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# Cheating is a mindset, not a device
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/cheating-is-a-mindset-not-a-device-editor/
- Published: 2007-05-09T15:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-24T00:43:36.000Z
- Author: Guest Author
- Tags: Opinion, Santa Monica, #archive-import

*By Marilyn Brennan*

I am responding to two issues in the May 4 issue of the SMDP.

First, the article on iPods being used to cheat on tests (“Tune in, turn on, pass tests”): If a child has not been taught by their parents that cheaters cheat themselves, let them attain their goal of being uneducated.

The second issue is to respond to C. Gerstley’s letter stating that the Santa Monica Animal Shelter does not require neutering (“Backyard breeding begets seething”). Since when? I adopted a kitten there in 2002 and paid the fee which covered the kitten being neutered. I did not take him home the day I adopted him, he was sent directly to the veterinarian, where I could pick him up (after shots and neutering) the next day. I was delighted that they took care of this important issue even before I took him home. I am glad C. Gerstley is concerned with this very important issue, but unless the shelter has changed its policy from 2002, he or she has nothing to worry about.

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 9, 2007.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/050907.pdf?ref=smdp.com)