Whereabouts of ‘Tireman’ solved

Where’s Richard the Tireman? I go out of town one day, only to return the next to find that Richard from Richard’s Tireman in Agoura Hills is gone—overnight. Official word is that he retired and moved to Colorado. I couldn’t believe it. I’d just talked to him and that wasn’t his plan when we spoken, but here he was gone.

Those of us in Agoura who know Richard know what an honest, reliable, fair man he is. He always remembers names of his customers and has a humorous or kind word for all. He was as hard a worker you’ll ever find.

I met Richard the day my husband and I split. I knew nothing about cars, tires, oil changes or brakes. I needed help and I needed someone I could trust. I went to the shop and told him I needed a trustworthy person to take care of my car issues. I told him if he was fair and honest with me and never took advantage of my car ignorance, I would refer friends, colleagues and neighbors to him.

That was about 10 years ago and I can honestly say he came through for me. I heard many times from those same friends that he came through for them as well. His business was thriving and every day busier than the last, so you can imagine my dismay when I heard the news he was gone.

You can also imagine my surprise when, the other day I ran into our Richard the Tireman. Not only is he not in Colorado, but he isn’t retired, either. He is alive and well and working at California Tire in Newbury Park.

In these days when honesty, fairness and trust are difficult to find, I can tell you the few extra miles to be fairly taken care of is certainly worth the drive. I am so happy he’s still nearby and wanted to share the information with those of you who are wondering, “Where’s our tireman?” Kathy Smalarz Agoura Hills