That New York state of mind

I loved T.L. Stanley’s “Catcalls and Kisses: I Love New York!” (July 15). As a photographer based in L.A. and shooting in N.Y., I have, over the years, come to a similar conclusion.

I’ve found the women in New York to be more open, confident and accepting of who they are. I find that refreshingly delightful. As a man in his 50s, I love to flirt and tease. Daddy told me long ago that the way to a woman’s heart is to flatter her, make her feel good and send her gifts (my preferences: red roses, lingerie).

Don’t get me wrong, I love L.A., but the women? Whew. Needy, clingy, insecure. I have many women friends who are both physically and spiritually beautiful. But being as open and flirtatious in Southern California doesn’t seem possible.

Greg Autry

Aliso Viejo

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“Wolf whistles” are not lewd? Ogling and catcalls are acceptable?

Is T.L. Stanley serious? This was refreshing?

There is no way I, for one, am going to stoop to such a barbaric, frat-boy level.

Please be advised that all “very datable” women are fully permitted, and encouraged, to politely say “hello.” They may even initiate the exchange if they are so inclined.

Thomas Morton

San Diego

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A recent trip to Italy yielded similar results for me. Upon my return to Los Angeles, it was back to the usual: a no-show of love or attention.

Like T.L. Stanley, my single friends (disappearing at a record rate) and I are continually mystified as to why we (smart, funny, beautiful, successful) are still alone, growing more demoralized by the minute.

A return trip to Italy may be in the near future.

Jill Dolan

Monrovia

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I think most women would agree with T.L. Stanley’s observations wholeheartedly. I finally stopped dating men from California and found myself a man from New York (transplanted) at the age of 45.

What a difference!

Once you go East Coast, you’ll never go back.

Tori Armstrong

Huntington Beach

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An L.A.-native friend who recently moved to Manhattan says the annoying catcalls she’s suddenly getting walking down the street are very discomforting.

Some education is in order for T.L. Stanley. In L.A., you do not catcall for three reasons:

1) You drive everywhere. The only places people see you walking are at the Grove (not catcall friendly) or the beach (way more other talent out there);

2) People are more respectful. Beauty is acknowledged with an eyebrow raise or a nod to a buddy, but not a catcall;

3) Beauty is everywhere. I’ve been to New York; it has half the beautiful girls you see here.

Kevin Winston

Los Angeles