Pro-CCW letter to the editor in the Findlay Courier

A pro-CCW letter to the editor has been printed in the Findlay Courier.

While we cannot concur with the writer's praise for Rep. Brinkman (he placed a principled, but counter-productive vote against HB12), and while we know Rep. Seitz is a friend of concealed carry reform efforts, the letter does a good job of referencing other states to point out that HB12 will only be hurt by the addition of restrictive amendments.

Since the Courier doesn't print their letters online, an archived copy is available by clicking on the "Read More..." link below.

One thing I was looking forward to in 2003 was the reintroduction of Concealed Weapons legislation that would be a success. Looks to me as though the attempt will be hampered the same way it was last year.

I'm glad Reps. Ashlanides and Brinkman are fighting for this legislation as hard as they are. Apparently, they've both done their homework and seen the benefit it has provided ALL of the other states with this provision. They know we are not breaking new ground...quite the contrary, we are among the last in line.

But then, I see opponents who are either ignorant to the benefits of CCW or they are deliberately trying to deceive their constituents. Among them are Rep. Tyrone Yates, who states, "This idea that we will be a safer society, in practical terms is an illusion." Really? Apparently, the US Dept. of Justice doesn't reflect that in the other states with this provision.

Then there is Rep. Bill Seitz who states "Ohio is not Vermont." That's correct. Ohio's crime rate is way higher than Vermont's. Apparently, he has not checked out the success of Vermont's carry laws. No permit required, and can be carried by anyone with a valid driver's license and of legal age for anything except commission of a crime.

He then goes on to say, "We are trying to stay in step with the states that are our neighbors." Really? Then why are they asking for locked guns in vehicles and 12 hours of course time. None of our border states have these add-ons.

Citizens have a state provision, Article I Section 4 of the State Constitution, the Second Amendment provision in the US Constitution, and the Biblical provision, Luke 22:36, that is being infringed upon with lack of action. It cannot be stressed enough that the ones we should be afraid of are the ones who will carry regardless of legislation. They are already out there.

For more information, visit www.ofcc.net. I found it to be very informative.

Damon M. Wiechman
Fostoria