To The Editor:

There are several issues which either appeared in your August 9 issue of the Gazette or that I have heard on the radio, that have evoked thoughts and opinions which I would like to share with my fellow Gazette readers this week.

The minimum wage is such a truly important issue that must be dealt with. I believe in a living wage. Workers who are on the lower spectrum of the scale must not make only $5.15 an hour.

With rising costs of rent, gasoline, transit fare, food, clothing and education, it is impossible for these people to make ends meet and thus many of these workers have to work two or three jobs. We must institute a living wage, one which does not economically discriminate against the lower-scale workers.

In addition, I am appalled that Con Edison will not reimburse small businesses for their suffering incurred during the power outages. This is arbitrary and capricious, and small businesses are an important part of our economy. Not only food spoilage should be reimbursed by Con Edison. FEMA should become involved.

Also, I applaud the National Night Out concept. We must not give in to criminals' whims and stay away from the beautiful outdoors on a summer's night. We must not compromise our freedom of movement and life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If we show our strength and power in numbers, criminals will not strike fear into us.

Lastly, I strongly believe that city council representatives should serve three terms and an end to the two year term limits should be enacted. Two terms are not enough to do all that is necessary to improve our city and its quality of life. To have all of the council leave at one time due to their expiring terms is wrong. I agree with [Council] Speaker [Christine] Quinn. I think that she is doing a fine job. Let us applaud our councilmen and women for being our mouthpieces and acting in our best interests. Cynthia Groopman Long Island City