A device called a "bump stock" is attached to a semi-automatic rifle at the Gun Vault store and shooting range in South Jordan, Utah. The National Rifle Association announced its support Oct. 5 for regulating the devices that can effectively convert semi-automatic rifles into fully automated weapons and that were apparently used in the Las Vegas massacre to lethal effect.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Who in their right mind would offer access to our cyber-defense software to Russia or any other entity? (Oct. 3, “U.S. firm let Russia agency review software used by Pentagon.”)
And where is the government oversight? This is like giving a robber the garage door opener and saying that the door to the laundry room is locked so “not to worry.” I wouldn’t sell the Russian government the first edition of Atari, let alone the key to our defense system.
LeROY DUNLAP
Holland
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Las Vegas massacre was not a surprise
In Las Vegas, there was another gun massacre, and why are we surprised? This country is riddled with guns.
Has anyone noticed that recently in France, terrorists armed with knives, in separate incidents, went on rampages and killed three people. Notice the difference? It was 58 people killed in Las Vegas.
Where were the people with concealed or open carry who were supposed to protect everyone? The element of surprise cancels out that argument for more guns.
Is it easy to know when a follower of Islam will become radicalized? No. Is it easy to predict when a mentally ill person will be a danger to others? No. Is it easy to limit access to assault weapons? Yes.
MARILYN BOWLUS
Pemberville
Diocese of Toledo does right thing
Kudos to the Diocese of Toledo for the strong directive to their students to show the proper respect that our national anthem and pledge of allegiance deserve (Sept. 29, “Local Catholic students could face discipline for kneeling during anthem, pledge”).
Kneeling has a proper time and place — like for prayer — and there’s plenty of room in all the churches in the diocese to help with that too. It’s just that simple.
JASON BISSELL
Middlesex Drive
Blaine had a noble mission
Pope Francis has said, in so many words, that people may need to “make a mess” when something needs to be stirred up.
I remember very clearly how Barbara Blaine was maligned for doing just this regarding clergy abuse. Thanks to The Blade for the tribute to Ms. Blaine and the work she did to draw attention to clergy abuse and her efforts to initiate a process of healing for victims.
DOROTHY HAVERBUSCH
Oak Tree Place