Terrorism

Re “The ‘intifada’ leaves two dead in our nation’s capital” (May 25):

Great editorial. It makes me wonder, what is the solution to the extreme violence that plagues America? Violence that crosses color and socio-economic lines? What is the common denominator? What drives such insane thoughts and leads to extreme actions?

Is it the internet, video games, drug or alcohol abuse, lack of society morals or even more sinister, indoctrination in college? I wish I had an answer.

— Bob Waters, Laguna Niguel

Kudos, Susan Shelley

Re “ The California way costs too much” (May 25):

Thanks to the clear and direct reporting to the California taxpayers! It is a crime that the state Legislature has placed such a high budget deficit — $12 billion for illegals to have medical care. Medical care is not a right, it is a privilege. California has become a magnet for illegals and legal citizens are paying the price.

I am grateful Newsom’s term as governor is almost over, let’s get someone who is more fiscally responsible and get some state legislators who project sanity and budgetary responsibilities. It is no surprise that more legal citizens are leaving California, and what a shame.

— Ellie S. MacMullin, Pasadena

School choice

Re “School choice on the rise across country, not here” (May 22):

The biggest observed factors in educational success for students, over the span of 34 years, are parental support, and income. There is absolutely no need for school choice. Public schools already offer opportunities for students to learn in myriad environments, including individually.

A stable home environment, access to decent food, medical care and basic security in life are what students need to be successful academically. It is glaringly obvious when one looks at public schools in poor versus better-off areas.

There can be mediocre teachers in the wealthier districts, and stellar ones in the poor districts. Unless and until we as a society decide that our future is our children, and make the effort to lift them all up so that our nation can prosper, all the school choice in the world will only result in greater inequity, more poverty and greater profit for the corporate world at the public’s expense.

— Ion Puschila, Upland