Consumers must send airlines a message

Despite the pleasant experiences we’ve all had with our cell phone and television network providers, the aviation industry wins first place for negligence.

We had what was to have been a direct flight with firstclass seats on American Airlines from Chicago to Pittsburgh. We barely arrived, with a stop in Atlanta, scattered around coach, almost 24 hours later. Two consecutive flights were canceled without explanation, or assistance from any representatives, while other companies continued operations as usual. The terminal devolved into chaos, and while the pushiest individuals were able to secure spots on other airlines, we were incompetently told nothing was available. They even had the audacity to refuse any of the incurred hotel costs, citing nonexistent weather conditions. In essence, American made the mistake, yet left the customers to foot the bill.

In a country and industry based on service, the lack of accountability has been unparalleled. I have written a complaint to American and have yet to hear back. The airline essentially broke our legs and expects us to be grateful that it is providing us with a wheelchair.

All of us have flying horror stories, and for those who don’t, it is but a ticking time bomb. But it doesn’t have to be this way. We the consumers hold the power of the purse. I believe it is past due that we exercise our authority and boycott the industry, and for me personally American Airlines, until they learn to respect their customers. To tolerate it would be un-American. ADAM BARSOUK

Squirrel Hill

Whining about LCB

It is amazing that the issue of Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board stores is causing so much angst among the citizenry. Writers bemoan the inconveniences suffered if they can’t dash to the liquor store on a national holiday, in the middle of the night or on a Sunday.

One can only infer that these individuals have good jobs with paid holidays and other benefits. Don’t they want the same for people who work in liquor stores?

Privatization is the Queen of Hearts yelling “off with their heads” and pointing to the 4,700 gainfully employed state workers. If clerks, managers and administrators want to work, they will have to accept part-time, minimum-wage jobs with no benefits. They will work on national holidays, at night and on Sundays. All so the consumer won’t be inconvenienced by having to purchase their liquor ahead of time.

The new and improved stores may have cases of beer piled head-high and wines and spirits stacked against side and back walls. I’ve been in those stores in other states. They are neither as clean nor as well stocked as Pennsylvania state stores. The bottom line is always money.

Union bashing should be passe by now. We’ve all seen what happens when unions are weakened — wages are cut, benefits are cut and pensions are obliterated. And huge profits are made for the owners. Why would anybody want that? If Gov. Wolf has “the union’s back,” at least somebody

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in Harrisburg is looking out for the working person in Pennsylvania.

Of the top 100 problems that our state faces, dealing with the LCB is about number 134. We need to get after the Legislature to work for their pay. CAROL MOESSINGER

Robinson

It’s unfortunate that we now no longer have a major department store in the core of our fair city. I can remember years ago, we had three: Kaufmann’s, Gimbels and Horne’s. Also, we had Saks Fifth Avenue. How could this happen?

I realize there are a number of people who do not shop at Macy’s because it seems more pricey than Kaufmann’s was. I myself shop there only when there are sales. I feel our city leaders should have made an effort to get other major retailers to come Downtown to be competitive as well as having other options for shopping.

My solution is to bring a WalMart Supercenter. I think business would be booming and would be accessible to many city residents who rely on public transportation. I know it would never happen, but at least the building would be occupied, there would be tax revenue and many people would enjoy the convenience and all things that we know all Wal-Mart stores offer. Just a thought. HOLLY DICESARE

North Side

Trump is frank

Regarding “Trump Sets Off Another Storm: Says John McCain Is Not a War Hero” (July 19): I listened to the entire talk at the Family Leadership Summit in Ames, Iowa. Initially when Mr. Trump announced his candidacy, my reaction was extremely negative. But now having listened to his so-called rhetoric, I am convinced he may be the right person to be our next president!

Our Founding Fathers envisioned leaders who made it in the private sector seeking political office not as a means of making money but as independent doers of what is right for our country. Mr. Trump says it like it is and what needs to be done in regard to our security, our economy, education, trade, health care, immigration and so forth.

I will remain with an open mind prior to casting my vote, but let it be clear for many Americans — rich, middle class and the poor — Mr. Trump has our attention. I note, however, the article is not complete as to the substance of what was stated in regard to Sen. McCain. Mr. Trump in his sentence said, “He’s a war hero ...” Further, Sen. McCain and Mr. Trump have been feuding over matters regarding immigration. HARRY A. FLANNERY

New Castle