To the editor:

In a time of severe economic pressures, outrageous taxes, a bloated City budget, underperforming schools and within minutes of discussing  $1.3 million in reductions of the Commonwealths contribution to the city, the Alexandria City Council voted to spend $30,000 on iPods, key chains and other gifts to encourage people to participate in the U.S. Census.
As long as its Christmas, Id like a pony.
Bud Miller
Alexandria Taxpayers United