Hundreds of ghost bikes are spread across New York City to commemorate the bikers and pedestrians killed by motorists. Biking is difficult on the city’s rough road. Potholes and repairs force bikers into the path of cars and trucks. Bikers were win this contest, however I noticed over the last six months that the Brooklyn streets have been smoother. I mentioned this improvement to LA Larry at Frank’s the other night and he said, “That’s because Mayor Bloomberg doesn’t want the CitiBikes to get fucked up on the streets. He has a piece of them you know.”
Everyone in the bar nodded their assent.
“Mayor Bloomberg is no pal of mine.” I hated him for the racist policy of ‘stop and frisk’ and the record number of marijuana arrests aimed at blacks and Hispanics. “BUt I don’t see him owning the bikes.”
“He don’t own them, but he gets his piece.” LA Larry worked for the city. He had insider poop.
“He’s a billionaire.”
“Don’t mean he leave small change at the bar. Rich people are rich, because they take all their money.”
“Amen to that.” The bar was vocal in their agreement.
“Well, I’m happy that the streets are smooth.” I rode back and forth to work in Greenpoint every day.
“Well, lucky you.” LA Larry didn’t drive a car and he did ride a bike. His mode of transportation was the subway.
“I guess I am.” We clinked glasses and changed the subject to baseball.
It was World Series time and the Red Sox are in it.
Time to see how lucky I am.