Now there is no drinking and walking in our community (“Deputy could have offered a warning,” letters, Acorn, Feb. 16)?

Without knowing the details of why he was arrested for public intoxication, I would like to applaud Tom Lynch’s son for walking to and from his party.

Thank you for being responsible and doing your part in keeping the streets of Thousand Oaks safe by not getting in your car while drunk. On another note, how intoxicated was he?

Eagle Scout or not, with or without a college degree, drinking begins somewhere. Many earn their degrees in drinking while away at college.

I am not judging Tom’s son, or suggesting anything about him, but I would ask this: Is there a problem and isn’t there another way to celebrate?

Perhaps the deputy did issue a warning, but you may have missed it entirely.

As a recovering alcoholic with 10 years of very active sobriety, I have met and befriended every type of alcoholic, from the street bum to young adults to the CEO of large companies. It is a real and deadly illness that starts out as fun, a rite of passage, parties with friends, wine at home, drinks with dinner—I could go on and on.

Sometimes we discover things by the mishaps in our lives. While I was never arrested for activities related to my drinking, I did get upset and embarrassed by my actions both while sober and while under the influence.

Yes, on occasion there were financial implications. To Tom Lynch and his son I would encourage a watchful eye over what may appear to be normal drinking. I was a normal drinker all the way up until the time I discovered I wasn’t.

To the Thousand Oaks police and Ventura County sheriff, thank you for your watchful eye, and while not every decision you make is the right one I trust that you are doing your job.

I have heard many grateful sober men and woman say they wish they could personally thank their arresting officer.

“Given the season”? It’s always drinking season. Life is better without the alcohol.

Wendy Brant
Thousand Oaks