My wife and I were among those riding the Yellow Line train that derailed outside the CTA’s Howard Street station two Thursdays ago. We are extremely grateful to the compassionate Chicago Fire Department personnel who patiently got us off the train to safety.
Unfortunately, I can’t say the same for the CTA. When the train went off the rails, about a dozen employees gathered nearby but seemingly had no idea what to do. Worse, we were sitting in a now-un-air-conditioned train for the better part of an hour on a hot day. One employee argued when we opened the train doors for air. Thankfully, he relented.
Once we got to the ground, there was total confusion. When we asked at least three bus drivers if they were driving the Yellow Line shuttle, we were told only, “I’m waiting for instructions.”
I believe CTA management failed us. Given the time of day and the centrality of the station to the CTA’s system, there should have been senior leadership on the scene to direct employees. There was almost no communication, to employees or riders. There should have been a plan.
We are very grateful that no one was injured. We just wish the CTA had been better prepared.
CTA leaders should use this for future training.
— James McGowan, Skokie
Why historical preservation matters
Every year in May, the preservation community celebrates National Historic Preservation Month.
Chicago stands as one of the most architecturally significant cities in the world — the birthplace of the modern skyscraper — and continues to be a hub of innovation in design and engineering for generations. Historic preservation does more than honor the past; it strengthens neighborhoods and fuels local economies. By supporting tourism, attracting businesses and fostering vibrant communities, preserved spaces become places where people want to live, shop and work. When we restore historic landmarks such as the Chicago Water Tower, Muddy Waters’ home, the Pullman National Historic Park, Emmett Till’s home and the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, we safeguard more than structures — we preserve the stories and legacy of local and national significant architecture, culture and progress.
Protecting these landmarks requires collaboration among civic leaders, developers, property owners, architects, preservationists and engaged citizens. By committing to preservation today, we ensure that future generations can experience Chicago’s rich history — not just in publications but through the buildings that shape its beautiful skyline and all communities.
— Edward I. Torrez, preservation architect, Arda Design Chicago, and trustee (ex-officio), National Trust for Historic Preservation
Women in the Catholic Church
Regarding the letter (“The voice of Catholic women,” April 25) that women are considered second-class citizens and have no room nor voice in the Catholic Church: The Catholic Church teaches that its restriction of ordained ministry to men is not meant to demean women but is an adherence to Scripture, tradition and Christ’s example, who chose only men as his apostles. It is based on the belief that the priest acts in the person of Christ who was male. In addition, the Catholic Church believes it does not have the authority to ordain woman due to its commitment to following the design of Christ in establishing the priesthood.
While women cannot be ordained as priests or deacons, they are not forbidden from teaching the faith as theologians, catechists and scholars. And yes, some will see that as discrimination, even when that is not the intention.
And yes, many object to what the church teaches regarding women’s health and place in a family. These restrictions are related to Scripture, to the core beliefs based on those Scriptures. They may not be popular today and are too often misconstrued, either on purpose or due to a lack of knowing the purpose.
I have often wondered what would happen if someone wanted to belong to the Chicago Cubs but dictated which rules they would like or follow.
— Maureen Cosentino, Niles, Michigan
Memories of traveling Route 66
Thanks to photojournalist E. Jason Wambsgans and reporter Jonathan Bullington (“Icon of America,” April 26) for bringing back memories of our two journeys across the entire length of Route 66. We did it several years apart, following different historical alignments of the route. We took our time, visiting many of the attractions and taking side trips along the way. The most magical part was through Arizona and the Mojave Desert.
In Oro Grande, California, we stopped at the Bottle Tree Ranch. While we were looking, Elmer Long came out to greet us and tell us about his years of collecting. He was a gentle, warm, immediately likable soul.
Five years later, we drove Route 66 again and stopped at the Bottle Tree Ranch again, only to learn that Elmer had died. It was like we lost a dear friend.
Rest in peace, Elmer. We hope there are bottles for you up on high.
— Joe Paszczyk, Chicago
Make Cubs games accessible
Our long Midwest winter is over, and it’s baseball season — our national pastime. Unfortunately, Cubs fans are waking up to the reality that watching those games for free, which generations of Americans did, has abruptly come to an end. Now, we must upgrade our packages with Xfinity or we can subscribe to the Marquee Sports Network.
Many people can absorb this extra cost. But in recognition of the many who can’t and who certainly can’t afford to purchase Cubs tickets, this is an injustice.
Daily, we are reminded of the growth in the income gap in our country. President Donald Trump’s tariffs and the war in Iran have added more financial burden to Americans. Billionaires are threatening to leave California if they are taxed, leaving a greater tax burden to ordinary Americans. Fixing all of this is overwhelming, but could we just take a small step to reduce inequality by allowing all people, regardless of means, to watch the Cubs?
So, I appeal to the Cubs management: Repeal this money grab and return baseball to the masses. Why do you think there are Cub fans all over this country?!
— Vikki Proctor, Evanston
Belugas belong in the wild
Regarding the editorial about the Shedd Aquarium (“Shedd Aquarium is up there with the Cubs when it comes to visitors. More power to the fish,” April 29): The Shedd’s beluga exhibit is a cruel exploitation of these animals. In the wild, belugas live in the Artic Ocean. Confining them to tanks in order to sell tickets is abusive.
Since the opening of the beluga exhibit, I refuse to patronize the Shedd, and I encourage tourists to do the same.
— Richard Jardine, Chicago
Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
