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Election Letters, Oct. 14 Friday Oct 14, 2016 at 12:01 AM Trump will protect gun rights In the Second Amendment to the Constitution it is clearly stated that, “the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” Thomas Jefferson made this clear when he said, “No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms.” Jefferson said it simpler and wiser than any man after him when he wrote a letter to James Madison in December of 1787 and said, “The laws that forbid the carrying of arms are laws of such a nature. They disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to commit crimes.” When you take the guns out of the hands of lawful citizens it makes them an easier target for criminals. Unlike Hillary Clinton, Donald Trump understands this. As president, Trump will preserve and protect our birth right as Americans to bear arms and protect ourselves against all threats both foreign and domestic. Killian Yates Central Point Avakian for Secretary of State Brad Avakian has a long proven record of accomplishment from his time in public service. He was elected to the Oregon House of Representatives in 2004 and to the State Senate in 2006 before being appointed to be commissioner of the Bureau of Labor and Industries by then Gov. Ted Kulongoski in 2008. Among his top accomplishments are recovering more than $25 million for workers who have been treated unfairly and holding corporations accountable for unfair treatment of workers. He has consistently stood up for the rights of the LGBT community by sponsoring legislation to ensure Oregonians are not treated unfairly because of who they love. He worked with the Legislature in the passing of mandatory paid sick leave. I’ve lived in the Rogue Valley my whole life, and I know that Brad Avakian would help not just the valley, but all of Oregon. Tristan Perrotti White City Vote for Heritage District Please join me in voting “Yes” on creating the Rogue Valley Heritage District. The 15 historical societies and genealogical societies in Jackson County have struggled financially for years to preserve our shared history (over 3 million different artifacts, images and items in total). They are our conduits from the past to the present, not to mention their numerous free or low-cost programs that many of us have enjoyed, at one time or the other. From Jacksonville to Eagle Point and Ashland to the City of Rogue River, think about your interest: the unique history of your family, home, area, or a fun time during Halloween, Christmas, spring, or the summer. There is a historical society close to you. What’s the cost? Less than $8 per year for the average property — and the best value we can find. Dennis Powers Ashland Is Donald Trump for real? Some believe Donald Trump will benefit common folks, not elites. That he goes beyond political correctness. That he’ll run government efficiently given his experience in business and resulting wealth. That he’ll make our country great again. Unfortunately Trump’s record undermines such ideas. He stiffs employees and small businesses he contracts with, filed bankruptcy four times, and self-admittedly doesn’t pay taxes himself; he’d lower taxes for rich buddies, manufactures goods overseas and employs migrant workers. Benefit the common man? Efficient? — not really! He supports our enemy, Russia’s Putin, does business with Putin’s associates, encourages their hacking U.S. systems. He advocates undermining our allies. His statements documentedly feed Islamic radicals’ recruitment. Make America great again? Not really! He constantly bullies, name calls and lies. Are these answers to political correctness and spin? Not really. Unfortunately Trump’s campaign is a great con game. Examine his statements and behavior. Robert John Scheelen Medford The Alinsky method Know about the Saul Alinsky method of elections? Obama and Clinton do. They learned the method in college; discredit and demean your opponent to distract from the issues. It is simple, but works, This worked well against Romney. Distraction: It works even better when the media over-exaggerates and drags out really stupid incidents that have nothing to do with remedying our problems; the soaring debt and the economy, terrorism, simplifying code/regulations, restoring our damaged military, and the border. All have worsened the last seven years. The first two Democratic debates did even touch on these subjects. Astonishingly, they have their heads in the sand. Probably because they can’t refer to their record of the last seven years. Then they say others who are aware of present situations are using scare tactics. It’s amazing we have this polarization, except that the Alinsky method words. Rosemary Nuvell Medford Endorsing Wall I am endorsing Jocie Wall for mayor of Jacksonville. Watching her serve as our councilor for the last four years has shown everyone that she is a capable seeker of facts and truth in decision making, she displays patience and diplomacy when confronted with adverse or hostile situations, she can be tough and tenacious when it is required, and she is thoughtful and respectful always. As a successful business owner and mother, she is savvy, perceptive, fair and a great listener. As mayor of Jacksonville she will be a true citizen's advocate and will preside over council meetings in a friendly and welcoming way, encouraging everyone's input on important town decision making. With her help we can keep Jacksonville enjoyable and fun for visitors and enjoyable and livable for its residents, as we take our unique little gem of a town into the future. Vote Jocie Wall mayor. Leona Sewitsky Jacksonville Vote for Moro Voters have an opportunity to do something special this election. There are four well-qualified women candidates on the ballot, from president to governor to State Senate and House of Representatives. I encourage you to give each your thoughtful consideration. All share a common core of values and goals to make government work for everyone, not just the well-off. They will take on issues of public concern that Republicans stay away from. Consider