| LTE: Former gun opponent now agrees with goals of 'carry-and-conceal' movement |
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| Written by Jeff Garvas | |
| Monday, 20 June 2005 | |
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The Athens News June 16, 2005 I must confess, I never thought I would have arrived at the conclusion I've come to these past months. During my time as an Ohio University student, I often questioned the validity of the carry and conceal weapons legislation passed by the Ohio Legislature. Some may remember when I went head to head with the Ohio University Second Amendment Club and other gun-rights advocates on this issue. Growing up in the metropolitan city of Cincinnati, I perceived gun usage as uncivilized, because criminals continued to use firearms to threaten the public. After graduating Ohio University and having become a longtime resident of southeastern Ohio for six years now (and having many friends who are active sportsmen), I've come to realize that gun ownership and usage is beneficial - and as a sport very enjoyable. I've grown more throughout the past year than even I could have imagined. In February, I contacted the Ohio CCW Organization and e-mailed back and forth with Rick Jones about my interest in firearm protection and CCW. Rick was incredibly helpful and led me in the right direction to obtaining a CCW license and using firearms in a protective and safe way. After our conversations and education on my part, my passion to learn, enjoy and protect the rights of gun owners increased dramatically. Today, I am the proud owner of a firearm and a licensed CCW permit holder. As a man of conviction and integrity, I admit that I was wrong about this issue. I believe CCW is an effective way to protect one's self and is a right I am proud to support. While I still oppose bumper stickers that say "Keep Honking, I'm Reloading" and the radical extremists, I truly am thankful for the help of the good people of the Ohio CCW. I would recommend to anyone seeking instant protection from threat and an enjoyable sport to take the CCW class and obtain a permit to carry. I promise you, you won't regret it! Joshua L Wolf Dorr Run Road Nelsonville Commentary from OFCC Senate District 14 Coordinator Rick Jones: It takes a big man to admit when he is wrong!! For many years Mr. Wolf has had the idea that “all guns were bad”. Through his determination in searching for the truth, and with the assistance of numerous OFCC volunteers helping him it seems that Mr. Wolf has found his answers. Now he has stated that he finally feels safer at home and when he is out and about doing his daily chores. He has also learned that he now has something that will last a lifetime, and that is the shooting sports as well as being able to protect himself and his loved ones should the unfortunate instance occur. Yes it does take a big man to admit he was wrong in his ideas and Mr. Wolf should be congratulated on his decisions. |