This is the bench where Phil asked me to marry him.
This is also one of my favorite parks to hike. But...
A few months ago, I hiked from one of the more remote parking lots and returned to find the car window broken and some things missing. One of them was my iPad (yeah, I know. the "Don't Leave Valuables In Your Car" sign matters.) Anyway, we were able to track it to a part of town where I have been warned not to go because of gang activity.
A couple of weeks ago I went up for the first time - and for the first time saw gang tags up on the road. The gangs are taking over and I resent that they have to ruin everything.
So, I avoid that part entrance and stick to the more populated ones (so I will pass that bench more often) and enjoy the day...