THE GOALS OF MITCH SNYDER (CONT'D.)

Mitch Snyder's reply to critics of his smash-and-grab tactics {letters, Jan. 9} is specious and reflects an ego-serving mentality operating in a risk-free environment to achieve personal goals under the guise of a champion of the most pathetically disadvantaged group in our society. The homeless desperately need shelter and care, but not through the mindless expense of vandalism against Metro and the D.C. government.

There are hundreds of vacant, unused shelters -- offices, homes, whole buildings -- that responsible owners could provide in return for minimal custodial and janitorial fees. Perhaps Mr. Snyder and government officials could turn his colorful and descriptive bodily function phrases into compelling arguments for providing "storefront" shelters vis-a`-vis building and repairing the damage that Mr. Snyder had the "responsibility" to direct.

It will take planning, cajoling, supervision, monetary outlay. But it will be productive, legal, responsible.

Mr. Snyder, if you will spare me statements like "property that needlessly threatens or destroys human life has no right to exist" and direct your energies to practical solutions, I -- and many, many others I'm sure -- will support you in sensible approaches to serve "our vulnerable brothers and sisters" (and salve our own consciences).

TIMOTHY J. KOVAR

Falls Church

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