Spring Break in Palm Springs

I have just finished reading Robert A. Jones’ column “Mayor Sonny at War With the Thong,” (March 27). It would not surprise me if Jones’ nearest brush with the reality of Palm Springs came over the wire of his fax machine, which is where he admits he did his research for this ill-conceived column.

He obviously was not looking for any factual evidence of the continuing vitality of the city. It is still the retail sales volume leader of the Coachella Valley in spite of the emergence of new shopping centers and warehouse clubs in other cities.

His gleeful description of the thong bikini on the back of a Honda indicates that in addition to being a colorful writer he is also a dirty old man.

Palm Springs has reason to be concerned about the antics of spring breakers who come to town and create a nearly uncontrollable situation. This year Easter Week was calm, mostly because of the weather. The only reason the breakers come is to enjoy the sun and the opportunity to get out of cold climates. They have been coming for years and will continue to come when the weather is right.

Jones’ column is beautifully written, poorly researched, grossly unfair and seedy in at least part of its content.

E.J. (TED) GROFER

Palm Springs