In response to "NASA tests new rocket for moon" (Oct. 29, Page A-3): With signs of a weakening economy and a growing national debt, NASA is testing a rocket for the moon, a $445 million project. It is government-funded.

NASA has done great things for us in the past, such as putting men on the moon and having the benefits of satellite communications, which took place in the 1960s and 1970s. In spite of its great work, NASA may be a luxury that we can no longer afford due to the economic downturn.

In my opinion, this project is wasteful funding. I think the government should redirect the money to more urgent causes here on Earth, instead of blasting it away into space.

Regarding "Gardener splatters cut grass on car," (Oct. 15, Letters): I couldn't help but laugh at how petty the whole thing was. If you're worried about your car, then move your car. It is your responsibility. Do not leave it up to someone else to make sure your car is going to stay all nice and clean. Especially when you had seen what the man was doing in the first place. The man who accidentally splattered cut grass on your car wasn't being thoughtless like you may think, he was doing his job, worrying about the homeowner's lawn.

What if the sprinklers came on? Would you have expected them to come out and dry off your car? Or what if the man did wipe off your car, but the towel he used had a little dirt and scratched the paint on your car? Who would have been at fault there?

JUSTIN YORK