Yes, we have a nitrogen problem in our waterways that is devastating the ecosystem we all depend on [“The Nitrogen Threat,” Suffolk Closeup, Opinion, December 4]. Blame it on farmers, blame it on food, when farmers add less nitrogen to groundwater than lawns do. Blame it on cesspools, which do, in fact, add to the problem. But before we continue debating the new septic tanks for years on end — ripping up soil and plants, exposing soil with heavy machinery, and only for those who can afford them — let’s talk about the unnecessary over-fertilization of the ever-present, over-abundant, environment-destroying lawns.
We can’t stop eating, defecating and urinating, but we can stop the lawn madness right away without debate, without tax rebates, without poisoning ourselves and all life around us.
Suzanne P. Ruggles
Westhampton
Flag LegendsI was surprised to find out that the Betsy Ross flag is not an official flag of the United States. The case for the Betsy Ross flag’s legitimacy is one of inter-meshing legends — and it begins in Bridgehampton. Bridgehampton...
Insult to InjuryEnvironmentally minded Southampton residents should be concerned that “Madison Ave. Capital Partners” is asking the Southampton Village Zoning Board of Appeals for permission to build a long, elevated catwalk or dock across tidal wetlands at 1323 Meadow Lane — presented...
No Good DeedThe Lake Agawam Conservancy has no interest in being enmeshed in village politics or the next mayoral election. Sadly, the village’s and the conservancy’s joint Gin Lane wetlands restoration project, which should be a cause for civic celebration, is now...
MAGA's EndIt would seem that Ed Surgan was somewhat taken aback by the dazzling array of letters from his neighbors castigating his views on the current administration, his acceptance of the methods being used to deport immigrants, and his need to...
The Real TDSYes, Virginia, there is a “Trump Derangement Syndrome.” You need only peruse the episodic incidents in print of Ed Surgan to verify and isolate its local outbreak [“Worthy of Debate,” Letters, December 4]. To be clear, Virginia, you need not...
Many ThanksOn December 3, the Hampton Bays Beautification Association celebrated its 40th anniversary with a Holiday Luncheon and Awards Ceremony at Oakland’s Restaurant in Hampton Bays. Special thanks to Chairpersons Grace Daly and Madeline O’Keefe for arranging a lovely event. Congratulations...
Changing TidesAlthough my elected position as Southampton Town Trustee has not officially started, I have already jumped in feet first. In my short time visiting the Trustees’ office, my observations of the environment have been of confidence, encouragement, optimism and poise,...
False InformationSouthampton Village Mayor Bill Manger, his records officer and the village’s own Freedom of Information Law appeals officer owe me, another resident and The Southampton Press a public apology. Last week, The Press exposed the village for issuing a false...
