I sent a less polemic version (changed the WTFs to WTH (What The Hell)) to the editor as follows:
Jesus H. Christ -- right out of 1984!
"Norman Ray, another neighbor, praised the police for their efforts. "I have a lot of confidence in our police department," he said. "I thank them for breaking up this gang or getting those guns and drugs out of there."
Both were shocked to learn about the anti-government brochures and tapes found in Mr. Burtner's house. "We had no idea about anything like that," Mr. Ray said."
WTF #1 - "Mr. Burtner . . . was charged with weapons violations . . ." and "The arsenal included rifles, shotguns, assault and sniper rifles [oh, those words again - Oatka]"
"ALL OF THE GUNS WERE LEGAL TO OWN - [my emphasis]!!!
WTF #2 - ". . . uncovering anti-government propaganda . . ."
THIS IS A CRIME?
WTF #3 - ". . . and anti-government literature and videotapes, including one titled, "Waco: The Lie." Mr. Rolle said the FBI's anti-terrorism unit was interested in reviewing the propaganda."
WHY? See #2.
WTF #4 - "Bumper stickers on a vehicle in the driveway say "I (heart symbol) assault weapons," "Gun Control = People Control," "Say No to the New World Order. Keep America Independent" and "Gun Control, Simple Solution for Simple Minds." "
WHY IS THIS PERTINENT? See #2.
WTF #5 - "Upon learning about the arsenal stored in the house next door, Ms. Huffer said, "I was shocked. It's scary. We have three children. ..." She said the fact that drugs were found came as no surprise. "There was always a lot of traffic in and out over there," she said. "... Always a lot of people coming and going. ..." "
SO, THIS AIRHEAD ISN'T THAT CONCERNED ABOUT DRUGS, BUT SHE'S SCARED OF GUNS!
Some people call your state The Planet Mayland, which I thought was a bit harsh, but after reading the comments of these so-called neighbors, I have to agree.
The letter to the Ed URL is:
http://www.fredericknewspost.com/contact/contactfinalnew.cfm?contact=letters
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The New World Order has a Third Reich odor.