September 29, 1998

To: Colonel Jerry Oliver
Chief of Police

From: John M. Felts, Co-convener, ASWAN
A Society Without A Name, For People Without A Home

Dear Jerry:

Well, you challenged me. Though you did not signed it, it's on your stationary and your name was at the bottom of the letter. Enclosed is a copy of the February 1, 1998 letter. This won't be a argumentative letter, only a stepping stone to insure safety for all people. So, I'll give you a couple of ideals and later have a talk with the Executive Director of the Daily Planet James E. Price. I'll be in touch with you soon after my talk with Dr. Price. One ideal is that during the winter if someone is turned away from any homeless agency and refuse shelter, that the person is given a slip or card to obtain a blanket after business hours at the Daily Planet. Certainly, a person isn't homeless by choice during cold weather (unless he's off his rocker), not when a choice is warmth and cushion verses cold and hard. Another ideal is when agencies become full, blankets are distributed when a person is forced to sleep outside by several agencies, even after normal business hours. I believe we can reasonably resolve this concern. Also, I believe you, when you indicated that you had no knowledge of the related letter. Next time, be careful about what is being written under your stationary. Thanks for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

John M. Felts,
ASWAN Co-convener