July 2, 2023: A Collection of Letters to the Editor

The Unfair Burden on Motorists

Driving on New York highways and city streets can often feel like navigating the treacherous terrain of the moon. The condition of the roads is abysmal and filled with potholes, as Michael Goodwin pointed out in his article “Another Pothole on the Road to Ruin.”

Motorists already bear the burden of numerous fees and taxes, so why should they also be forced to pay congestion pricing to bail out the MTA? It seems unjustifiable. What do motorists gain from this arrangement?

The proposed pricing scheme is exorbitant and will cost the average motorist over $5,000 per year. This money will go towards covering the MTA’s inflated salaries, political favors, and excessive number of employees. It is unfair to expect motorists to subsidize public transportation that they may not even use.

Instead of using funds to support illegal immigrants, the city should prioritize its citizens who already pay exorbitant amounts to reside here. It is imperative that voters hold every New York state and city politician accountable during the next Election Day. Change must happen.

Joe Kowalczyk, The Bronx

A Cautious Approach to LGBT Rights

I would like to address Bruce Bawer’s recent article, “Fight for Gay Rights Hijacked by Far Left.” It overlooks the fact that being “ordinary,” “normal,” or “decent” isn’t a priority for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation. These qualities are subjective and don’t define a person’s worth.

Furthermore, it is essential to acknowledge that being gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender is not a choice. Sexual orientation and gender identity are determined by biology, not propaganda or persuasion. It is impossible to convince someone to be gay, and LGBTQ individuals are not a threat to anyone’s innocence or well-being.

I can attest to this as a parent of two adult children who have grown up around our queer “chosen family” since birth. They have partners of the opposite sex and have never felt any negative impact due to their exposure to LGBTQ individuals.

We should embrace diversity and allow drag queens to read stories to children. Our kids will be just fine, and their preferences will develop naturally, beyond anyone’s control.

Katherine Dieckmann, Manhattan

The Issue with Wheelchair Scams

Having commuted from Florida to New York for over 30 years, I have seen it all. There seems to be a problem with individuals faking the need for a wheelchair to gain priority boarding on Southwest flights, as stated in the article “Wheel ‘Fakes’ in ‘Boarding Scam.'” This practice is an example of bad karma.

As the head of the South Florida Airline Commuters Association, I have advocated for reserved seats, which would benefit passengers, management, and Southwest. Some Southwest employees also support this idea, but the company refuses to adopt it.

Even more concerning is how these individuals, who requested wheelchairs during the flight, suddenly run off the plane without any need for assistance. Southwest remains a great airline despite these fraudulent practices.

Steve Landes, President of the South Florida Airline Commuters Association, Boynton Beach, Fla.

The Responsibility for Subway Surfing

In response to the article “Stop Surf Carnage,” I sympathize with Norma Nazario’s loss but question why it is the MTA’s responsibility to monitor the behavior of her son or any other individual engaged in subway surfing. It should be common knowledge that riding on top of a train is dangerous and ill-advised.

Kathryn Ruskin, Boynton Beach, Fla.

Want to share your thoughts on today’s stories? Send your opinions, along with your full name and city of residence, to [email protected]. Please note that letters may be edited for clarity, length, accuracy, and style.