Letter to the editor

Missed the boat

A U.S. court has ruled Spain has a claim on the Odyssey's treasure. ("Judge rules for Spain in Odyssey treasure fight," Business, Dec. 24). What nonsense. Since when does a thief have a claim on his loot, which in this case was a theft perpetrated by a conqueror 200 years ago. If there is a claim to be paid, it's to the people who were plundered, not to Spain. In fact, the Spanish government has no more claim on their "treasure" than Germany has on the plunder Hitler took from the Jews and others. Spain should be required to produce receipts as evidence that they lawfully acquired their gold and silver!

FRANK GILGORE

Apollo Beach

Rational conservation

As a fiscally conservative environmentalist (I know those words are rarely spoken together), I research environmental solutions that are currently available and cost less money for taxpayers. If it isn't a value in up-front and life-cycle cost, there is no reason to pursue it, and certainly not on a governmental property that will further burden taxpayers.

Although the Earth's temperature fluctuates and may be affected by human endeavors, it is not for me to say for sure. I do believe in common-sense conservation, responsible and respectful activities and building techniques that are both eco-friendly and cost effective.

"Responsible conservation" is not debatable, nor does it immediately alienate half the audience as "global warming" does. Perhaps this approach is less confrontational and makes it comfortable for more people to participate.

The "make green by going green" mantra seems to dilute the message and decision-making process, which is unfortunate in my opinion.

ROBERT SOLOMON

Tampa

Look to New Orleans

With a shortfall of money in the city of Tampa, maybe it's time to look at what New Orleans is doing to raise money.

Parking and traffic tickets have become a source of revenue in a city facing a possible four-day work week at city hall and unrepaired police cars. Motorists caught on film speeding or running red lights will owe the city nearly $10 million this year, while parking enforcement will bring in more than $10.5 million. (See the Wall Street Journal, Dec. 29).

It's not hard to imagine the millions our city could be making if more tickets were handed out for speeding and red-light running. Drive anywhere in Tampa, and there is speeding, red-light running or stop-sign running taking place. That explains why we're not a pedestrian friendly city.

LIZABETH CANTOS

Tampa

Nelson disappoints

I was disappointed but not at all surprised that Sen. Bill Nelson supported and voted for the so-called health care bill. In all my years of watching politics, I have never seen such corrupt maneuvering, vote buying and outright coercion and threats to get a bill passed that the American people have said they don't want.

If the bill is so great, why all the subterfuge to get it passed? America has the greatest health care system in the world. It needs some updating and most definitely needs tort reform, but we are mostly satisfied with it.

This vote for health care reform has nothing to do with health care and everything to do with power, money and control over the population. Nelson sold out his constituents. I am ashamed to call him my senator.

SHARON DIPIAZZA

Seffner

Why the difference?

I wish someone on the right would tell me why all the Republicans are shouting from the highest hill in the nation about the cost of the new health care reform bill, but they have never said one word about the cost of the preemptive war on Iraq during their watch? Please explain why it is OK for Republicans to put $1 trillion on the tab for a war, but not for health care?

GERALD A. CERVENY SR.

Tampa