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More traffic lights would be trouble on U.S. 19

Re: More signals a solution, not bridges for pedestrians, letter, Dec. 4.

One of your readers suggested that U.S. 19 have more traffic lights. I believe it needs to continue in the direction it is going and be light free.

Many states that have highways running through them have pedestrian bridges across them. Walking won't kill you, but crossing in the middle of a highway will.

I live off U.S. 19 and very rarely do I see people crossing at the lights. I gasp when I see someone cross and not think about the driver who could be flying along in that hidden lane. Many of these who cross are kids who haven't driven yet and probably aren't very good at guessing the speed of a fast-approaching car. Even the adults are taking their lives in their hands.

I know when you're in a hurry it seems quicker to run across the highway, but next time think of the possible consequences of your actions.

Editorial delivers well-deserved spanking

Re: Fasano's DUI plate bill heads in wrong direction, editorial, Nov. 20.

State Sen. Mike Fasano certainly received a verbal spanking from the editorial. From all appearances, Fasano well deserved the constructive criticism.

I can almost picture him lying awake at night, dreaming up such a weird scheme in order to humiliate those who have a restricted license because of drunken driving and having them display a bright pink license plate on their vehicles with the letters "DUI."

Maybe we should be asking ourselves, "What makes this man tick?" What compels this man to concoct such bizarre ideas?

Whatever the reason may be, it is apparent that Fasano has never adopted the age-old position of "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

Bond with God's creatures is important

Re: Do as much for fellow humans as animals, letter, Nov. 30.

All of the recent tragedies have shown us how loving and giving we are to our fellow men (and women). Page after page has been devoted to how much help has been given to those suffering after losing their homes.

One gentleman in Louisiana is getting national attention for caring so for his fellow neighbors. He has spent all his time rescuing them. Many of these people found joy and some sense of home after being reunited with their pets.

Every moment we spend on this earth we should be aware of our relationships with all God's creations. This includes people near us and far away - people we can help and those we can remember in our thoughts and prayers.

We have been seeing how people care for those they have never met and these people will never know who has helped them. Yet we give because it is in our hearts to be kind - not just at Christmas but all through the year.

Our animals were given to us by God and as we care for them, they in turn care for us. This shows God our appreciation for them.

Their love is an unconditional love and we can learn from them.

Every day, charitable organizations give to those in need - the St. Vincent dePaul Society and the Salvation Army, to just name two - all the year through.

I helped the people in Louisiana, and my golden retriever, Kelly, spent time with me and the city of Dunedin raising money for the Louisiana SPCA. Many people worked very hard on this special project. These animals will bring great joy to their families when they can be re-united.

In my work, I care for people on a daily basis and many of these people who are ill find love and peace with their pets.

If we continue to care for all God has created, then we are truly living according to his plan by loving one another and all his creatures. Anyone who would not stop to help a turtle cross a road to safety is not very kind!

During this special season, "Heaven and nature sing."

Hip, hip hooray the artistic Tampa Bay

Ray Kenney, president of the Francis Wilson Playhouse in Clearwater, gave the introduction to the performance of Neil Simon's The Sunshine Boys on Nov. 16. Kenney, who was also the director of this play, mentioned that this was the 76th year for the Francis Wilson Playhouse.

When entering the lobby of the theater, you will see a large portrait of Francis Wilson, who spent the winter months in Clearwater between 1905 and 1935. He lived on Osceola Avenue and spent many hours writing plays and biographies. He was a celebrity on Broadway and a supporter of the "Clearwater Players," which began in 1928. Next June, the theater will present a musical about his life and career.

It was not a surprise to us to hear the audience rave about the play as they left the theater after the performance, for all the plays and musicals presented at this theater are of the highest quality. The actors, musicians, directors, set designers, box office personnel and volunteers give of themselves generously to make this theater a tremendous asset to the city.

We in the Tampa Bay area are fortunate to have Ruth Eckerd Hall, the Eight O'Clock Theater, Gulfport Community Players, Island Community Theater, St. Petersburg Little Theater, the Florida Orchestra and the West Coast Players to offer us a huge selection of live entertainment choices. Take advantage of this tremendous opportunity by visiting them this holiday season. You'll find yourself having one great time.

We hope that all these groups will continue to flourish in our wonderful community. We're very proud of our artistic Tampa Bay. Buy a ticket and support these wonderful groups.

[Last modified December 6, 2005, 02:15:34]