Letters to the Editors

Unmarked crossings dot U.S. 19

Editor: I have been a licensed driver for more than 55 years, and I drove 18-wheelers in the New York City area for more than 25 years before retiring to Florida more than 15 years ago. I have never had a chargeable accident or moving violation, so I speak with some hope someone will heed the advice I give.

What is the main problem and solution for U.S. 19?

There are unmarked intersections without lights. As this area grew, every time a new business, shopping center or subdivision was installed, a new intersection would be added. Now we have northbound and southbound traffic making left-hand turns into oncoming traffic without signs or lights.

I live in Beacon Square. When coming south on U.S. 19, there are many right-hand turns, starting with Trouble Creek Road and ending with Beacon Square Drive. When you leave my subdivision on Beacon Square Drive, you have three options: Right turn is south; straight ahead is east or turn left after you cross the median to go north. Worse yet, the south and north traffic each have four options. This turns out to be 14 options confronting drivers without one sign or light.

How many times have you tried to make a left turn across south or northbound traffic and had another vehicle also make a left and block your view?

For a fast, cheap solution, start at U.S. 19 at Tarpon Springs and go to State Road 52, installing white poles to stop traffic so only one side can turn. At the next intersection, let the other side turn. In other words, alternate at each turn.

If done at night, one intersection at a time, it would not take long and we would probably lose our title as most dangerous road in Florida. These being my own ideas, I will call it the Fay solution. Won't someone listen?
-- John Fay, Holiday

Smoking harms those who don't; amendment would lessen damage

Editor: I'm very empathetic to the smoker. They are not only addicted to tobacco physically but also emotionally. It's a very blinding addiction.

I say this because I have friends who would give me the shirt off their back, yet, they, knowing that I am extremely allergic to tobacco smoke, light up in my presence anyway.

I am not the only person to whom tobacco smoke causes a bad reaction. I know many people suffering from asthma. I've met a few that are so sensitive to it that medication is necessary, immediately, or they could die. I won't believe that smokers don't care; I know better.

In November, there is an Environmental Tobacco Smoke Amendment on the ballot. I understand that no one wants the government to tell them what to do. However, in this case, isn't it needed? A lot of times, don't you light up just out of habit?

Establishments now have the right to choose to be smoke-free or not. They have allowed smoking for so long that they're afraid of offending their smoking customers or they are smokers themselves.

If people vote to have no smoking in restaurants, bowling alleys and clubs, would that really impose a hardship on the smokers? Is it too much to ask to have you smoke outside, far away from the entrances to these establishments?

I'm asking that everyone seriously consider voting for this amendment. It would benefit all of us, smoker and nonsmoker alike, as well as children.

Of course, the tobacco companies are fighting this amendment because it would help the smoker save money by them not buying as many tobacco products and help lessen their addiction.

Smokers, don't be defensive about this amendment; we're in this together. I know that I would feel a sense of freedom. I could go out with my friends, dining, dancing and bowling.
-- Cheri Anderson, Port Richey

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