Gov. Jeb Bush, do not sign the dogs in restaurants bill. Here are my reasons why dogs/pets should not be brought to eating establishments:
In 1994, there were 4.7-million dog bites in the United States. Perhaps more now.
There were 333,687 dog bite injuries treated in emergency rooms with 17 deaths.
In 2005, there were 15 various bacterial dog-related diseases transmitted to humans, all according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Parade magazine reported in March that 10,000 Americans are infected by roundworms from dog feces.
The St. Petersburg Times reported on a 15-year-old girl who might need plastic surgery after a friend's dog bit her arm and face.
Why would the state subject me and my family to such diseases and injuries? We are already subjected to the above conditions when dog owners walk their dogs on my property. Why must I again face this when I go to dinner?
Sam Ferguson, New Port RicheySchools spend our money to help private tutors
After reading my children's school newsletter last month, I was curious about an article for a local learning center. The article was a very complimentary piece about the owners, their program and how they hire Pasco schoolteachers to instruct children in supplemental instruction. It mentions how they "look forward to serving with the schools to help students prepare for the future." It seemed to be a district-funded program.
I anonymously called the learning center and was told that indeed it was a private tutoring service and that parents pay $38 per hour for tutoring up to three hours a week depending on FCAT results that are to be released soon.
I then called the school to ask why more than a quarter of a page had been turned into an advertisement for a business. The production of this newsletter is paid for with taxpayer dollars. I was especially concerned about a conflict of interest because some Pasco schoolteachers receive a salary by working part time for this learning center. I also asked what district policy was regarding endorsing a private business. I asked if the administration and the business owners know each other on a personal level. I have received no reply for any of the questions.
It shows, unfortunately, how teachers and administrators have very little accountability for their actions. These mistakes, neglectful actions, and failure to follow policy would result in disciplinary action or dismissal in the private business sector. Here in educational la-la land, when a taxpayer raises questions or requests accountability, we get no response.
To make matters worse, I received a postcard from the very same learning center I complained about. It was specifically addressed to me.
When I called the learning center to ask how my name was given to them, they replied that the school had given it. Imagine that! Now I have had my privacy invaded and my name is given by the school and put on mailing lists to private companies.
Enough already, Pasco County School District! Educate our children without using my tax dollars for the benefit of private businesses. Leave my private information alone as you do not have my permission to give any information on me or my children. Answer questions when told to. Remember, you work for me and every other citizen of Pasco County and we are your bosses!
Michelle Leonick, New Port RicheyStory of Miracle's rescue was an inspiring read
How nice it was to pick up the paper and read about Miracle, the puppy who is living with Gary Franckewich, the man who rescued him.
How nice he is fitting in with Timber, the other dog, also. There are so many miracles in this case all because Gary rescued him and took him to a good vet who nursed him back to health.
Be sure the right people get the money.
Edna L. Whipple, Port RicheyMosquito board candidate is sugarcoating his bigotry
Re: Candidate not supremacist but separatist, May 3 letter.
This letter is in regard to Mr. Ubele's letter about his ideals.
Mr. Ubele, you can call yourself a separatist, others call you a supremacist. It all boils down to one word:
Bigot!
Heather Clark, Hudson[Last modified May 7, 2006, 01:10:18]
