In this week's Mercury letters section, readers were especially struck by Ian Karmel's regretful look back at his education (and more specifically its cost). This is clearly something that needs more discussion. Check the comments section on the article for lots more action on the subject. In fact you guys just love Ian. WE love Ian.

Meanwhile, Jamie S. Rich is accused of tripping all over his own politically correct intentions by chiding the makers of The Impossible for casting British actors in the roles of real-life Spaniards. They're all just European, right?

And finally: Is the part of town known as "SW beyond downtown" being unfairly ignored in our discussion of Portland's street grid? Or is it just off the fricking grid?

These are important issues, folks. As always, feel free to comment on these comments in the comments.