L.A. City College

My colleagues and I were very disappointed with the recent article by staff writer Sam Enriquez that appeared Dec. 12 (“L.A. City College: ‘Queen’s’ Glory Fades”) in reporting the unverified statement of a student that there were shortages of chemicals and equipment in her chemistry laboratory class. This statement is not based on fact. Although it is true that our district is experiencing some financial strain, we have been able to continue offering chemistry courses of high quality.

We recently obtained a gift of a nuclear magnetic resonance spectrophotometer from the UCLA chemistry department and this instrument was installed and used by students this past semester. Our students are given an opportunity to use modern chemical apparatus, including analytical balances, pH meters, infrared, ultraviolet and visible spectrophotometers and gas chromatographs. Also available for student use are several computers and software for computer-assisted instruction and data evaluation.

We have recently obtained funding from a state grant that will enable us to continue offering relevant, effective chemistry courses. What we need, additionally, is public understanding and support.

H.H. POKRAS Ph.D.

Pokras is chairman of the chemistry department of Los Angeles City College.