Flyers

Hardly a day goes by that I fail to see a new flyer tacked or pasted to telephone or light poles or any other upright structure in sight. In many instances multiple flyers containing the same message are affixed. The flyers are to the poles what graffiti is to the side of a building.

There is no doubt that they serve a purpose. They broadcast a message, frequently an important one, at a minimum cost to the originating organization. In many instances this may be the only way to reach a segment of the populace.

The problem with both graffiti and flyers is that they are both uncontrolled and pass the responsibility for removal on to third parties. The originators escape any costs of removal. As a result, any consideration for unsightliness after the flyer deteriorates and, in the first instance, for the sheer quantity, is of no concern to the issuer.

A simple solution to the problem would be to make the issuing organization that is identified on the flyer financially responsible for the timely removal of the flyers upon the expiration of the event. This action would fix the cost of removal on the issuing party and would make room for others wishing to advertise in this manner.

HARRY A. GILBERT

Los Angeles