Marketplace Madness

Is it just me, or is anyone else tired of the perception that people are terrified of teenagers walking in groups (or packs) around public venues?
Don't we, the rest of the community, outnumber the kids?
Or perhaps is it the fear in the back of your mind, that should a group of kids begin to harrass or attack someone in plain view of others, that noone will come to your aid.
When did we as a community retreat into a hole and let teenage kids rule the earth, or at least the Marketplace?
The shooting at Valley Plaza mall a couple holidays ago was shocking, not to mention a very rare occurance.
But did it stop people from going to the mall?
Maybe, but the recent addition of outlets like "Lucky" jeans should have people flocking back to the facility.
The recent BPD crackdown against teens hanging out and causing problems at the Marketplace was great.
Not because I feel safer, but simply from the standpoint that if you don't crack the whip a couple times, you don't send a message.
Several dozen arrests does a lot more than a time out.
For the owners of the Marketplace, you already have security guards so add a few more.
Then, perhaps some brighter lights in the evening hours.
And business owners, feel empowered to say something more often to out-of-control teens.
Unfortunately, the trouble makers who hang out at the Marketplace to smoke, drink, vandalize and stay out past curfew will continue to do so, but some simple behavior modification can at least let them know people are aware and prepared to do something about it.