Oh wow! A draft from long ago that was never published, but now is (written on 20 June, 2010)—furthermore, it reminds me to type up my recent Bike Ride of Nearly Icy Doom, a Denver event, (winter 2011).
set(tle) down now
I was on my way home from the store (where I purchased a almost-local brew, in lieu of cheaper imported wine, because I was drawn to supporting an unusually ecological and bike-positive company). As I approached a newly-turned red light, I slowed significantly, checked both ways, and continued to pedal through it when I decided it was obvious that there were no vehicles or pedestrians anywhere in the vicinity at all — except for a car that pulled up and stopped at the light just as I pedaled on.
"Hey, asshole!" someone shouted at me — I slowed and turned to look. "Yea, you gotta stop, too!" a fellow exclaimed at me from the passenger side of the car at the light. I scowled instinctively and slowed to a stop to wait for them and invite a discussion. The light turned green, and on came the little car. I gestured something that clearly suggested we talk about it — but they drove on past, again shouting; this time something that I couldn't discern.
I once counted from my porch in Albuquerque: 23 of 25 cars passing the intersection were single-occupant. That's a lot percent.
I once counted from my porch in Albuquerque: 23 of 25 cars passing the intersection were single-occupant. That's a lot percent.
