THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, February 16, 1997 TAG: 9702140014
SECTION: COMMENTARY PAGE: J4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 35 lines
I was inspired to write this letter in wake of the recent senseless killing of Timothy Wheaton in Virginia Beach.
Like most people, I was distressed and outraged by the incident. However, to grieve for the surviving family members, his friends and classmates is not enough anymore. It is time we put an end to the escalating crime and violence that permeate our daily existence.
A native Virginian, I have lived the last 25 years out of state. Most recently, I have lived in the Philadelphia area and can tell you firsthand that the former ``City of Brotherly Love'' is a haven for daily gang-related activity.
Compared to Philadelphia, the Hampton Roads community is, I realize, relatively tame. Nevertheless, crime and violence seem to thrive here as well.
So when will the madness end? It will end only when we finally decide to vote for legislators with a backbone who will not compromise themselves under the heel of the special interests (money) and will rid the country of the wholesale distribution of guns and other lethal weapons.
It will end when the profit-mongers of Hollywood cease brainwashing society with those retread movies and television programs that romanticize the use of firearms (and now bombs).
It will end when the entire media do more to influence our courts and lawgivers in the way of prosecuting those who commit the violence instead of just reporting the daily bloodshed as something ``entertaining.''
Yes, it will only end when we finally open our eyes and hold ourselves accountable for what happens in our cities and neighborhoods.
THOMAS KUBIZEK
Virginia Beach, Feb. 4, 1997