The police are here to help — thank them for it

The cops were called on me this weekend by one of my neighbors. I won't say why my neighbors felt the need to call the cops, but I will say that three officers showed up at my door. After I explained the source of the problem to the officers they offered me some advice, some pleasant conversation and went on their way.

As they were driving away, I realized that I've never had a negative experience with the Asheville Police Department. Then I thought about the investigation into the evidence room at the APD, the CopWatch organization that keeps a vigilant eye on the thin blue line and the May Day anarchists that ransacked downtown in the name of anti-authoritarianism, and it occurred to me that there are a great deal of negative or even anti-cop feelings in this town of Asheville.

Well, I want to tell the people of Asheville that, while there may be one or two people in the APD who've gone astray, the vast majority of the men and women who choose to serve and protect are truly interested in just that. Next time you walk past an officer of the APD in downtown, or get pulled over for going too fast down Merrimon Avenue, try letting that officer know that they are appreciated and respected for all that they do to make Asheville a safer and happier place. You might find that a little kindness, respect and appreciation go a long way.

— Chris Burgher
Asheville

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