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Gaia adds needed housing 

Editor: 

In response to some of the shortsighted criticisms of the erection of the “GAIA Building” at 2116 Allston Way in downtown Berkeley, I would like to mention some of it's benefits.  

As an eight-year resident of Berkeley, I have seen housing become increasingly scarce. Now we find ourselves in an actual housing crisis that has been met with little action.  

One of the few people who have risen to the challenge of providing housing to Berkeley residents is Patrick Kennedy. Though Mr. Kennedy's building stands slightly taller than some of downtown Berkeley's other buildings, it is by no means an eyesore with its Mediterranean Renaissance facade similar to other historical buildings in the area. The city’s readiness to work with Mr. Kennedy should be no surprise, as the 91 living units he is providing are badly needed in our community. With the influx of “dot-com” money and a rapidly growing economy, rent has increased at an alarming rate leaving many low-income families behind.  

Many important members of our community have been forced to leave because of their inability to keep up with this swiftly changing market. Given our current housing situation I see Patrick Kennedy as an advocate for improving the lives of Berkeley's residents by providing affordable housing, as well as adding interest and beauty to the skyline.  

Dina Valicenti 

Berkeley 

Gaia should be called Dubya 

Editor: 

Gaia Books is no longer in business so a new name is required for the building on Allston Way. I believe that the Dubya Building is the most appropriate designation.  

Just compare its construction with the Florida election. In both, an entity with a four letter name and an initial G was defeated. The rules were creatively interpreted and manipulated in both cases with some assistance from government employees and elected officials. And before any rumor starts, I absolutely deny that Mayor Dean is related in any way to Patrick Kennedy! 

Now, if only Mr. Kennedy can persuade Mr. Bush to initiate the building with a bottle of high arsenic water . . . . Bush in Berkeley? 

S.K. Sachs 

Berkeley