Before I get to the action alert . . . I've been thinking about migrating the Support Madison Police page. Change.org is an awesome service, but I'm looking for a venue that's more versatile. Mostly, I'd like a way to better communicate with you, make it easier for supporters to send action alerts, provide statistical data and other pertinent information more easily, and offer surveys. So my questions to you are . . . 1. Should we stay on Change.org or migrate to WordPress? 2. Whether we're on Change or WordPress, do you think you'd be more willing to communicate via a Facebook page? Please share your thoughts with me about this or other police / community stuff at paula@pjpublications.com or below in the Facebook app. Now down to business. You've likely heard Chief Koval's press conference and subsequent request for more police officers: http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/courts/mike-koval-repeats-pitch-for-additional-help-after-rash-of/article_29fcf378-7b7b-59a7-867f-673c6e84ba6c.html Several of us have known for awhile that Madison is starting to face big city challenges. This is not Mayberry. Read: Home invasions, gang violence, car-jackings, gang rape, violence, gun shots, armed robberies, murders, assaults of innocent citizens. We so feel your pain, Chief - We too, have been called fear-mongerers for calling these problems out to the community. Which is why I need you, dear reader, to compose a simple letter to the Madison Common Council. There are a myriad of law enforcement issues in the mix right now, and assorted variables helping to create the current dysfunction. We can't fix everything in one sitting. So, for simplicity and practicality purposes, I think it's prudent to focus on one thing at a time. For now, demand that the city fund the hiring of more police officers. You can include the following points in your letter. Let me know if you need statistical data or more specifics on any of the following. -The city's population is growing according to various estimates, including the City of Madison's government page. -We are experiencing more violent crimes than we have in the past (you can refer to the article above). -We don't have an adequate number of police officers to address the above concerns. Whether you live, work, play, or care an iota about Madison, please write to the alders at allalders@cityofmadison.com And thank you to to those of you who have already taken the time to write letters and make calls. You are so appreciated. I look forward to hearing from you. : ) All the best. --Paula Fitzsimmons