Tonia Moro for State Senate District 3. She will work for progressive legislation and continue the good deeds of Alan Bates. She won't turn her back on climate change, health care, public education funding and making the tax system more fair. She has shown her true colors by her work in the community, especially for improving public transportation. There is a reason why she has such strong support. Vote for her; she will do well. Steve Haskell Ashland Give space to third parties Bias? It can’t be ... I know that the Mail Tribune is left-leaning, but have seen hints of at least an attempt to be fair. At least give the appearance of "fair and balanced." Instead of the sensationally stupid thing he or she did, give us some real basis to decide whom to vote for. Or better yet, give some space to Gary Johnson (the best candidate) and Jill Stein. Illuminate your readers about what the other parties stand for, rather than being a shill for the Democrats. In this particular election, both of the main candidates are equally flawed, and it might be good to point out there are alternatives. If you were to list the goals of all of the parties, and not label them, most people would probably identify with the Libertarian party. Larry Fields Medford Conflict of interest I recently received a mailer stating "What do economists say about Measure 97?" The three professors touting passage of measure 97 are all on PERS retirement, and passage of 97 will pump life into the failing PERS program. Conflict of interest? You decide. Vote no on 97. It is a hidden tax to fund the failing PERS program. Chuck Brook Medford Yes on 97 for education As the son of two teachers, the desperate state of our schools comes up in my family conversations with an alarming frequency. The story never seems to change: School funding decreases, class sizes keep growing, and vital services for our students get cut. It is a downward spiral that has left Oregon where we are today, burdened with the fourth-worst high school graduation rate in the country. This is absolutely unacceptable. Our kids deserve better, and Oregon’s future depends on our doing better by them. I’m voting yes on Measure 97 because it will help educate our children for the jobs and challenges of the future. The ballot measure will move Oregon from dead last in corporate taxes just by ensuring that corporations that do over $25 million in state sales pay their fair share. Please support our teachers and our kids by joining me in voting yes on 97. John Roberts Central Point Vote for Kepple Todd Kepple is running for State Senate District 28. I’ve known Kepple for over 10 years and have been impressed with his commitment to helping Southern Oregon. Todd Kepple undertook a project to provide each fourth- grader in Klamath County with a book on the history of our area. It was a significant undertaking and Kepple was tireless in pursuing this project. All I can say is “Wow,” what an excellent booklet on the significant historical events in the Southern Oregon. Todd worked with people, listened to all parties and produced a book that truly educates. For many years Todd has worked to provide services that involve education, historical activities and community events to make our community a better place. This is the type of person we need working for us in the State Senate in Salem. Don Mausshardt Klamath Falls No on 97 For the following reasons, vote no on Measure 97. 1. Measure 97 will increase the Oregon budget 33 percent. 2. Measure 97 will cause the loss of many jobs in small and large businesses. 3. Some business owners have stated that they will leave the state if Measure 97 passes (Lithia Motors for one). 4. We do not need the state government to get one-third larger — we are already paying more than most other states. For example: property taxes increase 3 percent annually (and are compounded). 5. We have plenty of money at current levels if we spend wisely (a new concept for some of our leaders). We are tired of all the corruption in all forms of government. 6. We have a failed, dysfunctional government. Why in the world would we want to give them more of our hard-earned money? Once again, Vote no on Measure 97. Gordon DeVos Medford Voting for Kepple My vote for state senator for the 28th District goes to Todd Kepple. A seasoned politician he is not. However, my 10-year association with him, primarily through the Klamath County Museum Advisory Board, leaves me with no doubt that he has the qualities that I want in a state legislator. Much has been said about the "maneuver" whereby Dennis Linthicum came to be the only candidate on the ballot — until a concerned, community-minded person in the form of Todd Kepple decided to run. Yes, he is a Republican running as a Democrat, because that was the best option left open to him. Do I care what label is affixed to his name on the ballot? No, because I know Todd Kepple as a longtime Klamath County resident who has an agenda I agree with. People first, balance the budget, Second Amendment rights and a clear commitment to do the right thing for the constituents of this district. That is what I care about. I encourage your vote for Todd Kepple for state senator. Rich Touslee Klamath Falls Kepple will be effective The State Senate candidate for District 28 will face three critical challenges when elected: 1. Citizens expect him to fairly reflect local values, interests and needs throughout his legislative career. 2. He must introduce himself to fellow legislators on both sides of the aisle and the administration in a manner to become and remain relevant. 