No-brainer, no quarry

Right now, truck traffic in Temecula is one spoke of a wheel and, yes, big rig diesel trucks do go through the area. But when the quarry goes in, we will be the hub of that wheel, and all spokes lead to us. Think what that will mean to the area traffic congestion and exposure to ultra-fine diesel exhaust particles.

Some people are comparing silica at the beach to the mines' silica hazard. The quarry's silica hazard is silica dust, said to be as harmful as asbestos. Next time at the beach, throw a bucket of sand in the air and then a bucket of flour (as silica dust) and you will see what I mean. The dust is so tiny it can get past our body's filtering system and may cause serious lung problems, such as simple chronic silicosis, following years of exposure to low amounts of dust.

Temecula's annexation attempt would provide us future protection, because who knows what someone might try next. Many residents and people who visit the area love these hills and the clean air. That's worth fighting for.

David Shisler

Temecula

Planning to serve country after graduation

I'm a Chaparral High School senior ready to graduate this June. I'm writing this letter to tell everyone what I'm planning to do after high school.

During my years at Chaparral, I have been in a program that has really benefited me in many ways. This program is known as NJROTC or Naval Junior Reserves Officer Training Corps, a leadership program for teens based on military aspects.

After four years of being in this program, I feel that I really want to serve my country and to become a better leader. So I've decided to join the U.S. Navy. I plan on serving 20 years. I know that not too many people decide right away, but I know. In the Navy, I plan to be on the technical side of the Navy, working with battle command systems or other functions in the Navy.

I really can't wait to start this career because I feel that I have been somewhat prepared for this, being in NJROTC for four years. Well, that's all I really have to say, so thanks for listening and wish me good luck.

Christopher Sutton

student, Chaparral

High School

Temecula

Stop the flow of illegal immigration

I applaud the president in his efforts to authorize 17,000 troops to the Gulf area to assist in efforts to help clean up from the Gulf spill. Now, if he would just authorize 17,000 troops to the U.S./Mexico border to secure the border, stop the flow of illegal immigration, stop the flow of illegal drugs and give a damn about this country, I would be pleased, as I am sure others would be pleased as well.

I stand-by Arizona's efforts to handle what the federal government refuses to do: protect our borders and protect American citizens. I wish the government of California had the same intestinal fortitude that Arizona has shown in handling the illegal immigration problem. I can only hope that some day Californians will demand the same.

Thomas Read

Temecula