Arizona universities are not sacred cows. Arizona's citizens are being forced to do more with less. Our universities should do likewise -- at least $300 million more (15 percent) should be cut per year while improving outcomes. This would easily pay for any required new research facilities.
Lloyd Eskildson
Scottsdale
Whither Heather?
Public service: I am writing to thank you for the dynamic article about Heather Grossman as written by your staff writer Amy Silverman ("Paralyzed in Paradise," May 1).
I actually had the pleasure of meeting this classy, beautiful, dignified lady, her devoted parents and her wonderful children at a party on Easter Sunday. After meeting her, I was substantially impressed, to say the very least. I did not know of the horrible circumstances she has been dealing with. Heather presents herself in such a way that you immediately see beyond her wheelchair and are taken in by her beauty and engaging personality. Her interaction with her three children was a joy to see!
I think you did a valuable service by bringing Heather's story to the public. I believe that those of us who have been so deeply moved will find a way to write letters to and/or call our representatives, as it is vital to let the authorities know that people are very concerned about these issues.
Thank you for your important and most effective article.
Sheila Siegel
Phoenix
Rights Guard
Caught unawares: While I think it is sad that nothing was done to prevent a second crime, there is more than just that to what goes on with the mentally ill ("Murder by Accident," Susy Buchanan, June 5). Many times it is simply because we, as citizens, forget to take care of our lost children. Mentally ill people are often turned away from care, neglected or just ignored because of their aberrant behaviors. We continually ignore the issues that allow the powers that be to cut care and force more and more people to go without the medication and counseling necessary to head off something like what happened here.
The courts cannot, legally or morally, convict a person of a crime that they can't understand or even defend themselves from, regardless of guilt or innocence. Our Constitution protects all of us from that. If we start allowing people to be tried even though they are not even aware of the consequences or able to defend themselves, it will make it open season for everyone.
Remember, give away your rights and they do not just magically return. Don't you think enough people have fought, died, been murdered and jailed to allow you the freedoms you have? Or would you prefer to start over? Just a thought.
Name withheld by request
