Going With the Flow

It’s good to see that the “little old lady from Pasadena” is alive and well (“They’re Going 60 at 90--but Safely,” by Dave Larsen, March 13).

Hazel Gutwein, a 94-year-old from Pasadena, may have to use a cane to walk, but behind the wheel her engine roars (or at least purrs), and she’s able to keep up with the flow of traffic.

Actually, this granny and others like her are able to exercise a little more self-control than the famed lady in Jan and Dean’s hit record, as they do a better job of keeping their foot off the accelerator. They keep up with traffic, but they make a concerted effort not to exceed the speed limit.

Southern California is a tough place to live for someone who doesn’t drive, as other forms of transportation (bus, taxi, etc.) are so expensive and/or unreliable. It is especially hard on senior citizens, as they are the ones who need to get around the most (doctor, dental, eye appointments, bank deposits, recreational activities, etc.), but are often least able to.

So grannies (and grandpas), keep those cars rolling down Colorado Boulevard. You are entitled as anyone else to drive. But please, no driving 30 m.p.h. in front of me on the freeways.

KENNETH L. ZIMMERMAN

Cypress