Both sides were at fault over the Holocaust incident at Goebel Center

After reading the article titled "Meeting tries to soothe anger over flier, class," I've reached some conclusions.

An old adage states that "Two wrongs do not make a right."

The Holocaust is a historic fact, albeit a most despicable, horrendous one. The protest/inquiry July 17 of a discussion of the Holocaust June 19, including obstreperous, disrespectful behavior, is also a fact.

It seems to me that the latter could have been prevented. The title of the presentation, although confrontational, was wellpublicized in Goebel Center fliers. Surely, those dismayed by the subject could have contacted the center's director, Andrea Koval, to request clarification or cancellation.

Asking a question that defies fact is often a technique used to spur interest. Considering such questions is also an effective learning tool. Sometimes these questions solidify one's beliefs by revealing the fallacies of others' points and often strengthening one's ability to refute them. Sometimes such queries do effect a change of viewpoint because of new information gained.

The generous apology of district representative Lizzie Benton was most appropriate for this sensitive issue.

None but the Jewish people can fully perceive the horror and cruelty of the Holocaust. Their sorrow and heartbreak continue to this day as they remember their own suffering and mourn the loss of their dear ones. Any public discussion of the Holocaust mandates representation by a knowledgeable Jewish leader. Hindsight is always 20-20.

In promising "this will never happen again," Benton opens the door for any group to stop discussion of other sensitive topics, such as the death penalty, abortion, illegal immigration, etc., simply by organizing a protest.

Such a result will deny the honored right of free speech. Courteous respect for all speakers and topics, including the Holocaust, should be the accepted practice at Goebel Center.

We seniors of Thousand Oaks are fortunate to have the Goebel Senior Center, a place where we can socialize and learn. The staff, under the capable, friendly leadership of director Ms. Koval, is professional, pleasant and helpful.

For Mr. John Bravos, whose attempt to do something good was so misunderstood, I feel deep compassion. I hope in the future when problems arise, we can seek solutions calmly and graciously, remembering God's words as recorded in Leviticus 19:18 "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." Barbara A. Warkentien Thousand Oaks