‘Cool Shoppin’ Barbie’ Sparks Some Heated Remarks

I can imagine that parents and educational groups are angry about Mattel’s latest to hit the marketplace [“Parents Give Credit Card Barbie a Low Rating,” Advertising & Marketing, April 2]. Barbie, the big-time spender, will only be the tip of the titanic iceberg!

Surely “Debtor Barbie,” holding collection notices, will be next, followed by “Bankruptcy Barbie.”

When the situation becomes desperate, Bonnie and Clyde--excuse me, Barbie and Ken--may end up wearing penitentiary togs.

Anyway, Legos and watercolors offer many more creative possibilities for children’s play.

GRACE VAN THILLO

Idyllwild

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I’m glad to see people standing up against the Cool Shoppin’ Barbie.

Just exactly what are we teaching our children? How to run up massive amounts of consumer debt, just to “have it now.”

Back in the 1950s, folks didn’t use credit. If you didn’t have the money, you saved until you could afford it.

It’s almost un-American for baby boomers to pay cash these days. Consumer debt is at an all-time high, money matters are a major cause of divorce and family strife, and many households have both adults working two or more jobs just to live daily!

RICHARD WHITTEN

Lancaster