By Jay Rubenstein Santa Monica
Editor: I am a new resident of this terrific city and am most appalled by the lax enforcement of clean air and vagrancy laws. I am most pleased in general with life here but agree with most intelligent Santa Monicans. That public parks should be for the enjoyment of our families, friends and especially tourists, all who enrich our privileged way of life.
I happen to be a smoker, but am quite satisfied to smoke in only those areas that this habit is legally permitted. I am also vehemently opposed to illegal substances such as grass, hashish, which is openly smoked in the oasis from the traffic and crowded streets. Those who enjoy jogging or just plain walking (as I do) would also be most pleased. Perhaps the pier should ban smoking and public intoxication as well.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on July 2, 2002. Read the original PDF.