Regarding “Despite objections from animal rights activists, city accepts $150,000 to promote controversial rodeo” (November 1): Thanks for reporting on the San Diego Tourism Marketing District’s decision to allocate $150,000 in public funds to the Padres for next year’s rodeo.

I was surprised to learn a few things from this decision. First, the Padres, a multibillion-dollar organization, apparently need financial help to market an event they already sell tickets for, whether or not it’s public money.

Second, when asked about actions to protect animal welfare, the Padres placed the blame squarely on rodeo organizers, who say the animals are well-treated. Yet at the same meeting, video evidence revealed instances of animal injuries at this year’s rodeo.

-Cece Smith, Tierrasanta