I take exception to the letter published in the September 26 edition of your paper written by Mr. Tarpey. He seems to be implying that Mickey McDermott, owner of the Mobil Station on Broadway in Massapequa was taking advantage of consumers by raising gas prices on September 11. I was happy to see your paper added an "Editor’s note" to this letter, explaining how gas prices are set by Mobil, and how they have now come down at Mr. McDermott’s station as well as others.

What annoys me about Mr. Tarpey’s letter is how he could assume what Mr. McDermott’s actions and reasons were, without even knowing Mr. McDermott.

I have been a customer of Mr. McDermott’s for over 10 years. My son Joseph is handicapped and wheelchair bound, and as such I rely on my handicapped accessible van greatly. Without it, my son could not get around. Mickey McDermott is well aware of my situation. I recall one Saturday this past year, when my van broke down with my son in back, miles from my home. With my son in his wheelchair, it was impossible for someone to simply come and get us and take us home. I called Mickey. On his busiest day at the station, Mickey dropped everything and came out and towed us in. He then repaired my van for us while we waited. If that wasn’t enough, he gave my son a replica Mobil toy truck as well. I will never forget Mickey McDermott’s kindness that day, and neither will my son. Perhaps Mr. Tarpey should get to know the person, before he writes disparaging letters.

Nick D’Avanzo

Wantagh