After spending many years in the automotive industry, I recognize the need for warning signals in cars. Years ago these signals were referred to as "idiot lights" - little lights or words that appeared on the dashboard to indicate that your car needed oil, coolant or washer solvent, or that your battery was low or your parking brake was on.
Technology improved, and little chimes and voices were added to remind drivers that their door was ajar, their seat belts were left unbuckled or their lights were left on. Further advancements have allowed motorists to rely on computers to solve drivability problems while driving and to assist them in finding their way.
Unfortunately, modern technology has been unable to prevent idiots from leaving young children and pets in unattended parked cars, locked with the windows closed. This mental lapse and poor judgment knows no gender, cultural or professional boundaries. I hope that someday soon, automotive engineers figure out a warning system for humans and automobiles that would end this unnecessary loss of life.
-- Jeff Krieger, Dunedin
Dunedin has too many "managers' at City Hall
From time to time, I tune in to Channel 15 and observe the Dunedin City Commission deliberations. It appears to me that we have five elected city managers and one appointed city manager taking care of city business. In almost every discussion, I hear a city commissioner say, "I have talked with staff and . . . ." Very seldom does a commissioner turn to the appointed city manager for his comment. This must be maddening for the department heads, who have to explain to six "managers" their reasoning for certain actions taken. No wonder staffing of the departments is increasing each year!
-- Robert Tharin Sr., Dunedin
Clearwater Beach is a mecca for moneymakers
A while back, I wrote a letter regarding the progress in the city of Clearwater - notably, that downtown was for Scientology and the beach was for happy tourists.
Downtown still is a haven for Scientology, but the beach for tourists is another matter. Clearwater Beach has become a mecca for moneymakers and their ugly monstrosities. Is this progress?
-- Vivian A. L. Erickson, Clearwater
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