To the editor:

I must disagree wholeheartedly with the opinion column presented by Rep. Deb Ruggerio (“If it’s not fiber, it’s not broadband”) recently printed in the Portsmouth Times. What are my qualifications for making such an assertion? I am a retired IT expert with more than 40 years’ experience, particularly in networked environments.

To be certain, Rep. Ruggerio does have a point with regard to service on Aquidneck Island. It is far too expensive and, in the minds of some, seriously flawed. Again, while Cox has its issues, I have heard similar complaints raised about Xfinity (Comcast), Verizon, and others. And the complaints, with the exception of cost, always sound similar. The real problem, I believe, is a failure to understand and use the technology correctly. Too often, people expect the technology to do things it was never intended to do or try to push the limits.

Regardless I find it humorous for Rep. Ruggerio to fault the state for the creation of a situation and then look to the state to correct the problem. In my experience, some elements of the state, too, do not understand the technology. But what else can you expect from the General Assembly? 

Ralph Mace

103 Easton Ave.

Portsmouth