I am frequently amazed at life’s contradictions. Such a case is the condition of the famous Pinehurst Traffic Circle. One governmental agency has spent a great deal of taxpayer money to upgrade the circle, to make it safer and more efficient for traffic flow. Another governmental agency has spent more taxpayer money to install sprinklers to water the beautiful seasonal flowers planted each spring.

Logic leads me to expect a thing of beauty as I approach this cornerstone of village life. But sadly, as I slow my car to navigate the circle and enjoy its beauty, I’m amazed as I see my fellow taxpayers litter our landmark with cigarette butts. Mixed with years of sand and dirt, the tens of thousands of butts and filters have turned a focal point of history and beauty into Moore County’s ashtray, and all at the same taxpayer’s expense.

John Hoffman

Seven Lakes