On Sam Hall Kaplan

I mourn the loss of Sam Hall Kaplan’s column from the pages of the Los Angeles Times.

Kaplan has consistently offered us welcome food for thought. His menu has been full--planning, urban design, architecture new and old, relationships between people and places, between government and private enterprise--all spiced with humor and seasoned with his unique personal opinion. After partaking, we sometimes found ourselves gratified, sometimes chagrined, but always stirred, always challenged to think.

Whether complimenting or poking fun at the Los Angeles built environment and its creators, Kaplan, above all else, called for more sensitivity and more humanity in our communities. His contribution has been a positive one, and we are richer for it. His witty and provocative words will be sorely missed.

SUSAN N. MOSSMAN

Pasadena