|
|
|
May 19, 2000/14 Iyar 5760, Vol. 52, No.37
Letters to the EditorMay 19, 2000
Enforce laws now on booksEditor:I don't understand why the Million Mom March is advocating more gun control laws (Jewish News, May 5). There are already plenty of laws, but they are not being enforced. Rather than applauding the Clinton administration for calling for more laws, gun control advocates such as the Million Moms should admonish Clinton for not enforcing the existing laws. Howard Levine (Via the Internet) Write letters to free MechanicEditor:Thank you for printing the commentary by Ann Polunsky about Howard Mechanic (Jewish News, May 12). Last year, Howard Mechanic sat at my dining room table for the first Passover seder. This year, he spent that night in prison. As we all gathered around the seder table this year in celebration and remembrance of the freedom we enjoy, we prayed that Howard will be able to join us at the table again next year. Howard's attorney has filed the paperwork requesting a commutation. If granted by President Clinton, Howard would be released immediately and then could request a presidential pardon. Please write to President Clinton and to your legislators, supporting a commutation, and then a pardon from President Clinton for Howard. For more information, visit the Web site, www.howardmechanic.org. Ingrid Gold Scottsdale (Via the Internet) Editor's note: Ingrid Gold is the former wife of Howard Mechanic. Community stands silentEditor:Referring to the commentary regarding Howard Mechanic written by Ann Polunsky (Jewish News, May 12), I agree with Polunsky's perception that the Jewish community has been silent about the Howard Mechanic case. I have some doubt concerning Polunsky's statement that there is sufficient evidence to prove that Mechanic was unjustly convicted of a crime "he did not commit," unless she had the opportunity to review the grand jury and trial testimony in its entirety. Mechanic had sufficient time within the guidelines to appeal his conviction but chose instead to become a fugitive. He did commit a crime and must be held accountable for his actions. Ours is a nation of laws. I do agree with Polunsky's observations of the lack of support for Mechanic by the Jewish community. Jews seem to take a wait-and-see attitude as moderates. Perhaps more Jews who support him should stand up and be counted. Martin Garret (Via the Internet)
|
