Tragedy at Texas A

While the rest of the world bemoans the slash-and-burn deforestation practices of poor farmers in South America, universities in the United States burn entire forests for a much more noble purpose: pregame football pep rallies! (“Texas A&M; Bonfire Tower Kills 11,” Nov. 19).

Although I mourn the death and injury of dozens of students in this stupid fiasco, I am also outraged over the sacrifice of 7,000 trees for this deplorable and regrettably widespread “tradition.” When will this country get serious about its own commitments to reduce deforestation and carbon dioxide generation?

WILLIAM O. STRAUB

Pasadena

* I am a parent of two university students. I shudder whenever a tragic story emerges from some college campus or college-related activity. My comments regarding the Texas A&M; annual bonfire:

It seems to be a terrible waste of valuable resources to cut down hundreds of mature trees just for a bonfire every year. Texas does not have much forest left, so where do these trees come from?

How do local building agencies allow a 40-foot unsupported structure to be erected in the first place? Here in Los Angeles, such a structure would not be allowed under current building and safety department regulations.

My deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the victims of this terrible and preventable incident.

SOL TAYLOR

Sherman Oaks