Experts Weigh In on Uses for Rebate

Re “8 Ways to Spend the Rebate,” Opinion, Aug. 12: Thank you for pointing out again that you cannot satisfy the appetites of “social engineers.” They always know better then we do how to spend our money! Add up the costs of the programs and you will see why conservatives reject the liberal agenda. Now, maybe if we just gave them our entire paycheck and let them decide what would be best to do with it. . . .

Daryl Stewart

Woodland Hills

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I was pleased to see the array of ideas for spending the tax rebate, but I was concerned about a glaring omission. The major problem facing the world and the U.S. is the condition of the Third World. One measure of this problem is that, worldwide, 29,000 children under 5 years old die each day from largely preventable hunger and disease. Although this number is gradually decreasing (from 40,000 per day two decades ago), these children are dying right now and will continue to do so unless the world’s efforts to help are greatly increased. In order for this to happen, the U.S. must lead the way.

It will not take anywhere near the total $38 billion of the tax rebate, but it will take an appreciable amount to get the process rolling. The amounts currently being talked about are not nearly enough to halt the onslaught of major diseases and hunger. This is a unique opportunity to solve the world’s major problem. For the first time the resources are potentially available, along with the requisite knowledge. Let’s hope the political will also becomes available.

Troy Miller

Huntington Beach

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My lifelong-Democratic-voting son recently called me and said in an upbeat tone that he had received his $300 rebate from the federal government. He says he has finally seen the light and will vote Republican from now on. After all these years lecturing to him, if that can’t warm an aging father’s heart, what can?

Allen G. Howlett

Fullerton