This is a slippery slope

A wiser man than I once said that the problem with national policies is that we all pay the bill even if that policy is not to our benefit. This why the original Founding Fathers sought to minimize federal government and give over policy making to the states. The bills being discussed by Congress, as usual, do not address the real causes of our gun problem. One of the proposed solutions is expanding background checks. This is as unenforceable as trying to dictate the color of the wine I have with my fish dinner. Further, it cannot even be implemented, since private citizens cannot do a background check even if they wanted. This exposes the real aim, criminalize private commerce and drive all sales to “authorized” dealers. There we have a handy repository of records and an ideal control situation. Everybody see that one coming? This is a slippery slope upon which to set foot. Those political figures that deny this are not being honest and probably have another motive; like a Democratic governor trying to add bricks to his platform for a later run at higher office?

Michael S. Welsh

Colorado Springs

For a ‘cooler’ reputation

I am not thrilled that Colorado Springs Utilities has agreed to purchase more uneconomical solar power seemingly to give the city a greener reputation. Early purchasers in the solar garden had the ability, if they wished, to pay more for alternatively produced electricity. I opted not to, which my wish. Now some on City Council want, for the sake of having cutting edge technology or a “cooler” reputation, my electrical bill to increase.

The solar panels being used are being subsidized by federal tax credits paid for by you and me and now Utilities will dip into my pocket each month that City Council can feel better about themselves. I can accept the 3-9 percent rate increase each month with some grumbling but just ask large electrical users who see increases in the tens of thousand of dollars each month how happy they are. I am not a technological Luddite and while I love the idea of solar panels, they are not on my roof today because they are just not competitive with conventionally generated electricity with or without federal or local subsidies.

Chris Fallis

Colorado Springs

No amount of common sense

Why do people who love guns feel they are more important than people who want to feel safe from guns? America has proven, over many years, that without question having guns recklessly accessible can have a very, very horrific outcome. The majority of Americans agree that there is no reason to own or have available an automatic weapon. Gun zealots use the Constitution to pretend they are being denied their rights as Americans when limitations are suggested.

Of course, there are many careful, responsible gun owners, there are also many careful, responsible car drivers, but it makes a lot of sense to have speed limits and other limitations to using cars. Seat belts save lives even though thousands initially objected to the legislation for them.

Background checks and other reasonable legislated provisions will subsequently save lives also. Safety is the factor that speaks to all of us. Prevention over arming up.

It seems like no amount of common sense or intellectual consideration can reach people who cling to their weapons. Anyone out there who believes in reasonable weapon bans and meaningful background checks must please reach out to your lawmakers today!

Christie Garrison

Colorado Springs

Those days are but a memory

It is truly a sad state of affairs when the leader of North Korea goes unchallenged in his quest for world recognition. While our Campaigner-in-Chief pursues his personal agenda, he sends two of his obsequious minions out to proclaim his usual prattle that the world is really unhappy with North Korea. Meanwhile, our military officers recognize a threat, and are preparing for it.

In the past, we have presidents with the moral courage to confront idiots like the immature child in North Korea and to tell them in no uncertain terms to shut up — that if you take any overt military action against us or any of all allies, the fierce might of the United States of America will descend upon you. Sadly, those days are but a memory.

Joseph R. Simkins

Colorado Springs

In the face of strong headwinds

Colorado Springs residents should be proud of John Morse. He has taken a stand to support economic growth in Colorado in the face of strong headwinds. His support of SB252 will extend our clean energy electricity standard so that it better serves our rural communities. Our renewable energy standard was established in 2004 by the voters and has been supported and increased by a majority of our Colorado state legislators from both parties during several sessions.

It has provided the basis for nearly 10,000 jobs in the state, attracted a number of large and small manufacturing, construction and installation business operations to be located here, and has provided diversity to our economic portfolio.

His support of this bill to expand the opportunities for renewable energy in rural areas served by electricity cooperatives will bring these benefits to our farm and ranch communities across the state. He faces opposition from those who are afraid of the change in regulations necessary to give these new opportunities equal footing in the competitive energy marketplace.

As a 30-year resident of Colorado Springs, I support his efforts to move us forward. Please support Morse and those joining in this effort to pass SB252.

Lisa Tormoen Hickey

Colorado Springs