Letters to the Editor

by the Readers

Defying Logic

Lewis Whittington is not living in this world. In [Slant, "Life Sentence," Feb. 24, 2005], he is writing about a world where there is logic and common sense, but this world isn't run on logic, nor is common sense that common.

Michael Schiavo (and others in the same situation) has an easy answer. Go to court and have his wife declared a dog. Then, society (especially the hypocrites who are so vocal and know what's best for everyone) will demand, not ask, that he put her down, since "no animal should suffer like that." With these people, humans must suffer, but not animals. Just as they are so pro-life that they will kill you to prove their point.
Andrew Kevorkian
Northern Liberties

Worth Less

I am deeply troubled that our city is considering overturning an ordinance that prevents the demolition of the Dilworth house, a property of unquestionable historical value [Cityspace, "'Worth Saving?" Nicole Sarrubbo, Feb. 24, 2005]. Dilworth's house symbolizes courage and a deep, unwavering belief in something greater than the mediocrity, complacency and greed du jour that too often defines our behavior. Courage and a belief in something greater than our own self-interests are unfortunately not traits of character abundantly manifest in our city. They are, however, absolutely necessary if Philadelphians are to resist a developer's promises.

The issue is not of the potential merits of this developer's architectural plan. The issues of concern are the underlying principles, the issue of political will in the face of economic forces. The fact that we are even discussing the possibility of demolishing this house and replacing it with another high rise is unacceptable if we are to attach any meaning to the concept of a historic preservation.
Richard A. de Wyngaert
Board member, Society Hill Civic Association

Palumbo Boulevard?

I believe it is certainly fitting and long overdue that West River Drive has been renamed after Martin Luther King [News, "Crowning Achievement," Doron Taussig, Feb. 24, 2005]. A person of his stature and legacy deserves to be memorialized in Philadelphia, especially with one of the most beautiful areas in the Delaware Valley.

I am not trying to make comparisons, but Frank Palumbo was a great Philadelphian and philanthropist. His charity for immigrants and handicapped children is legendary. He single-handedly saved the historic Philadelphia Zoo in 1939. He put Philadelphia on the map by bringing big-name entertainment to this city. There was a strong movement not too long ago to rename West River Drive after Palumbo, but it was squashed somehow. It has been mentioned that this decision was tinged with bigotry; something King railed against. Perhaps another thoroughfare should be named in honor of Palumbo. People like King and Palumbo helped others to have better lives and should be remembered for their contributions.
Peter Fosco
South Philadelphia

Correction

In the suit Anthony DiMeo III plans to file against Philadelphia Weekly [Fine Print, "Here's What's Fun — You're Getting Served," Doron Taussig, March 3, 2005], he is seeking at least $50,000 on each of six counts.