life?

Anybody willing to immigrate to America, join our military, and serve our country is worth taking a second look at and fighting for, and that includes their spouse and children.

Arax column was divisive, not a help

I consider the recent article by Mark Arax (The Bee, Jan. 31) to be one to kindle more division in our community.

No, our city is not perfect with all citizens being tolerant of our racial diverse population. But Mr. Arax’s judgment by a few men in a bar spewing hate speech does not define our city. Also, his childhood neighborhood, where I lived and still live, is very diverse.

Yes, we are a work in progress as to accepting our differences, but I do not think as Mr. Arax’s article suggests that Republicans are so much more to blame than Democrats as sinners.

I am a subscriber to The Bee as I keep hoping they will try to be more “fair and balanced” with the news, but with Mark Arax’s two pages of divisive reading and another regular contributor, Andrew Fiala, it seems to be just wishful thinking.

Arax bravely spoke the truth

Great column by Mark Arax. He is a fearless speaker of the truth, and in today’s climate that’s saying a lot.

It is scary to know that so many believe in these conspiracy theories enough to act out violently — both verbally and physically. It’s a hard time, a time to speak out against the tyranny of extremism. We can’t “just let it go.”

This story was originally published February 28, 2021 at 6:00 AM with the headline "Real estate agents and face masks: Letters to the editor, Feb. 28, 2021."