Tampa's Coral Reef

I was just in Tampa and the weather was nice, but it was the reef that left an impression. To be sure, I didn't see any water - except from the plane, but what I saw was a collection of nightclubs clustered together in Downtown Tampa. It's probably smart, because the city keeps revenues flowing 24/7 from office buildings, parking lots and night clubs. And since everything is so concentrated, they get to provide effective police coverage and promote competition at the same time.

So, about that reef. Well, to get there you'll have to pay to park, and then walk a couple blocks. On the way you'll meet people offering postcards to follow Jesus and others handing out coupons for free beer. (Talk about an ancient clash of good -vs- evil). You'll get requests from Cuban-Americans with funny accents (like mine :-), asking for - well I'm not sure exactly. Turn the corner and pass the pan-handler that just received a couple bucks, but is hiding it to request a few from you. Finally, you'll see a small crowd of revelers in front of some open doors. If you've ever seen tube worms on National Geographic Adventures, then you'll know exactly what it looks like. Each club puts out scantily dressed ladies that are eager to sweet-talk you into coming inside. That's as far as I can take you however, because there's no way you'll find me in there. I hear that admission is free but the drinks will bleed you dry.

Why is this little slice of America important to us? To the capitalist, it's a reminder that the free market will flourish - no matter what happens in the economy. To law enforcement it means more work, more hassle and a steady job. To me it's another example of what we’re fighting for. We are here to end dependence on foreign oil for all of us - good, bad and indifferent. As such, we don't need to judge each other - just come together and make a difference.

I thank you for your own efforts. Keep up the fight.