Now an entitlement to free transit rides

It appears that the governor, the legislature, the transit authorities and the news media all need copies of a dictionary. The definition of "free" in Dictionary.com is: "provided without, or not subject to, a charge or payment."

In fact, the cost of allowing seniors to ride the transit "free" is estimated at $12 million. Simply stated, they are not riding free -- taxpayers are buying them tickets. While this may seem a generous act, no doubt the lack of planning on the part of the transit authorities and government that brought about this doomsday crisis has failed to project this cost into the future.

With the very first baby-boomers turning 60 this year this "free ride" cost will certainly mushroom in the very near future. So while our parents quietly won a world war and came home to quietly work hard and make tough choices and sacrifices to build a great nation, their children stand in the public square ringing their hands, running from tough choices and gladly accepting the next handout.

As a boomer and member of AARP, I stand embarrassed at the burdens we continue to push forward to our children. Instead of sneering the next time you pass by a young person with purple hair, baggy jeans or a piercing that you find unattractive -- might I suggest you smile and say thank you. Look them in the eye and realize they will be providing you health care, paying your Social Security and now buying you transit tickets for years to come. Better yet, try looking your children and grandchildren in the eyes and explaining to them why you believe they owe you a transit ticket!

Any elected official (including the Du Page County officials dancing gleefully that they now may not need a tax referendum) supporting this future burden to our children should be ashamed -- as should all of us if they get re-elected.

Denny Moller

Wheaton