College diversity
So, letter-writer Will Volskis doesn’t see the necessity of having diversity at our universities (Feb. 23 Open Forum). He asks how all this clamoring about diversity will help educate our young adults. News flash, Mr. Volskis, diversity at our universities is probably one of the most important things a college campus can offer. Diversity teaches our kids tolerance, broadens their horizons, and it’s a way for kids to meet other kids from different ethnic and religious groups.
Sadly, racism has reared its ugly head at the University of Colorado, which has resulted in some black and Hispanic students deciding to leave. It’s also concerning that outrage over this racism has appeared minimal. The school needs to do whatever it takes to ensure that black and Hispanic students return to CU to an environment where they feel comfortable and where racism will not be tolerated.
Gayle Pikna, Aurora
Immigration bills
Re: “Bills to curb foreign influx rejected,” Feb. 22 news story.
The failure of six immigration bills in the legislature clearly shows how out of touch Colorado’s Democratic leaders are with mainstream America. Even with other nearby states recently declaring states of emergency because of the overwhelming amount of illegal immigration, Democratic leaders in our state still prefer to lead by idealism and not common sense. All of the immigration bills recently introduced were designed to protect Americans in our state; but at the end of the day it is the still the American taxpayer who will continue to pick up the tab for illegal immigration.
The cheap labor that recent immigrants and illegals have been bringing to our country is being quickly outweighed by higher costs of everything from public schools and health care to social services and law enforcement. Even if we think we are saving a couple of bucks now at the expense of these immigrants, we will pay that many times over in increased taxes and a reduction in the quality of life for many American generations to come.
Dale Schmidt, Centennial
Springs cop killer
Re: “Springs cop slain,” Feb. 23 news story.
In 1995, Jereme Lamberth, the alleged cop killer in Colorado Springs, was convicted of trespassing and sentenced to probation (while still on probation for another crime earlier that year). On parole, he was convicted for burglary and assault. In 1998, he assaulted someone who had been a witness in his trespassing trial. Sentenced to six years in prison, he assaulted an inmate. Shortly after being released on parole again, he was charged with stabbing his sister – and is now accused of killing a police officer.
What is wrong with this picture? The alleged cop killer’s criminal record began at least 10 years ago and he looks young in his current photo. Could he be blamed for not taking the system seriously and thinking that it is a joke?
Charles Mitchell, Centennial
Public land sales
Re: “Scenic lands tagged for sale,” Feb. 19 news story.
With some defined exceptions, the U.S. should sell its federal lands. Apply the money received toward payment of the national debt. Said lands could then be added to the tax rolls of the individual counties. In so doing, the individual counties and states could increase their incomes from property taxes.
Lawrence Wert, Denver
