To the Editor

In “Hipsters, Hard Times” (July 30), about the changing face of the South Bronx, one of the subjects of the article, Taisha Pearson, says that there are shootings “All the time. Even in broad daylight.”

The Bronx does have problems, and Ms. Pearson’s own personal tragedy is grim testament to continuing crime in our neighborhood. But no New York neighborhood is crime-free. I feel the South Bronx is a safe place to live.

I am a senior citizen who moved from the Upper West Side to Mott Haven, in the South Bronx, nearly 10 years ago, and I don’t regret it for a minute. In all my time here I have never experienced a bad incident.

Up here in “SoBro” we live in a stoop culture. The neighbors hang out in front of their houses and actually talk to one another. I find a more friendly and supportive environment here than on the Upper West Side.

The Police Department could help push down crime in our neighborhood by carrying out more foot patrols and bicycle ride-bys. We seldom see the police except when they drive by at high speed. If they make their presence felt, crime will go down.

Do you hear us, Police Commissioner?

Sam Oglesby
Mott Haven, the Bronx

Why is it they only ever interview the drivers for these gas price stories? Wouldn’t it be interesting to talk to some of us, who like most other New Yorkers, don’t even own a car?

We could say stuff like, “Gas prices, who cares? Eat your heart out America!”