WPCNR MR. & MRS. & MS. WHITE PLAINS VOICE. September 12, 2006: A reader suggests more citizens use the downtown and make it their own:
There is an old saying that there is strength in numbers. It is very a much a true saying. If there is one thing to remember when bad social epidemics start occur it is this: There are far more law abiding citizens than there are those wish to promote chaos.
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The best way to fight those who wish to disturb a peaceful way of life is not by limiting the freedoms of some; it is by all exercising theirs.
On a school night I know this may be a bit impractical, but if a way of life is threatened; a few nights of less than ideal sleep is a small price to pay.
The simple act of heading to City Center or Renaissance Fountain and sitting on a bench and reading a book, sipping a cup of coffee or having a conversation with a neighbor will deter any would be criminal.
Whole blocks make the pilgrimage to city hall for the Common Council meetings when a zoning law threatens their way of life. Sitting silent in one's living room is a de facto zoning change that criminals can own our city.
Grab a couple neighbors, enjoy the crisp fresh air of late summer while sitting by one of our many new fountains.
No two-bit wannabe likes a lot of witnesses. A crime is only worth while if there is a high probability of success or at least the perception thereof.
Lowering that probability and changing the perceptions of those few with harmful motives is as easy as the many rest of us exercising our own right to assemble peaceably.
Henry Ferlauto
