Getty Museum

As the opening day of the Getty Center draws near, it is not surprising that some people, seeing the immense amount money that went into it, will assert that this money was somehow stolen from hungry children, or underfunded schools or whatever. If you extend the chain of cause and effect far enough, there is some validity to their complaints. However, Jim Babbitt’s characterization of the Getty purchases as “three old oil paintings” (letter, July 3) shows a lack of appreciation for the value of cultural institutions.

The Getty Center and Museum exists for the enjoyment and enlightenment of all people, and Los Angeles is fortunate indeed to be its home. The memory of J. Paul Getty should be forever praised for his stupendous gift to the public.

JAMES VAN SCOYOC

Los Angeles