What will stop

the mindless killings?

Editor, OBSERVER:

Guns absolutely do not kill people! People kill people! The choice of the weapon is decided by the killer.

Some use guns, some use knives, hammers or pipes. Some use automobiles, swords, a fist or poison. We know terrorists have used airplanes.

Some use bombs, such as Timothy McVeigh. The military uses whatever the Government dictates.

About 2,000 years ago, three Spikes and a Cross was the weapon.

The blame for the killings cannot be put on the weapon!

The heart of the killer needs to be changed!

Start, by making it illegal to own or sell, violent videos, violent computer games and violent movies.

America’s politicians need to take a stand for the Word of God and deny all lobbyists, who are attempting to destroy the morals of America, just for their own profit.

God’s Word Is Truth, and needs to be read more and more in schools and in government, lest you forget our founding fathers.

VICTOR RICHARDSON,

Brocton

Compassion evident

by state with elephants

Editor, OBSERVER:

In October, the Elephant Protection Act (S2098B/A464B) was signed into legislation by Governor Andrew Cuomo. He is quoted on New York state’s website www.governor.ny.gov as saying, “The use of elephants in these types of settings (circuses, carnivals, parades, or trade shows) is dangerous to their health and potentially abusive.”

For many years, advocates for animals have been expressing the very same sentiments. It was over 20 years ago when I joined in the struggle to bring attention to the plight of these magnificent animals and the living conditions they were forced to endure for “entertainment” purposes.

I recall one individual at that time predicting that within 10 years, elephants in circuses would become a thing of the past. It has actually taken more than a decade longer, and there is still work to be done to convince every state in our country to follow New York’s compassionate example.

The long and uphill battle waged by activists for any cause can include letters to policy makers and newspapers, tabling at community events, staging protests and more. The efforts can seem hopeless and difficult at times. I can attest that taking part in protests could be uncomfortable; however, I knew the animals’ discomfort far outweighed mine.

But legislation like this is validation that all the efforts are worth it and that our policymakers will listen and do care. Their work and success on this Act has inspired me, and I hope it inspires others to carry on and to never give up when a cause is for justice — whether it is for animals, children, the elderly, the disabled, the exploited or others. Although anthropologist Margaret Mead’s famous quote has been shared innumerable times, her words have rung true again and again, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

A great deal of thanks is owed to Cuomo and those who voted for the Elephant Protection Act. They have set an example of empathy and kindness in helping those who cannot help themselves.

CHRISTINE WIGREN,

Jamestown