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Re: Belleair voters reject power plan, story, Nov. 9.
Belleair Mayor George Mariani said in the Nov. 9 St. Petersburg Times: "I feel the town missed a great opportunity. I don't feel they had the opportunity to hear the truth, but they voted, and that's the way things are."
Is His Royal Highness Mariani ruler of the Duchy of Belleair (to quote Joe Burdette and his writings in past issues of the Belleair Bee) to think that we, its residents, do not know how to read or make up our minds when it comes to the big issues, and that only he and his elite circle know what's best for us peons?
He forgets that it is not "power to the people," but "power in the people," to quote Burdette again. It is we who elect the mayor and commissioners, and we who can throw them out of office come March, when two commissioners are up for re-election.
Now that we the people of Belleair have spoken loudly with a "no" vote on Belleair getting into the electric business, that should be a warning to this commission that we want a long-term franchise with Progress Energy, and that we do not want to go through this process again in 10 or 15 years. Our voice and our vote should tell you that you should automatically sign a 30-year contract ASAP.
We do not want the town to squander valuable money in the future that could be used for in-house repairs. The town fought a noble battle - but at what cost? - to prove that what was written in a contract with the power company in 1971 was cast in stone, but when it came down to the nitty-gritty, we the people, with power in our hands, voted "no." The Nov. 8 vote should be as binding on this and any future commission as is our Declaration of Independence.
Re: Woman dragged in tussle for purse, story, Nov. 8.
Having your purse snatched can be a frightening experience for any woman, no matter her age, although the impact of 78-year-old Mona C. Miller's horrific experience will more than likely take an emotional toll.
It is really too bad that Miller didn't give in to the thug, who brazenly snatched her purse away in broad daylight. If she had, she would not be laid up with a fractured pelvis, facing several weeks of rehabilitation.
The thought of anyone preying upon an innocent elderly woman is enough to make anyone angry. Even though Miller did try, she was defenseless. My hope is that this dishonest Joe will be caught and brought to justice. After some jail time, some community service - like tending to the needs of seniors - would be good for his soul. Let us hope that the judge will not go too easy on this guy.
Re: Woman dragged in tussle for purse, story, Nov. 8.
This story is yet another one that is frightening to us older folks. This type of crime, along with home invasions, targets the elderly, who are more vulnerable.
I shop at Publix and have always availed myself of the takeout service. Having someone accompany you to your car with your groceries is a big help and protection from a purse snatcher.
Re: Woman dragged in tussle for purse, story, Nov. 8.
After reading about the recent shopping cart purse snatching, I would like to share my practice regarding security.
I always, without fail, attach the child safety belt in the shopping cart to the strap of my purse. I do this automatically. It remains attached from the time I leave the car to enter the store until I return to the car. I then place the purse in the car before unloading any purchases.
Of course, this is not a 100 percent guarantee, only a 100 percent deterrent. I hope this suggestion helps prevent any further trauma, both physical and emotional.