Letters to the editor June 3

Police presence

An open letter to Kalispell Police Chief Jordan Venezio:

I am writing to request your help regarding the weekly demonstration being held on Main Street at Depot Park. Every Monday afternoon from 4:30-5:30 p.m., a group of concerned patriots line the sidewalk with signs and flags peacefully exercising our right to protest. We are there to show our fierce commitment to democracy and our worry about the future of America. This weekly effort will continue indefinitely. We have no intention of quitting any time soon. 

Therefore, we would very much appreciate a police presence in the area during this hour. I feel strongly that a police car cruising the general area would alleviate the more aggressive behaviors we are experiencing from angry opponents every week. 

The most concerning, from a health standpoint, are the pickup trucks that enjoy repeatedly engulfing us with black exhaust as they speed by (coal rolling). Many of us are elderly with respiratory conditions that do not tolerate this smoke well. Aside from the clear intimidation this is meant to convey, it is also a personal assault on our health and well-being. 

This nuisance can be controlled by the Police Department showing an interest in our safety and issuing citations when appropriate. We would certainly appreciate your effort. 

Thanking you in advance for your cooperation.

 — Sheila Zohrer, Kalispell