On Sat., March 14, our car was sideswiped in front of our home by a hit-and-run driver.

Hearing the screech of tires and the sound of a crash, one of us immediately ran out to see what had happened. Several neighbors had already emerged on the scene with detailed information about what they had seen.

Just a few minutes later, the police and fire departments showed up, gathered information and were in search of the culprit. Shortly thereafter another neighbor drove to the scene with information about the exact location of the vehicle that hit our car.

It's this kind of prompt and outstanding service from the city of Thousand Oaks' public safety departments and amazing neighbors like ours who look out for each other that makes our city so safe and a great place to live.

Our sincerest thanks to all. Patty and Mario Contini Thousand Oaks

Mario Contini is superintendent of Conejo Valley Unified School District.