Mixed Emotions
To The Editor:

Several articles and news items that appeared either in the Gazette of July 18 or on the radio and television news media left me with mixed emotions that I am about to share with fellow Gazette readers.

I am elated upon hearing that the new Long Island City library has expanded hours. This new library is a haven and an oasis in the midst of a borough, city, state and nation and world in constant flux.

The children, adults and senior citizens of our area will be afforded the golden opportuni- ty to spend a cool summer reading, attending special events, using computers and learning new skills. The library is the key to learning, broadening horizons and spending time in a safe comfortable friendly place. Thanks to all who made this possible.

I am dismayed upon hearing that graffiti was found at the vicinity of [City Councilmember] Peter Vallone Jr.'s office here in Astoria. This is sheer nonsense and a truly nasty manner to spend time and the money of our city in cleaning up this unwarranted mess. In addition, our councilman, who does so much for all, does not deserve such ugly hostility and feelings towards him.

I am also dismayed about the non-passage of the [congestion pricing] in Manhattan and now our city will suffer air pollution, a lack of necessary funding for the construction of new mass transit alternatives and the transit fare may rise.

I am really appalled how politics played such a part in preventing of this necessary piece of legislation.

In times of crisis, our politicans must rise to the occasion and not play the immature game of politics and prevent our city from getting the funding it so rightly deserves.

I am also appalled that since our Homeland Security Secretary on the federal level said that this city is prone to attack, that no increase in funding for national security has been given. The memories of 9/11 must be fresh in the minds of all. Also, I am glad that more funding will be given to improve radio communications amongst police and emergency units in highrise buildings in our city. Communication is [of] utmost importan[ce] to avoid the loss of precious life and destruction in times of all emergencies.
Cynthia Groopman
Long Island City