A lack of understanding
Recently I have read comments by a local attorney, college student and newspaper editor in regard to legislation brought up by two of our local legislators. The one thing they have in common is the complete lack of understanding of the word concealed.
The college student commented on how it would make her uncomfortable knowing the person next to her was armed. This statement was repeated by the editor. These statements just prove my point.
When our lawmakers decided to ban concealed weapons in certain places they could just as easily have included bikini underwear, tattoos on breasts or buttocks and tampons. They also don't comprehend the meaning of the word concealed. I'll bet there are a lot of people at Ford Hood or in Orlando who prayed to God that someone near them was carrying a concealed weapon.
Jerry Ritter
Traverse City
Not a giveaway
I have noticed articles about Social Security and Medicare. Please don't beat up seniors who are not taking advantage of the system but have paid their way and are finally receiving what they have paid in through good times and bad.
While private industry keeps increasing premiums and providers' costs and billings increase, the government does try to control costs of products, drugs and services that these industries provide. More oversight could help this program, if it would be done.
Don't bash the Medicare recipient. For most of us, this is the first affordable coverage we've had that takes care of a lot of our needs. It's still not a giveaway. It cost years of hard work and we still pay for Part B, C & D out of pocket.
By the way, we don't get dental, optical or hearing aids. That would help.
Thomas L. Vert
Traverse City
Maybe we'll forget
Once again, by voting against meaningful health insurance reform, Congressman Dave Camp has chosen to put the interests of insurance company lobbyists over those of his constituents.
Maybe he thinks everything is fine because his family is covered. Maybe he thinks that other people's husbands and wives and children don't deserve as much as his. Maybe he doesn't see the fact of so many without coverage as a moral issue. Maybe he doesn't think it's a problem. Maybe he just doesn't get it. Maybe he thinks we will forget.
John Peck
Maple City
A critical need
In reference to the proposed concealed weapon legislation (Oct. 25 Record-Eagle story), I hope the bill sponsored by Rep. Schmidt, R-Traverse City, to allow concealed weapons on college campuses does not suggest, as it appears to, that he considers this issue more important than working to assure adequate funding for the campuses.
His priorities for legislative action certainly don't reflect mine, and I hope not those of the majority of voters. Funds for our educational system are a critical need that our legislators are ignoring.
Harry A. Eick
Traverse City
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