Editorial Discretion and Surprising Tone

June 18, 2002

Dear Editor:

I was very disappointed with your publication of William Bolte's flagrantly anti-Semitic letter "Call a Spade a Spade," June 18. While Mr. Bolte is entitled to his opinion, you are entitled to exercise the editorial discretion not to publish it. Indeed, virtually every responsible newspaper and magazine has a written policy not to publish offensive material such as Mr. Bolte's letter.

You provide a great service to our community in keeping us all informed of the ongoing developments that affect us. I would strongly recommend that you review your policies and procedures concerning the publication of letters so that we are not subjected to any more racist diatribes from Mr. Bolte or anybody else.

Michael Cohen

June 12, 2002

Dear Editor,

I am a student at UCSB and was a friend to Nick and Chris who were killed by
David Attias. As I searched the web today for articles pertaining to the guilt
of David Attias I came across your column (WHAT I SAY: "Grief Enough to Go Around," April 26, 2002).

At first glance I was worried about what it was leading to but was surprised at the tone your article took. For the first time in what has seemed like an eternity your article did not place blame but asked the question "Why?"

You refer to grown-ups and what they can do? It was a breath of fresh air. Something needs to be done to stop the reckless behavior that has crept up unchecked by adults.

Thank you for your article, I plan on sharing it with my friends during this difficult time.