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Flag at half staff in Firemen’s Park. It was not like that 3 days ago. Blogfinger photo.   4/23/21.

The HIll:    “President Biden on Tuesday ordered flags at the White House, public office buildings and other government properties to be flown at half-staff to honor former Vice President Walter Mondale who died on Monday at the age of 93.

“Biden announced the decision in a press release from the White House, writing that U.S. flags flown at public grounds, military posts, naval stations and at all embassies and U.S. offices abroad will be flown at half-staff “until sunset, on the day of interment.”

So, flying the flag at half staff here would fall under the category of “public grounds.”   It’s interesting  that whoever decided this for Firemen’s Park is acknowledging that it is a public place  (even though it is privately owned..)

But when it comes to surrounding the bell with ugly and restricting and dangerous fencing, while locking it with a heavy chain and lock, the Park  becomes private.

That park should be open to all, and kids should be allowed to go in the center and touch or run around, or ride their scooters, or even ring that bell without having to be near that risky fence and the plantings which are covered with sharp needles.

TONY BENNETT: