Rank Intimidation and Schoolyard Bullies

May 12, 2004

Dear Editor,

Thank you for pointing out the information item on the City Council's agenda recommending stricter oversight of the Pico "Youth" Center.(“Funding for Youth Center in Jeopardy,” May 11, 2004)

It seems that everyone in the city has been aware for years that this "community" organization is a sham front for Oscar De La Torre's personal political agenda and that our City leaders have been intimidated by his frequent playing of the race card. It's also well known that not all of the community youth are welcome at this facility.

It's about time that the City stood up against this rank intimidation by his Moms for Oscar pressure group and pulled De La Torre's free ride.

That's one guy's opinion.

Neil Cohen
Santa Monica

May 12, 2004

Dear Editor,

I'm terribly sorry that some of our City Council people feel that the CEPS petition was equivalent of "school yard bullies," but perhaps they'd feel differently if they had children going through SMMUSD. (“School Funding Agreement Scales Final Hurdle,” may 12, 2004)

We personally know some of the "budget cuts" of last year! I realize that school funding is traditionally from state funding, however, we cannot let this group of school children Kindergarten - 12th grade lose out on an education.

Perhaps they don't realize that the house prices in Santa Monica have gone through the roof !!! People don't buy houses if the neighborhood schools are inferior.

I personally am keeping score of the "sour grapes" council people and will cast my votes at the ballot box accordingly.