Thankful

Ron, be thankful you're not relegated to the parking lot. Besides, if you gave up smoking, perhaps walking a few hundred feet wouldn't be such a chore. CRAIG A. NELSON Cardiff by the Sea

Thank God for Cockburn. I've always wondered why Hess was shut up. Imagine, a man on a peace mission and nary a word is heard about him. Why? Cockburn's politics aren't necessarily mine, but I'm thankful that a few sacred cows and notions are about to be gored. HARVEY HETTINGA Ontario

My family and I have been loyal viewers of "Family Ties" and will miss the show very much. However, I'm thankful that we still have reruns to enjoy when we want to see the Keatons in our home. Lisa Bergal, Venice

I am writing to express my gratitude for the coverage that you have given the Olympic wrestling trials. As a former wrestler who is disappointed by the limited coverage wrestling receives in all forms of media, I am very thankful you have taken space to provide coverage of my favorite sport. Morris Bird Alhambra

As happy "purists," we were so delighted to read Jerry Hulse's tip Jan. 25 on the Cebu nonsmoker cruises. To also have it a no-liquor cruise is the icing on the cake. He made our day! We purists are the happiest (and healthiest) people in the world, and how thankful we are to learn that there are cruises like Cebu offers where we can enjoy them to the fullest. FRANK and MARGIE POST Pasadena

Making Siegel's "The Town That Lived in Silence" a two-part story was sheer cruelty. What a page turner it was, beautifully written and researched. Anyone who looks back on the past as "the good old days" has only to read Siegel's story. We who grew up in alcoholic families of that era can only be thankful "the times they are a changin' ". Thank you for a great story. LINDA COWAN MOSE Sherman Oaks

I just knew some one would find fault with the fabulous King Kong float. When I was 3 I had a teddy bear and held it much like Kong held Fay Wray, without sexual or racial overtones--just love. Next year, John, enjoy the splendor and magnificence of the parade and be thankful for the thousands of people who make it possible for millions of people, in three glorious hours, to smell the roses of enchantment. CHARLES R. THOMPSON Newport Beach