New York is a long way from El Lay so I really should not have a problem with it, but I was thinking about the situation and would like to 'localize' it with a scenario that may be little similar to what is going on with this topic.

Yes, It's a scenario, but hang with the topic? It's morbid curiosity that makes me ask and I just want to see if it makes anyone think differently?

------------------------------

Remember, this is a "what if?"

Who are you? You are married with two kids of your own, you SO has brought her two into the family - they are two boys and two girls from 5-14.

--------------

The first problem?

During a serious family meeting you are told that one of your relatives has molested another family member. Because of the time lapse, there is no way to make this person responsible for what they did. When the family member is confronted with the story, they begin to yell, scream and accuse you of lying and not taking any responsibility for their supposed actions. The healing begins but everyone has circled the wagons for whichever side you are on, and there is definite animosity between the two.

-----------------------------

You live in a neighborhood for years and know ALL the neighbors.

An empty lot across the street is being developed into a complex with six apartments in it. When you run into the neighbor who owns the land you
chat and find out that he has sold it to a group that is doing the building.


You meet the NEW owner and he/they tell you that four of the units will be used as 'monthly rentals' to people who are a little down on their luck.

The building is finished and you begin to suspect the rentals are being used by men and women who are fresh out of prison/jail as temp shelters until they get on their feet. Your gut is correct and later find out that there are some child molesters in the mix in addition to the parolees.

What do you do?

Are you satisfied that they have paid their dues to society and now have the right to live where they want?

Are you comfortable with your children playing in the street or your front yard?

Are you trusting that your local PD can and will be there to protect you and your family should you need them?

Are you mad that the landlord lied to you about renting these units monthly to people that may fall back into their life of crime?

Are you comfortable with the laws that will allow CMs to live in the same area with your family?

------------------

I know it's a stretch between a scenario and the mosque/community center in NY, I do understand the laws/rules and the right to worship in the U.S.

I just want to see if that scenario would make anyone on the board see why the New Yorkers might be a little skittish, no matter how this CC/mosque presented to them.


Take a minute and talk amongst yourselves?