Critics claim that mistakes are still going to happen, that the bill will result in a bland, uniform script all guides must follow and that it would burden the city with another layer of bureaucracy.

This is not the case at all.

The bill is intended to make sure tour guides have a basic understanding of historical information, that the quality of the product rises to a reasonable standard. This has been done successfully in New York; New Orleans; San Antonio, Texas; and Washington, D.C. - all cities where tourism is a major revenue-producer.

People would be very hesitant about being treated by a doctor who didn't have a license, or represented by a lawyer who didn't pass the bar. Why not guard against wild tales of misinformation by the city's tour guides?

It's an issue of quality control. Our guides support the bill and will be first in line to take the test. What's wrong with getting our history right?

Tom Rosenberg, Owner

Ye Olde History Tours, Philadelphia

Justice Center parking

Re your article about illegal parking at the Criminal Justice Center and Family Court:

Every day, hundreds of police officers have to testify at both locations with no provisions made for where they are supposed to park. If everyone is to be treated equally, why are certain city officials permitted to park on the sidewalk around City Hall, why is the media permitted to park in fire lanes and on the sidewalk when they cover news events at City Hall, the Criminal Justice Center and even the Police Administration Building?

How about all of the illegal parking along South Broad from City Hall to the Navy Yard - when will that be enforced? Are the media and city officials any better than the officer who risks his life making arrests, then has to give up his time testifying in court? If everyone is to be treated equally, I think not.

Phil Bowdren

Philadelphia Police Department (Ret.)

Screen 'Philadelphia'

The film that is a must-see at the City hall screenings would be "Philadelphia" with Denzel Washington and Tom Hanks.

It's a film that showcases prejudices and misconceptions both social and political. Ironically set in a city whose motto is Brotherly Love.

Damon Oliver

Upper Darby

Cool it

It seems like the media are trying to provoke city unions into a strike by their continued emphasis on the fact that talks are still going on.

Leave them alone and let them continue with their talks. Stop trying to provoke a civil action just for the sake of "breaking news."

William Palmer

Philadelphia