First Avenue cruisers are global warming polluters

An Aug. 14 article in The Gazette states, "Transportation single biggest U.S. contributor to climate change." We need transportation, but we can't afford to allow people to race around for the enjoyment of making loud noise. I understand their pleasure in getting outdoors in nice weather, but they are doing so at the expense of other people's ability to peacefully be outside. We need a cutback in loud cruising similar to the bans on smoking in public places and fireworks within the city limits. The majority of us are happier and healthier with these bans.

As you cruise down First Avenue, look up the side streets and think about how much noise you are blasting into residential areas. In a quieter city we could enjoy a few more days with the air conditioner off and windows open, conserving energy. The hard-on-the-gas-and-brakes driving of most cruisers increases both the wastefulness of fossil fuels burned and the noise level. Be a crusader educating against global warming, not a cruiser to climate change. Think of an energy waste you can cut back on today.

Catherine Kramer

Cedar Rapids