T rider's rudeness

WITH THE world in economic turmoil, it seems trivial to focus on politeness ("Mind your manners, T urges rude riders," Page A1, Oct. 15), so I'll be brief.

I watched a sartorially attractive 20-something sit and read his free tabloid while ignoring an elderly woman with a cane standing in front of him on the T the other day. A seated woman of comparable age and dress graciously relinquished her seat. After a half-dozen stops, the man, having arrived at his destination, threw his newspaper on the floor and left. Two demerits - or should I say strikes? - for him.

The MBTA's efforts to promote courtesy are essential.

SHIRLEY PARTOLL, Brookline