George,

As a long time resident of Charlottesville I beg to differ with Mr. Weinschenk in the matter of civil disobedience. The actions of the local police could be interpreted as illegal discrimination. They do not ticket noisy drivers in other parts of town with the same zeal (i.e. don't you love those who treat the whole neighborhood to their taste in music?) and therefore we could argue that they are using their power to take side in the infamous hotel dispute.

Sure it inconveniences the guests but the workers inside are even more inconvenienced by their measly checks. I believe Mr. Weinschenk is a member of the Democratic Party and also the owner of at least one local business (a car wash on 29 N) advertising low wage jobs in the best business-Republican tradition. One wonders if Mr. Weinschenk is not a bit biased in his judgement.

Meanwhile I will keep on honking and hope to cause a mighty inconvenience that will lead to living wages for our working poor.

Rob Tolleson (electronic mail, January 27, 2002).