By Carol Hastings
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Davis, Your story of having your new bikes stolen was a sad one (“No fun with Dick and Jane,” page 4, March 25). I’m sorry this happened to you in my town and that it blighted your vacation here. I’m also sorry that you won’t visit us again because of it. I’d like to think we are nice people — and many of us are. We are part of one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world and tough “big city” realities exist here as they do everywhere in the Los Angeles area.
If it’s any consolation, I’ve lived in Santa Monica for over 20 years and I’ve had at least two bikes stolen. Many people I know in the area have had a bike stolen here one time or another. This absolutely doesn’t make it right. I didn’t have the added injury of surveillance cameras to see who stole my bikes. I often ride my bike around town for pleasure and for errands. It’s a joy that I appreciate about my town. I certainly lock it wherever I go.
If you decide to return to our town, I offer the use of one or two bikes (and locks) when you are here so that you too can enjoy our city and beaches the way I am able to on a daily basis. I can’t make-up for your loss, but perhaps I can help to restore a tiny bit of faith in humankind.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on March 26, 2008. Read the original PDF.