Obviously, speeding on our town roads has many residents truly angry. I am one. I live on Roast Meat Hill just north of the curve at Stevens Road. During morning and evening rush hours -- I do mean "rush" -- one takes life in hand to be at roadside in front of my house. It's not a matter of people going a few miles over the speed limit. It is drivers who are operating 10, 20 and more above the posted limit. Many of them barely keep control when they round the curve, especially heading north. Once they hit the straightaway, it's pedal to the metal.

It is my opinion that, while some of the speeders are from out of town, many are residents. Of those residents, most seem to be relative newcomers. At least, I seldom recognize the faces of speeders while I generally see familiar faces on people who drive sanely. And it does seem that the amount of speeding rises proportionately each time a new development springs up.

Speeders are not just causing an inconvenience. They are endangering lives. Either they are ignorant of this fact or are took wrapped up in their own concerns to care. I suggest that instead of speeding, they rise a bit earlier in the morning (they can borrow my rooster) or move closer to their jobs. At day's end, they should exercise patience and learn respect for others.Home will still be there.

Residents who habitually speed should realize that many of us are fed up with their behavior. Perhaps it is time to put on the pressure. Shame them. Why don't we print up bumper stickers saying "Don't Speed in Killingworth"? Possibly the names of guilty speeders could be posted on Killingworth Today. I urge residents who are concerned with the problem to take down the license plate numbers of speeders and report them to the troopers.

As for those people who think that our roads should be widened and other costly improvements made, I have a question for you. Why should we change our roads to accommodate your illegal and inconsiderate behavior? Perhaps some of those who speed would have been better off not moving here. The rest of us would be happier without them.

One more item. When our first selectman had those yellow lines painted, I didn't like them. I have changed my mind. It does help keep the crazies on the proper side of the road. They were a good idea after all.

Sincerely,

Ed Ricciuti