Letters: Litterbugs are a scourge
Litter lines the northern shore of Lake Ronkonkoma (May 4, 2005) Credit: Newsday/Michael E. Ach
Thanks so much for your article on the litter problem we have on Long Island ["Have you seen these LI litterbugs?" Expressway, Oct. 1].
It amazes and saddens me when I see the amount and frequency of litter. A few years ago, I decided to take a plastic shopping bag with me on my nightly 2-mile dog walk. Every night, without fail, I manage to fill the bag, mostly with plastic water bottles and aluminum cans. At least when I drive to work the next day and see cleaner streets, I know I played a part in the view.
Vince Reynolds, Hauppauge
You are so right! Litter is a quality-of-life issue that matters day after day.
I have adopted two sections of highway through the Keep Islip Clean campaign. At least six times a year, my family does its part. As we're picking up fast-food containers, beer bottles, and lots and lots of cigarette butts, I find myself telling my kids that the people who litter are lazy and selfish.
On a recent garbage pickup, my son suggested big fines or putting them in jail. I bet they wouldn't litter again. Sort of like when your parents caught you smoking a cigarette, and they would make you smoke until you became sick.
People often honk and give us a thumbs up, or stop and say thanks. My kids and I appreciate it, and it gives us fuel to continue.
Elle Shulman, Great River
