Humble suggestion for a visitor-friendly Rhode Island

   I can only agree with our state leaders- seeking tourist dollars- who want to make Little Rhody more visitor friendly. But they often forget the basics. A tradition of New England puritanism makes many business owners hostile to human physiology . I see many obnoxious NO PUBLIC RESTROOM signs in my frequent RIPTA bus travels. You would think that the Kennedy Plaza bus station rest- room could be open just as long  as  the buses are running-or even later. Around twilight I find myself  walking in the alley between the Superman Building and the CVS store.  And I am nearly sickened by the overpowering stench of many stale gallons of urine. The homeless or " just drunk " late at night ?  Of course in the light of day we could just arrest and fine ( fine the penniless ! ) them all for " indecent exposure ".  But  we are all too human: is having a full bladder an " abominable and detestable crime against nature ?

          To be sure, we need more USER FRIENDLY public restrooms in Rhode Island.   The late 60s rascal Abbey Hoffman demanded that we " abolish pay-public toilets. But like pay-public phones they are no more to be found.

         Esteemed editors of the Providence Journal : Speak now or forever hold your piss ( sic) !