By John Zarchen Santa Monica
After reading your retraction (editor) and letters (Mr. Bolt and Ms. “Viper”) I want to clarify my comments of July 22.
I am espousing vigilance not violence. The citizens of Santa Monica deserve better than to watch the criminal-homeless urinate, defecate, vomit, expose themselves, panhandle, rob, harass and violate the civil and criminal laws of this great city. Like the guardian angels of New York City, I am urging our young men and women to demand that these criminals “move on” or “cease and desist” their criminal behavior, not to randomly threaten them!
Mr. Bolt, this “windbag” has served his community with thousands of hours of volunteerism including stints on the Board of Directors at Daniel Freeman Hospital, helping desperately poor citizens and as chairman of the board of the now defunct Art Share Los Angles, a downtown refuge for at-risk teens.
I also actively participate in fundraising activities for our schools, St. Joseph Center and other local and national not-for-profit organizations. I put my money where my mouth is. Cultural and economic diversity make Santa Monica a truly sustainable city and I embrace both.
I stand behind my rally cry to have the citizenry be ever vigilant and challenge trespassers and law-breakers. Let them know what they are doing is illegal and that you are going to report their criminal behavior.
Thank you Santa Monica Daily Press for practicing free speech and facilitating an open dialogue among the people.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on July 29, 2003. Read the original PDF.