The state will review projects picked by counties

I am writing to clarify and respond to comments made by the lobbyist for the Sierra Club regarding legislation passed by the General Assembly to implement the $625 million environmental bond question approved by voters in May ("New Law Expands Resources Programs," July 8).

Under the legislation, counties will be able to designate $90 million in funding priorities. Each county is assured of at least $1 million depending on the county's size. The money will not be distributed as a block grant -- even though that concept deserves serious consideration for any future environmental funding. Rather, counties will be able to designate projects based on a menu of uses and the state will review each project to ensure both the recipient and the use of the money are eligible and appropriate under state law.

I strongly disagree with Jeff Schmidt's comments that counties are ill-equipped to wisely choose which projects deserve funding. As a chief proponent of this concept, I solicited input from each county on how we can best structure such a program. Many counties are already doing this by floating their own environmental and conservation bonds, and over 40 counties were authorized under the original Growing Greener to use landfill post-closure funds to pay for the same kinds of projects as this legislation allows. It is also worth noting that $535 million worth of projects will still be awarded by the state to address regional environmental needs.

Senate Republicans put forth the simple proposition that all who pay for the increased borrowing should also see some of the benefits in their communities, and that local communities, not just Harrisburg, should be able to establish priorities for some of the funding. I hope that even the established environmental community sees these as worthy goals.

SEN. MARY JO WHITE
Chairman
Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee
Harrisburg

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Tell the other side

As an Iraqi war veteran, I read with both amazement and humor the thinking of Sarah E. Mott in "Fox News Needs to Heed the BBC's Example on Terror" (July 9 letters). The discrepancy in attitudes between the people who only watch what's going on in Iraq versus the ones who served there seems strange.

No wonder the returning veterans, by a majority, watch Fox News and voted the way they did in the last election.

I like to see both opinions, not only one side. I know by firsthand experience what the enemies are capable of and what they do (the majority are not Iraqis).

But what do you expect from those on the left who told us that the Iraqi election would be a failure: They were wrong.

Ms. Mott should take her ideas to Iraq and sell them to the bad guys. She just might end up as the centerpiece of a one-person video, in an orange jumpsuit, on the Internet.

DAVID ZETWO JR.
West Deer

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She doth protest

In her July 9 letter, Sarah E. Mott critiqued Fox News' main newscasters. One questions why she punishes herself by watching. A simple solution would be to turn on CNN or listen to the BBC, both of which would readily support Ms. Mott's opinions.

Being an avid Fox News watcher, I noticed from the start of the London tragedies, each and every Fox newscaster applauded the courage of the Brits and reaffirmed the close relationship of our countries. Ms. Mott stated flatly that, in contrast, the way our emergency crews responded to Sept. 11 was a knee-jerk reaction, with the Fox newscasters cheering the event. Her bias is deeply rooted, and nothing can be said that will change her view of Fox and probably of the current administration.

Her political analysis of England not invading Syria or Iran is pure speculation. What would happen if the London bombings were directly linked to either? That is an act of war.

Ms. Mott should understand that several Mideast factions are dedicated to destroying anyone who is not of their faith or ideology. The conflict will not end until they or we win worldwide because the word compromise is not a consideration.

DON OPACIC
Franklin Park

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He worked hard

In her letter "For a Working-Poor Family, Hardy's Mansion is Revolting" (July 11), Lois Janke criticized Joe Hardy's upcoming house auction, saying he is flaunting his wealth. What of it? He earned every penny of that wealth and he is certainly entitled to do with it as he wishes.

I first met Joe Hardy in 1957, when as a 25-year-old I was building my house. I went to the 84 Lumber yard in Eighty Four for materials. Behind the counter was Joe Hardy, also operating the cash register. That he went on to become a multimillionaire shows hard work, determination, planning and foresight!

Also, Mr. Hardy has helped many, many people, towns and organizations with his money, revitalizing of Uniontown, Brownsville, etc.

Mr. Hardy is certainly a credit to America and does not deserve criticism by anyone.

WARREN E. SHEPPICK
Fallowfield

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In defense of beagles

With regard to Harriet Moyer being led by a stranger past a barking beagle tied to a house by a leash ("Dog Planet," July 9 letters), I respect her fear of canines and the kindness of a stranger. However, the example she spoke of had nothing to do with any real threat. Beagles are in general very friendly. They bark (or howl) to announce someone else's or their own presence.

Most beagles, given a pat on the head, will cease their bark, wag their tails and hope to get a treat. I understand Ms. Moyer has a dog problem. But any dog that is tied, fenced or otherwise restrained is not a threat. Beagles are a gentle breed, great with kids and fun to have around. I have never heard of a beagle making the headlines other than Snoopy.

ANN CIPRIANI
Jefferson Hills

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Many ways to work

As a conservative Republican, I rarely find myself in agreement with the Post-Gazette's editorials. However, I agree completely that Sen. Rick Santorum is misguided on the issue of mothers with young children working outside the home. And I especially want to thank the PG for mentioning something that has not only apparently been forgotten by Sen. Santorum but is far too often left out of the ongoing discussion on this issue -- and that is that whether a woman can afford to stay home with her children should not be the determining factor in whether she should give up her career.

I applaud the PG for pointing out "the importance of America remaining competitive by harnessing the brainpower of men and women both."

Both men and women have studied for years and are working very hard, day in and day out, to provide products and services that improve lives in the United States and around the world. This benefits their companies as well as the American economy as a whole. To suggest, as Sen. Santorum has done, that women with young children don't have a place in, or aren't needed, as a part of this vital process is insulting.

EILEEN R. SISCA
Mt. Lebanon

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Shame on legislators

Page B-2 of the Post-Gazette on July 9 gives a bird's eye view of the values in our society. The upper left columns describe Gov. Rendell's attempt to justify the huge pay raises he gave our legislators, and the upper right columns picture an honor guard carrying the coffin of Army Spc. Robert E. Hall Jr., 30, of Bellevue. Spc. Hall was killed in Iraq on June 28 by a suicide bomber.

How much was Spc. Hall paid for making the ultimate sacrifice for his country? Compare this with the salaries of our legislators. Now, Gov. Rendell, explain to me who is underpaid.

Our vote is our only defense against the arrogance and greed of our governing officials. Shame on us if we don't use it.

HELEN L. RICHARDSON
Mt. Lebanon

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Sailors revel in racing at the regatta

On behalf of Flying Scot Fleet 80, Moraine Sailing Club, I would like to thank the city of Pittsburgh and the Three Rivers Regatta for adding sailboat races to the venue for the second straight year. This regatta is one of Pittsburgh's premier events and it highlights our beautiful Downtown waterfront. Most of the participants have been native Pittsburghers and current area residents, including several top national sailors in the Flying Scot sailboat class.

We hope to enhance Pittsburgh's image as a fun place to live and work. There is a new group forming to bring high school and college sailboat racing to the Point in a manner similar to the outstanding programs offered by the Three Rivers Rowing Association. In fact, Three Rivers Rowing is helping them get organized.

ROBERT ZAVOS
Captain, Flying Scot Fleet 80
Regent Square