Pete Stark to speak amid controversy

Oakland Tribune, May 14, 2004 by STAFF REPORTS

NEWARK -- Rep. Pete Stark is scheduled to hold a town hall meeting Saturday morning at the Silliman Activity Center, a week after the Fremont Democrat stirred up controversy for his hot-tempered response to a local veteran's criticism.

Dan Dow, 33, an Army National Guard sergeant who ran for Assembly as a Republican in 2002, faxed Stark a harshly worded letter May 6 saying he was "appalled" by the congressman's vote against a resolution on the abuse of Iraqi prisoners.

Stark fired back in a voice-mail message to Dow, inviting him to explain why he thinks he's "such a great goddamn hero."

Dow called local media about the message, which was posted online and played on local talk radio the next day. Rush Limbaugh later played it on his syndicated nationwide radio show, and the story was carried on television this week by FOX News Channel.

Stark later said he stood by the message, though he apologized for his "poor choice of words."

Despite all the controversy, Dow said Thursday that he doesn't plan to confront Stark at Saturday's town hall meeting.

"I wouldn't want to make a scene," he said. "I'm not convinced it's appropriate or a gentleman's response to do that."

Stark also has meetings scheduled Saturday in San Leandro, starting at 10:30 a.m. at the San Leandro Library, 300 Estudillo Way, and in Alameda, starting at noon at Bay Farm Elementary School, 200 Aughinbaugh Way.

Editorial: Stark's outbursts don't deter voters.Local 7