Thank you for publishing my letter in the Aug. 2, 2009, issue of the Albert Lea Tribune. I have read some comments online, revealing the need for clarification on my part. The title of the article as I submitted it was, “The blues in the Blue Zone: an appeal.”

The word “appeal” is what I hope will be emphasized. Of the very many police officers that have been here, they have all been very courteous, making every effort they could to be of help. They have all concluded that “there is no ordinance forbidding people from playing in the streets.”

Why not, I ask again?  They represent creating needless hazards to themselves, to vehicular traffic, and to residents and private property. Hence, police are the ones shackled in this city. Shackle the lawless, not the police.

I greatly regret that the title of my article was changed. It contributed heavily to distorting my purpose, which was an appeal to city government to respond to a clear need. If they do not, they are going to create an invitation for others to randomly intrude on the private property of other citizens, likewise doing so with impunity. That has very dangerous ramifications. Creating appropriate ordinances is in the best interests of everyone, not only residents and their private properties, but in the best interests of diminishing the inevitability of young “men,” children, or vehicles, being the victims of “accidents.”

Finally, my wife and I greatly appreciate, and, in fact, greatly like all the police officers and staff who have struggled to help us. They are a terrific crew! Members of the Albert Lea City Council, we are sure, are likewise good folks, but very much need to enact appropriate protective ordinances to what is a clear need of concern to all taxpaying residents.

Rick Mammel

Albert Lea