Arts much needed

I am appalled that the state cannot understand, no matter the fiscal crisis, that the arts are as important in educating our children as the traditional “3 Rs” (“Cuts in Arts Funding Deeper Than Expected,” by Diane Haithman, Aug. 1).They are enriching, civilizing and nourishing to the spirit. With the decline of standards in our culture and the concomitant rise of violence and near-pornography in entertainment, the need is even more desperate. I urge the state budget cutters to rethink their priorities.

Dorothy S. Hull

Santa Monica