Letters to the Editors

Laptop computers for officials? Just say no!

© St. Petersburg Times, published April 9, 2000

Re: Objections to buying laptops go only so far, March 29.

This article about buying laptops for Pinellas Park city officials is such an outrage on the taxpayers it's unbelievable! They already have desktop computers at home for their convenience. What does that have to do with their jobs on the council? They have a lot of gall to ask for new laptops at the taxpayers' expense!

If City Manager Jerry Mudd is "looking for direction" regarding this, I'd say, to use the old phrase: "Just say no!" I'm sure $17,600 can be better spent!
-- Mary R. Maisonnade, Pinellas Park

A prime example of government waste

Re: Objections to buying laptops go only so far.

I had a gut-busting laugh when I read the article about Mayor Bill Mischler of Pinellas Park and City Council members arguing about buying laptop computers. The mayor opposed buying the computers, but in the end he gave in to the pro rather than the con on the use of the laptops.

Here is a prime example of government waste. Heads should roll for passing the cost of these five laptop computers onto the taxpayers of Pinellas Park.
-- Mike Betts, St. Petersburg

Petty squabbles embarrass cities

Re: Judge gives sister cities good advice, April 2.

Circuit Court Judge Frank Quesada was quite correct in refusing to render a summary judgment in a case that involves a dispute relative to sewer rates and payments between the cities of St. Petersburg and St. Pete Beach. Judge Quesada said the two cities should grow up and get along, and I fully agree.

Tampa Bay is a paradise. Are we to be known as a paradise of petty prigs with our petty attitudes and squabbles? Our communities can be deeply cankered when we are loosely connected and have selfish, petty relationships. Support spells success! We need togetherness. Tampa and St. Petersburg especially need more unity and a cooperative consensus. Truly, these sour relationships should no longer be taken for granted.

We need new, creative voices to listen to, voices that will foster a deeper sense of connection -- that will promote social hopefulness, not destroy it. Our essential charm as an area requires charming citizens to enhance the national interest in our area. Petty fighting among ourselves just gives us an image of being childish and crude.
-- Robert B. Fleming, St. Petersburg

Official confused on what is offensive

Re: Chilly reception for beer at festival, April 2.

What's the story with Pinellas Park City Council member Patricia Bailey? Where does she get off thinking someone's beliefs are offended by beer sales at the recent Chili Blaze? What will it be next, vegetarians upset and feeling violated that meat was used as an ingredient in the chili?

Bailey should feel more offended about all the abandoned vehicles and used furniture littering yards in Pinellas Park. Leave the firefighters alone. They raised money for a good cause.
-- Peggy Duncan, Pinellas Park

Improvements at gardens impressive

I have just returned from a most enjoyable and educational tour of Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg. Two years ago I took out-of-state guests to see the gardens as I had done for years and was embarrassed by the condition of the whole area. Today I was nothing but pleased and proud.

My sincere thanks to the people of St. Petersburg and the staff and volunteers of Sunken Gardens for not only preserving this unique area but also for the immense amount of work that has been done to accomplish such results. St. Petersburg's residents are to be congratulated for their willingness to put forward not only the money, but also the time and effort to make this site a place well worth visiting.
-- Mary E. Maybee, Dunedin

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