April 2002

April 19, 2002

The Cincinnati Enquirer

Dear Editor:

I read with horror the Peter Bronson article “What was the excuse this time?” in the April 19, 2002 edition. It was a clear reminder of last year’s riots and why the general public should have the right-to-carry concealed weapons.

Unfortunately, working downtown can be dangerous, especially for those who must drive Vine Street to get home.

Having to park downtown is also a safety concern. One of my colleagues has had her car broken into three times at the stadium. One night the thug was still in it while she approached!

The criminals may or may not be armed without regard to any gun control laws. Fortunately, we are allowed (for now) to carry concealed weapons in Hamilton County. The Vine Street incident is yet another reminder as to why it is necessary.

The “Wild West” shootouts have not happened here or in the 43 states with right-to-carry laws. In fact, a direct negative correlation has been proven between violent crime and guns. That is, the more guns in the hands of the general public — the lower the crime rates.

Governor Taft has continued to stand in the way of safety and security for the people of Ohio. If he continues to refuse to comply with his campaign promise to support right-to-carry legislation, then the citizens will have to file suit in the other 87 counties to restore our Constitutional right to bear arms.

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John E. Becker

April 19, 2002

The Cincinnati Enquirer

Dear Editor:

Once again, the liberals have led the Democrats in filibustering the proposal to drill for Oil in the ANWR region of Alaska. Perhaps most disappointing was Senator Mike DeWine’s decision to join with the liberal Democrats.

Being that our national security is at stake, I propose the following: Allow Alaska to secede from the United States.

As an independent nation, the people of Ohio (or any other state) will no longer have the authority to tell Alaskans what they can and can not do with their land. They will be free to develop their natural resources in the manner that they see fit.

This will be a win-win situation for everybody. Alaskans will no longer suffer from the dictates of the EPA, Federal taxes, or burdensome regulations. They will become a wealthy independent people.

The rest of us will enjoy the benefits of importing cheap oil, natural gas, timber, etc. The increase in world supply of natural resources will drive down prices. Lower prices will drive economic expansion, jobs, and prosperity.

The OPEC countries (which include Iraq and Iran) would certainly oppose my plan. I also expect the liberals who control the Democratic Party to join with OPEC in continuing to keep our country dependent on foreign oil.

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John E. Becker