Dear Editor:

In this world fraught with horrific news such as school shootings, the war in Ukraine, Covid-19, and a badly polarized Congress that can’t pass bills 65% of the population are staunchly in favor of, we can find some good news right here in Downey, California.

On Mondays, Wednesday, Fridays, and sometimes Sundays, a group of gentlemen can be found sitting on their chairs in front of Sunland Donuts, at the intersection of Stewart and Gray and Old River School Road. They verbally interact in a fun way with most of the customers coming and going from the donut shop, and in a microcosmic way serve as a counterpoint to the bad news we are all subjected to.

There is Roger, the “ringleader” who is “Mr. Generous,” and the well-known frequent buyer of coffee and donuts for customers passing through.

There is Dick, who despite some serious health issues is always affable and a paragon of good cheer, but sometimes has the audacity to be the purveyor of “fake news.”

There is Paul, the sports enthusiast; a walking encyclopedia of sports minutiae.

There is Bill, who is industrious, and uses his Ram pickup truck to actually do some work.

There is John, who is quick to laugh, and swift with a clever rejoinder.

And finally, there is Jack, who is quiet and reflective and never has much to say, but does occasionally send letters to the Downey Patriot.

Jack Russell
Downey