Folsom gun policy, Ami Bera, DeMarcus Cousins
Base policy on fact, not fantasy
Re “Folsom Cordova Unified reveals policy letting some have guns on campus” (Page 1A, March 8): The notion that a Folsom Cordova school staff member with a concealed gun in a locker is going to stop an active shooter on campus is pure fantasy.
An FBI report of active shooter incidents from 2000 to 2013 showed that in only one out of 160 cases an armed bystander carrying a concealed weapon was able to stop the shooter. A Texas study showed that persons with concealed weapons permits were arrested for weapons-related crimes at a rate that was almost twice that of the general population.
The Violence Policy Center has documented 500 shootings by concealed weapons permit holders nationwide over the past six years, including 29 mass shootings and numerous shootings on school campuses. The Folsom Cordova School District should adopt a gun policy based on fact, not on fantasy.
Dr. Bill Durston, Gold River
Bera’s candor is refreshing
Re “Locked in a tight race, Bera draws crucial distinctions” (Insight, March 10): Kudos to Rep. Ami Bera, D-Elk Grove. He doesn’t denigrate his opponent; he simply identifies where the two differ on significant issues.
He doesn’t hide from his positions on contested issues, nor does he belittle or criticize others who disagree with him. And he seems to believe in doing what is best for his country, his district, and all his constituents, rather than what will benefit his political party or personal career.
A pity so few politicians don’t share his wisdom, temperament and equanimity.
Daniel Broderick, Sacramento
Cousins has worn out welcome
Re “This time, Cousins banned for 1 game” (Sports, March 11): After five years of hoping he would grow up, I suggest it’s time for the Kings to cut ties with DeMarcus Cousins.
While he is certainly a talented player, it’s obvious to anyone who watches the Kings that he is miserable in Sacramento, or maybe he’s just miserable, period. Whether arguing every call, yelling at his coach, or just being a general pain in the neck, he is toxic to team morale. I’m sure the players agree, though they won’t comment publicly. Can you imagine going to work every day where an employee blows up at the smallest thing, only to have management turn a blind eye? This doesn’t fly in business or in a team sport like basketball.
We’ve quit following Kings games. It’s too infuriating to watch this behavior night after night.
Kevin Reinard, Folsom
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This story was originally published March 11, 2016 at 10:00 PM with the headline "Folsom gun policy, Ami Bera, DeMarcus Cousins."