Letters from Readers – June 10, 2010

Helen Thomas often expressed anti-Israel views

Re: “Helen Thomas retires, not a moment too soon,” June 8

For more than 60 years, whether as a columnist, reporter or press corps member, Helen Thomas never failed to utter anti-Israel writings and statements, taking for the most part the most extreme views of the Arab nations against the Jewish state. Certainly her recent pronouncements are not very different than her often expressed views.
Except this time, she added blatant anti-Semitism. Can one even consider her statement that “Jews should get the hell out of Palestine,” and return to Germany, Poland, and America anything but considering that the Holocaust occurred in Germany and in Poland?
The Jews now living in Israel have been there for almost four millennia. Jerusalem has had a Jewish majority for every census — whether Ottoman Empire or British — since the 1860s. The major influx were penniless Arab Jews, who were driven out of their historical homes in Arab nations after the 1948 war to destroy Israel. Most Muslims who emigrated from other Arab countries for economic betterment have been in Israel for only a few generations.
Thomas overstayed her welcome in a tolerant press corps. Her leaving will enhance the principles on which our nation was founded.

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Educating the young is a good investment

Re: “D.C. budget lauded by children’s advocates,” June 7

As a D.C. business owner, I am very pleased with the D.C. Council’s decision to expand funding for the District’s pre-K program. While many recognize early learning programs have long-term economic benefits, these programs also have an immediate effect, stimulating our local economy and creating jobs.
Research by the national business group, America’s Edge, concludes we can immediately increase the sales of local goods and services by almost $2 for every $1 invested, and lay the foundation for continued economic growth by ensuring our children have the 21st century skills businesses need.
Across the city, business owners regularly see loyal customers with young families leave the District because of the perception of better child care and better schools in the suburbs. The D.C. Council’s $18 million funding increase for a free, voluntary pre-K program for all 3- and 4-year-olds is a good investment for our city because it will support local businesses, keep families living and working here, and attract new families to our great neighborhoods.
Jennifer Zatkowski