To the Editor:

I had just finished reading John Howell’s editorial (July 26 Beacon) about how wonderful it is to travel to the new section of Main Avenue when a blast from a passing police car speaker system announced, “Isn’t that nice! Flipping off a police officer. How rude can you be?!” This took place on the exit from Main Ave. to Route 1 (Airport Road).

I disagree with John that the roads cause road rage. Roads are not live. People in anonymity inside their vehicles are doing the “I’m number one!” thing. That’s what it’s all about today. It permeates the TV, movies and electronic games. The most popular are based on conflict. Judge Judy is very popular because her “show” uses much conflict.

Recently I was driving from Post Road south when I came up to Arnolds Neck Road. A car was waiting to come on to Post Road. I sensed this person was going to challenge me, so I stopped in time to avoid an accident. As this driver came out in front of me, he flipped me two birds and as we came abreast of each other, he yelled out, “In a hurry to get to the red light?” meaning the light at the four corners. I yelled out, “Sorry, I forgot you had the right of way.” He then, unbelievably, carefully turned the front of his car into my path to keep me from moving. A horn blast behind him brought him back into the real world. This person doesn’t even know me. Doesn’t know I have done years of volunteer work in his neighborhood cemetery. He had several hats displayed in his rear window – I hope none were military – that would be very depressing to me.

The new section of Main Ave. remains to withstand the rigors of winter. I have read where the “silent” pavement final is still out for northern climes.

David Cole Matteson Sr.

Warwick