Make illegal firearms harder to obtain
Almost every week the news media outlets report on gun violence via newspaper, television and radio. Reporting on shootouts, illegally carrying a firearm and illegal gun sales are most prevalent. Many of the shootings reported are fatal and a lot of this is the result of impulsive anger.
Current proposals to solve gun violence problems don’t work. Community engagement is unsuccessful, law enforcement is on edge, and gun store owners don’t have an incentive to help. Therefore, elected officials need to pass alternative versions of stronger laws. Our police officers have to create more resources for protecting the innocent people in the public from any havoc.
Elected officials must change our culture and our policies to stop this cycle of violence, because families, communities and certain places in the country are witnessing or experiencing these terrible daily tragedies.
Political representatives have to act to combat this gun violence crisis. For example, gun violence prevention programs supported by legislation, policy and legal action should be instituted in more communities.
The conversation among all races should continue on ending gun violence. Engaging responsible dialogue among gun manufacturers, stores and rightful owners discussing solutions must happen more often. It is unlikely that guns could be completely eradicated, but firearms should be harder to obtain. In the long run, it is up to our elected officials and police officers to make these changes, securing safety.
Alim Howell
Welcome, Katie Hanford
As a lifelong resident of the East Passyunk Avenue community, I was fascinated by Mark Zimmaro’s report on Katie Hanford (“East Passyunk BID’s new leader,” Sept. 4).
Katie Hanford, as the recently hired leader of the East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District, is already making an impact. Our neighborhood has already been thriving due to all the positive support we have been getting from the EPABID. And the work goes on.
I grew up on the 1600 block of East Passyunk Avenue and moved just around the corner when I got married. So I have witnessed numerous changes to our neighborhood. We are always attracting new businesses, especially restaurants, and wonderful new neighbors. Really, this community has become a melting pot of families from all over the country and world.
I always tell others that one of the signs of a thriving neighborhood is the multitude of young people walking their babies and dogs.
A recent example of Hanford’s new leadership was the summer-long event on East Passyunk Avenue called Passeggiata Thursday. So from 5 to 7 p.m. every Thursday, residents could enjoy an Italian-style promenade with outdoor specials from local bars and shops.
It is hard to express how much gratitude so many of us have to reside in this vibrant community. We feel privileged to live here and able to enjoy so many activities, places to eat and shop, plus the company of so many new arrivals.
So, welcome to Katie Hanford and all the new ideas for growth that she brings to our neighborhood.
Gloria C. Endres
