Steamed at Safeway
Editor: I have to admit that I’ve never been a big fan of Safeway Stores; however, last week I stopped in to the Sonoma Safeway to do some shopping because a friend said it was worth stopping by. I will never, never step foot in that store again! While I was rolling my full cart around the store, I happened to accidentally roll onto the carpeted area at the front of the store. Imagine my shock and dismay when a shrill, screaming alarm when off AND the wheels of my cart locked up! The clerk that was called to unlock my cart – as I stood there like a common criminal – told me that this was how Safeway catches shoplifters.
Let’s see, with Sonoma Market, Whole Foods and Lucky’s in the same town – all of whom bend over backwards to make sure their customers have a great shopping experience – why in the world would ANYONE ever shop at a store that treats you like a thief when you happen to cross an invisible boundary. I, for one, will not be crossing that invisible boundary ever again!!
Vicki Woodhead
Sonoma
Kudos for
cops and kid
Editor: I would like to make a few comments regarding the “No Fault Accident” between a bicycle and pedestrian. First of all, I would like to compliment the police officers for their fine effort in the investigation of this no fault accident. As a retired police officer, I know just how difficult it can be to put all the pieces back together after an accident. I was appalled after reading some of the opinions written by residents of Sonoma (”Keystone Cops Strike Again,” and “Influential Parents Prevail over Local Artist”). Clearly, they must be individuals who have experience with criminal justice and/or police investigation, right? Then there are others who are quick to judge without any knowledge of the facts. I doubt any of these people have personally viewed the area where the accident took place. There are three very tall busy trees planted in the space between the sidewalk and curb that could easily block the visibility of both pedestrian and cyclist. It has come to my attention that other accidents have occurred in this same area, so perhaps the trees should be taken down? Also, the boy was not riding recklessly or breaking any laws by riding on the sidewalk, and it has been proven that there is no way he could have been riding at 17 mph as the witness stated. I’m sure the witness also had difficulty seeing the boy approaching, as a result of the trees.
The boy immediately called 911 and waited for help to arrive for Ms. Mitchell. The witness was not thinking clearly enough to manage this task, so I would like to say to that boy, “GOOD FOR YOU FOR CALLING THE POLICE AND STAYING AT THE SCENE.” As we all know, he could have just ridden away as a lot of people may have done. I think for a 13-year-old-boy, he made a mature decision.
God bless Ms. Mitchell and I pray for her speedy recovery. Please, let’s be part of the solution, not part of the problem.
Inspector Bob Alberigi
SFPD – Retired
Novato