Letters.

Northern Allies

Silicon Jack argues, correctly, that Washington should call the corrupters in Latin America to the carpet ("Democracy's Weakest Pillar," November 2002). They have. One of the Bush Administration's central goals in developing policy for Latin America is to assist in the elimination of corruption and to sanction corrupters. This was ex-Assistant Secretary of State Otto J. Reich's mantra from his first day in office. Lamentably, your article fails to mention the measures taken by members of the administration, such as Reich, to reduce corruption. Reich traveled to Nicaragua to show solidarity with President Enrique Bolanos when he was attempting to prosecute former President Arnoldo Aleman for corruption. Reich also recommended that U.S. embassies throughout the region deny visas to corrupters in Latin America so that they cannot vacation on Key Biscayne or at Disney World. Reducing and ultimately ending corruption will take many years, but you should be certain that the Bush Administration is addressing this is sue head-on.

Rafael Sanchez-Aballi

Miami, Florida 

Down from the Top

I am an avid reader of LATIN TRADE and find your magazine very informative and interesting. However, a major portion of your magazine is dedicated to the events and players at the big business level and their global influences. I would like to read about the challenges, accomplishments and players of small and medium-sized businesses, too. They generate a notable economic and cultural impact ... and are truly worthy of mention.

Jose Luis Orrego

Lima, Peru

Lack of Latinas

They shouldn't be called the Bravo Awards. Instead I would name them the MACHO awards. What about recognizing women in those areas? I am sure there are many well-deserving women who could have earned those awards. I hope women are represented better next time!

Norella Amar

Norfolk, Virginia 

The Best, Now Cheaper

It is an immense honor to have been selected by the readers of LATIN TRADE in the category of "Best Business Hotels" ["Best of Latin America" February 2003]. Our restaurant, La Bourgogne, voted "Best Business Meal on an Unlimited Budget," has prices adjusted for the exchange rate: Now, dinner costs less, about US$40 per person.

Cecilia Nigro

Public Relations 

Alvear Palace Hotel

Buenos Aires, Argentina

LETTERS LATIN TRADE welcomes letters. We reserve the right to edit for length and clarity. All letters must include city and daytime telephone number. Write to Letters, LATIN TRADE, The Alhambra, 95 Merrick Way, Suite 600, Coral Gables, FL 33134 USA; by fax [phone]; by e-mail: [e-mail].