I don’t consider the civilian AR-15 a ‘weapon of war.’ Gun terminology matters | Opinion

Not for war

The Star’s June 15 guest commentary “Our senators must listen on assault weapons reform” (12A) called the AR-15 a “weapon of war.” The AR-15 was first sold to civilians as a semiautomatic rifle. The design was modified to fully automatic and sold to the military as the M-16.

I have not been able to find an instance of the AR-15 being a military weapon, much less a “weapon of war.” If the anti-gun rights crowd relies on such obvious misinformation, why should we believe its other arguments?

- Kevin L. Jamison, Gladstone

Public service

I would like to express my gratitude to Stacey Johnson-Cosby for organizing tax assessment appeal workshops that attracted thousands of people to three packed meetings, widely reported on by the press.

Johnson-Cosby provided a free valuable service to desperate residents with nowhere else to turn. She disseminated information by gathering a diverse group of real estate experts to give freely of their time and help confused taxpayers.

One might think the workshops were organized by Jackson County, but that is not the case. Johnson-Cosby saw a desperate need in the community and rose to the occasion, using her expertise and connections to help thousands of residents navigate a complex system. As a result of her efforts, people like me have been empowered to make our case before the county.

I have no doubt Johnson-Cosby is personally responsible for ensuring that some residents remain in their homes, a result for which she is to be commended.

- David Young, Kansas City

Speaks for us

Finally, an opinion piece published in The Star that justifies paying the subscription fees. Heritage Foundation researcher Gillian Richards reminds us of our founding principals and speaks truth to us all with the July 2 commentary, “Americans’ dismissal of religion doesn’t bode well for the republic.” (17A)

Thank you for printing this opinion. I dare to hope for more in the same mode.

- Donna Heit, Overland Park

To follow Jesus

Gillian Richards’ July 2 commentary addresses what may or may not be a problem in the ethical and moral standing of our country. I suggest that Richards consider more deeply what the history of Christian-based rule has wrought in our country — as well as in Europe — and whether her recipe for dealing with our future is suitable or simplistic.

The author evidently has not learned about the many despicable and tragic acts carried out in the name of Jesus, including but not limited to the conquering and enslavement of indigenous peoples and the enslavement of Africans who were thought to be better in bondage and “saved” than free.

I attempt to follow the teaching and, especially, the example of conduct that Jesus embodied. I don’t understand how some of today’s Christian behavior and thought embodies Jesus’ examples of love, patience and kindness for all — even those of whom we are most afraid and share the least in background and lifestyle.

- Steve Schwegler, Liberty

Seek justice

I have been a loyal subscriber of The Kansas City Star for more than 50 years. I can honestly say that I don’t read every article each day, but I can definitely attest that I never miss and read thoroughly any opinion piece written by Melinda Henneberger. She is a champion of individuals who have been dealt with poorly and certainly deserve better. (July 3, 7A, “Kansas disciplinary office gives problem prosecutor Terra Morehead a pass”)

I applaud Ms. Henneberger for her well-written and thought-provoking pieces. I only hope that the wrongs she is exposing will be dealt with and not be swept under the rug. Especially now in our chaotic world, we need to stand up for what is right and uncover injustice wherever it occurs. She does just that, and I thank her.

- Marianne Weber, Roeland Park

This story was originally published July 6, 2023 at 5:02 AM.