Reader TTS

Re “Galileo Mission Scientists Muzzled by Stalled Talks,” Dec. 28: Interesting that our brilliant scientists cannot think of any other method for sharing the “57 minutes of unique, glorious

data” other than “television lights, satellite hookups, press kits and public relations personnel.” Apparently they are unwilling to use the cost-effective Internet to disseminate the

information. Indeed, it appears they would rather withhold the “glorious data” until such time as public funds are available to pay for “their moment of public glory.” A reminder to our

scientific community: The taxpayers are not interested in funding media events so that you or your agency may bask in glory. The tax funding you receive is a public trust given to you only

for the new information your discoveries may bring. We don’t need a big party with lots of glitter to appreciate your findings. MICHAEL A. MITCHELL Orange With respect to the partial

shutdown of the government again, the second time due to the infighting inability and of our elected officials to do what they are paid for by the taxpayers, wouldn’t it be great if everyone

did the same thing at tax time and deducted two to three weeks’ income tax from their paycheck and refused to pay same to this irresponsible government? After all, this amounts to taxation

without representation. What representation we have at present isn’t worth a damn anyhow. EDWARD MULROONEY Alhambra As the government shutdown continues, let me submit the first oxymoron of

1996: the Clinton administration. KENNETH A. EATON North Hills MORE TO READ