Letter to the Editor: Miss-Led is a bigot

June 27, 2004
Toledo Blade

I was intrigued by Marilou Johanek's June 18 column regarding Ohio's new concealed-carry law.

In the course of her ill-informed rant against this law she made mention of "obsessive nuts" and "misguided ideologues with aggressive tendencies." I think that I'll leave the name-calling to her.

What was most telling about Ms. Johanek's column was her assertion that Ohioans applying for a concealed-carry permit "will still represent only a fraction of the state's population." I can't help but wonder how many other minorities that "represent only a fraction of the state's population" will be offended by such bigotry and hatred.

TOM SUSSMAN
Rolandale Avenue

Following is another letter to the Blade editor on City of Toledo's "invalid" and unenforcable park ban.

June 26, 2004
Toledo Blade

Concealed carry bans are illegal

For well over two months, I have been engaged in a battle with the City of Toledo and other municipalities regarding their bans on concealed carry of firearms by law-abiding licensees.

In my view these bans are illegal because they violate state and municipal laws, the Ohio Constitution, a state Supreme Court decision, the oaths of office of public officials, and the fundamental right to legitimate self defense. Also, "home rule" does not allow this. Just read the Constitution.

I have treated these officials with the utmost respect and courtesy, only to be ignored, snubbed, and insulted in return.

Additionally, my status as a non-Toledo resident is irrelevant. The last time I looked at a map, Toledo was in the U.S.A., and I have every right to travel to, in, and about Toledo for any legal purpose. All-America City? Not under this administration.

With the exception of James Gee, director of TARTA, no city official has had the guts to debate this issue in any public forum. These same officials didn't even bother consulting with City Council. I understand that they are in the difficult position of having to dance to the mayor's tune for fear of losing their jobs.

I will not let this rest until Mayor Ford repeals this ban. Why does he not have the courage to openly debate it? Is it because he knows he will lose?

I offer the invitation. Any time, any place, in front of cameras and microphones.

Bruce A. Beatty
Luckey, Ohio