Opinion

Letters to the editor, Jan. 30

TBO.com
Published: January 30, 2013

Significant column

The op-ed page piece by syndicated columnist Rich Lowry in your Jan. 26 edition, "Farewell to a True Gentleman," was a poignant tribute to his recently deceased dad. This testimony about his father's life was truly an inspiration.

It represents the importance of family relationships and love in a world of decaying values. It brought to mind memories of my own dad, and how much he meant to me and what he taught me about life.

Thank you for an important article, which was full of significance to all readers.

Barbara O'Connor

New Port Richey

Not GOP's fault

This is an answer to "Avoid Extremes," the editorial from Diario Las Américas you reprinted on the op-ed page of your Jan. 26 edition.

I hope they remember that the Democrats had control of the House and the Senate the first two years and haven't passed a budget in four years. This is not the Republicans' fault.

Paulette Spaay

Hudson

Shining a light

All 535 voting members of Congress essentially fall into one of three categories: 1.) Those concerned about a possible primary election. 2.) Those concerned about the next general election. 3.) Those concerned with doing the right thing for their constituents and our country. Interestingly, each of these categories is represented in Tampa Bay.

U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Palm Harbor, voted against the tax deal and hurricane Sandy relief. His radical positions do not represent those of his constituent.

U.S. Rep. C.W. Bill Young, R-Seminole, votes with the Republican party the vast majority of the time, yet looks for safe opportunities to join with Democrats. He voted for the tax deal and the disaster relief.

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, D-Tampa, votes with Democrats but joins with Republicans on the few remaining bipartisan issues. She is a rare gem and the area is lucky to have found her.

We can discuss later as for the hows and whys Tampa Bay has three very different representatives in Washington, D.C. As for now, let's simply acknowledge this truth. More importantly, let's all shine a light on the words, actions and inactions of all of our representatives.

Jonathan Michael Snow

Tarpon Springs