Roxbury’s biotech achievements shouldn’t be overlooked
Regarding David Cogger’s article on Cambridge’s involvement in biotech research (“BIO convention addresses health care disparities,” May 17, 2007): It is Roxbury, not Cambridge, that has made the most strides in terms of education and training for local residents in relationship to the biotechnology industry.
My September 2006 Urban Land magazine article, entitled “Incubating Inner City Biotech,” tells the story of this success which began at 801 Albany Street. Not only were education and training opportunities offered at this inner-city biotech facility, but breakthroughs were achieved in the treatment of sickle cell anemia and congestive heart failure among African Americans.
I have exported this Roxbury biotech success story to the predominantly Latino neighborhood of East Los Angeles, where an Urban BioMed Research Park is now coming to fruition. In Roxbury, Boston University Medical Center was the partner. In East L.A., the University of Southern California Health Sciences Center is the partner. The winners can be black and brown residents of these and other communities as biotechnology furthers its claim of being a leading 21st century industry.
Philip S. Hart, Ph.D.
Los Angeles, Calif.
Democrats must end the war in Iraq
Democrats should not let President George W. Bush and the Republican Party blackmail them into funding the war by accusing them of not supporting the troops.
The Democrats were elected to end the war, and that is what they should be focused on. Since Bush is determined to continue the war, the only way the war will end is for the Democrats to end funding for it. Not one more dollar and not one more life should be wasted in Iraq.
When the Democrats used the war to gain control of Congress in the last election, they signed a promissory note with the American people to end the war. That note is now due. There are no excuses for failure.
Elie Parker
San Leandro, Calif
Motley’s new gig more proof of new day dawning in Massachusetts
Say what you will, but there is some truth to the Biblical adages, “When God opens doors for you, no one can shut them,” and “What God has for you, is for you.”
Congratulations to my longtime colleague and Greek brother, Dr. J. Keith Motley (“Motley to become first black chancellor at UMass,” May 17, 2007). This worked out the best for everyone, especially for the students.
With the election of Deval Patrick as governor, and now the selection of Keith as chancellor of UMass-Boston, as well as other local appointments throughout the state, 2007 has proven to be a year of significant firsts for African Americans in Massachusetts. I do believe a new era has evolved. It is about time.
Yes, it is about time.
Jacqueline Jones
Admissions Minority Outreach Coordinator & Adjunct Professor of English
Massasoit Community College
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