Letters to the Editor | Nov. 19, 2025

Thank you to Wendy Ruderman for your moving story about Mike West. I had the privilege of knowing both Mike and Lynn — Mike, who left a lasting impact, and Lynn, who continues to honor his legacy with grace and heart. Your piece truly captured their spirit.

Mike was always approachable — no matter how challenging the business discussion, his smile always led the way into the room. He was a consummate professional who brought people together and made things happen, always with kindness and respect.

Reading about his journey with Alzheimer’s was difficult. It’s hard to imagine the weight of the decisions he faced. I salute Lynn for her courage in sharing resources and their family’s experience, so others might find help and understanding on their own Alzheimer’s journeys.

Your story is a reminder that it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and forget what matters most in support of friends and family. Mike’s legacy isn’t just in Rothman’s growth, but in how he treated people — with genuine care. Sharing his story will help more families find the support they need.

Thank you for telling it with such compassion.

Richard L. Snyder, chief operating officer, Independence Blue Cross

I’m writing in response to the recent article about sewage pollution in the Philly-Camden region. As a coxswain on the St. Joseph’s women’s rowing team, I spend hours training on the Schuylkill. Lately, it’s hard not to think about what’s flowing below us — billions of gallons of sewage-tainted water.

Combined sewer systems — where sewage and stormwater share the same pipes to a treatment plant — serve about 60% of Philadelphia. These systems can’t handle heavy rainfall, causing overflows that contaminate our rivers. Between 2016 and 2024, an average of 12.7 billion gallons of untreated sewage and stormwater entered local waterways each year. This goes against the Clean Water Act’s goal of protecting U.S. waters and threatens wildlife, communities, and athletes like myself.

Philadelphia must invest in stronger infrastructure that can handle heavy rainfall. While green stormwater projects are an important start, they aren’t enough to protect the Schuylkill and Delaware Rivers. Ongoing sewage overflows make training and recreation unsafe for up to 195 days a year. It’s time for the Water Department to act and keep our rivers clean and safe.

Cecilia Sarnowski, Philadelphia

I read with astonishment and anger the article about the disappearance of exhibits about Black American soldiers in a World War II cemetery in the Netherlands.

Does this administration know no shame?

These soldiers died fighting for freedom and against the Nazis. They must be remembered.

How must their descendants feel?

Judy Hartl, Philadelphia

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