Don’t give in to fear

I, for one, certainly feel relieved that U.S. Fish and Wildlife administrators at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge near Cheney closed the refuge to the public “out of an abundance of caution.” I realize it’s a tempting target for takeover by armed domestic terrorists, copycat criminals in the mold of Cliven and Ammon Bundy, as cited as a concern.

So, I’m suggesting authorities also shut down all the courthouses, banks, pharmacies and public schools because these are not only potential targets of armed criminals, but actual targets. Oh, and don’t forget Planned Parenthood clinics (like the one in Pullman that was intentionally burned down by a righteous religious crusader).

As Americans, concerned above all else for our safety, we should always acquiesce to those who threaten us, even though it facilitates and glorifies their actions.

Of course, there is an alternative to indecisive, uneven, ineffective and irrational action. If the law is broken, then law enforcement would actually confront the miscreants, arrest and charge them.

I certainly applaud the staff’s determination at the Pullman Planned Parenthood clinic to rebuild and reopen. It’s evident in this case that courage trumps fear.

Tim Beamer

Cheney