Get out of your car and ride a bike

Re: “Cyclist has bike lane to himself,” Letter, Sept. 22.

In 1983, as part of my aroundthe-world travel, I was in Tiananmen Square in China. The square was filled with bikes, walkers and the occasional black government limo. People actually paid cash to have their picture taken in a convertible car because it was a novelty.

Now, the square is packed with cars, pollution and a few bikes ushered to the side, so cars dominate. Their pollution problem causes immense health concerns and global repercussions. They will revert back, I am sure.

They mistakenly saw the car as civilized, prestigious, and a sign of achievement.

Now, we are making bike lanes to improve health, encourage a better climate and we recognize cars’ limitations, i.e., traffic problems.

I ride all year, every day, and delight at the fast pace, good health and welcome fresh air.

I say get out of your car and help the Chinese see their folly. Good for you, city council — finally, we are catching up with Portland, Ore. Rev. John Pentland, Calgary