Letter to the editor:
Recently there was an annual “family festival” in Roscommon meant for all of Michigan. I visited this festival several times over the years, and again last year.
I didn’t go this year because of the bad behavior of many there last year. I saw nasty political flags flying with vulgar language at this “family festival.” I also saw many wearing guns on their hips very openly; some seemed drunk as they were dancing and stumbling with a cup in their hand.
The committee of this “family festival” told me they voted to not allow any political vendors or booths. That’s great, we are not all in one political party. However, they told me they would not trample anyone’s rights when it came to guns.
I grew up having guns in the home, and learned how to shoot guns, as did my husband. I still have my great uncle’s gun in the cabin he built and lived in. We both had military and hunters in our families and my parents were bikers too (as were all their friends).
We don’t tremble at the mere sight of a gun, but some people do. We have respect and are responsible with our guns. Some people do not.
Another woman asked this “family festival” committee if guns were allowed. She said she planned on bringing a group of special needs students who might be traumatized by the sight of a gun (school/mass shootings).
The committee stated that they would not trample anyone’s constitutional rights. What about the (rights of the) kids? If this is a “family festival” shouldn’t it be open and safe for all to enjoy? Is it really safe (or smart) to allow guns along with a beer tent?
Does this seem respectful and responsible? It certainly doesn’t to me, and many others.
Donna Russell
Roscommon
