Local news: Now it's cross-sound ferries and water resevoir dams as potential terrorist targets. Everything and everybody will be guarded every which way we are assured. Just in case,I'm thinking of making up a t-shirt with something like "I'm not a terrorist, I live here" or maybe CIVILIAN in big block letters.

There is apparently an acute shortage of security guards and baby sitters for New Years Eve. Babysitters charging $50-75.00 an hour-and getting it. A guy I know will be paid $3500 for the night to supervise a security staff of five at a private black tie soiree'.

FWIW, the local news media has always been a little anxious about "our" image. They proudly announce such statistics as earthquake severity and national ratings for traffic congestion as evidence of...something. (sigh)

-- Greg Lawrence (hammerforge@hotmail.com), December 28, 1999

Answers

Hey Greg, at least people are thinking about the issues, even if it does seem to be a bit overdone. In my neck of the woods, the only public debate is over the stupid outdoor party the town plans to throw at rollover time. Not ONE WORD about being ready or concerned... for anything.

-- Irving (irvingf@myremarq.com), December 28, 1999.