Letters

Terrorism

To the Editor:
Barbara Olson, who died in the plane terrorists crashed into the Pentagon, wrote a book, "The Final Days: Last, Desperate Abuses of Power by the Clinton White House", in which she warned of impending danger to the United States, a danger that eventually took her own life.

In August, 1999, ex-President Clinton, without even being asked pardoned 16 FALN Puerto Rico terrorists who had bombed 130 buildings in N.Y., and Wash., D.C., from 1974 to 1983, thus sending a signal that the U.S. isn't serious about fighting terrorism. In her book, Olson cited example after example of how U.S. officials strenuously warned Clinton that pardoning the 16 terrorists posed a threat to national security, but it was widely seen as a cynical ploy to win Hispanic votes for Hillary in N.Y.

If we are going to pardon terrorists who murder Americans, are we serious about defending Americans?
-J. Hawkins,
Downey

Lauds 'Academy'

To the Editor:
Ref: Downey Police Citizens Academy.
I graduated last week from the Downey Police Citizens Academy.

The curriculum included, among other things, recruitment practices (only the very best are hired), gangs (it is a problem but it is under control), code enforcement (it keeps Downey beautiful), firing range (I tried some of the weapons), et al.

I joined the Police Academy to learn how the Police Department operates and how I as a law-abiding citizen could support those efforts.

I had a lot of respect for the Police Department before. After completing the Citizens Academy I now have also admiration for them. Their professionalism, esprit de corps and obvious enjoyment of their work makes it a very competent group.

I hope The Downey Eagle publicizes the Police Academy. I believe all Downey residents would benefit from attending it.

Having an effective Police Department is another reason why Downey is a great place to live.
-Jorge H. Montero,
Downey

Dislikes billboards

To the Editor:
I read the letter from S. Taylor in the Eagle on Nov. 23 commenting on the fact that Downey is going down hill. This person also made comment on the billboards around town that are not in English.

I want this person to know that they are not the only one unhappy about this. Why is everything in Spanish? What about the Oriental living in Downey? I have not seen a billboard in Chinese or Japanese - or for that matter - ANY other language. Is this not discrimination?

Also, a few pages after the Letters to the Editor I saw a full page advertisement for Cerritos Center. I understand that this paper has to get its money where it can, but is promoting shopping out of Downey a good idea. Why doesn't Stonewood Center advertise in your paper? I have also passed a shoe store on Downey Avenue that I have never seen advertised in your paper. Do they count on word-of-mouth business?

All in all, I believe that Downey will continue on its downward turn. Being a long time resident, I am sadden by what is happening and nobody at the helm of this city seems to care. What a shame!
-Doris Hannon,
Downey

EDITOR'S NOTE: Stonewood advertises often in the Downey Eagle.

End Letters