3. He must become conversant with existing and proposed legislation; must understand the complexities of useful representation, then, move to achieve the art of the possible. Who is likely to become the effective legislator? Who is flexible enough to understand situational complexities, figure useful strategies, achieve goals, grow and maintain relationships for future representational achievements? Todd Kepple listens, assesses the unfolding situation, discusses to verify, then moves to provide broad representative leadership (keppleforsenate.com; Facebook.com/keppleforsenate). Dennis Linthicum’s track record as Klamath County Commissioner does not show this capability. His campaign banner states,” I will not compromise.” Chuck Wells, Klamath County Democratic Central Committee Klamath Falls The real culprit In her letter published Oct. 6, Ms. Webb advises that we "save our state," by voting in favor of Measure 97. She, like so many Oregonians, are willing to let state lawmakers shrink from facing our financing problems head-on. Their answer: We can't figure this out; let someone else pay the bill. Measure 97 is Salem's easy answer to solving a very intractable problem, PERS. But she reveals the real culprit in her last sentence: "Our tax structure is one of the worst in the nation, as proved by nearly every analysis ever done." She said it, I didn't. But she's nailed the nub of the problem. Until our elected representatives truly deal with how to realistically raise tax dollars to pay for all the benefits they hand out they will always be looking for another wallet to pick. Tom Eaton Eagle Point Voting for Anhorn Here is why I'm voting for John Anhorn for mayor. And I urge my fellow citizens to do the same: Gary Wheeler has been the mayor of Medford for 12 years now. That is simply too long! We need a change and we need new blood to provide leadership and direction to the the city. John Anhorn is the man to do that. There is a growing disconnect between the mayor and the City Council. The latest debacle in the hiring of the city manager is a great example of this. There is currently very little cooperation between the city and the county. In order to make our community an even better place to live, this cooperation is essential. John Anhorn has the experience, leadership and vision to accomplish all of these and more. Gary Wheeler does not. Vote John Anhorn for mayor! Bill Freda Medford Dump Trump If you haven't been on the planet Blort for the last year, you've undoubtedly had the opportunity to see and hear our presidential candidates in action. You've heard Hillary speak in quiet, measured tones about real issues and real plans for the future, while on the other side, you've heard Trump spew insults in every direction and wax incoherent about this or that person or issue, including a beauty contestant about 10 years back. Any of you ladies out there must positively adore being called “pigs” or “dogs”, because that's what your hero thinks of you when a coherent picture of his mind's inner workings appears, that is. Who you vote for is your business and your right, but just keep in mind it's our future and our nation at stake here. William Mac Bean Central Point Vote no on 97 Oregonians have voted against the dreaded sales tax several times in the past, and yet many are now backing Measure 97, thinking that this gross receipts tax would only be paid by those big bad corporations. But the very people that supporters want to help — the elderly on fixed incomes, the poor, our children — will be the very ones hurt the most by the increased prices caused by this measure. A direct sales tax would at least exempt certain basic needs, such as food, medicine, clothing, etc. to make it less regressive. This tax exempts nothing. That's why it's been called a sales tax on steroids. Last month at a League of Women Voters debate, the proponents actually admitted that the measure is flawed and it would have to undergo legislative revision before becoming effective! Please do your homework and vote no on Measure 97. Sally Densmore Medford Why retain Walden? Given the revelations this past week or so concerning the Republican candidate for the highest office in the land, and given the apparently unswerving devotion Southern and Eastern Oregon's very own contribution to Congress, Greg Walden, apparently has for Donald Trump, is the Mail Tribune going to reconsider their endorsement of Walden ? Paraphrasing your own words, Walden usually puts party ahead of principle and his constituency. So why should he be retained in office to further feather his own nest, and continue selling those of us who don't vote for him even further down the river? Ed Cooper Gold Hill Another attorney? Do we really need another attorney in Salem? Vote for Alan Deboer if you want someone that creates jobs and supports local schools and communities and not a Salem agenda. Donald Politis Ashland Are there no limits? You supported him when he called Mexicans "rapists." You supported him when he called for a ban on all Muslim immigration. You supported him when he proposed torturing suspected terrorists and the targeting of the families of our enemies. You supported him when he demeaned the service of John McCain, made jokes about earning a Purple Heart and insulted a Gold Star family. You supported him when he insulted women, made fun of the disabled and mocked his opponent's illness. You supported him when he boasted about how smart it was for a billionaire to avoid paying taxes and stiffing small businesses who had worked for him. Now that you've seen him boast about being a sexual predator, do you still support him? Are there any limits at all to your party loyalty? Are character, morality and simple human decency no longer a minimum qualification for the presidency? Claude Aron Medford Proof supplied If we needed any more proof that he is totally unfit to be the leader of the free world, Donald just supplied it. He still believes the "Central Park Five" are guilty and should face the death penalty, even though DNA and another confession have absolved them of any wrongdoing. And a tape has just surfaced of Trump giving a class on sexual assault — how to. Unfortunately, the powers that be in the Republican Party are desperately clinging to him as a warm body to sign into law their political agenda — more tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans, eliminating environmental protections and loading the Supreme Court with far-right justices who will not have the best interests of the average American at heart. I don't even want to contemplate a Trump administration with all his alt-right buddies. Jean Strong Medford