Hi George.

Yes I have a permit to carry and have had it for nearly 10 years (I first obtained it when it was difficult to obtain one).

The purpose of a "concealed weapons permit" is that it is NOT in public view and therefore to say whether one is carrying, kind of defeats the purpose. But, yes I do "often" carry and I do so because I will do everything possible to not become a "victim" nor allow others to be in the event of a person who wants to kill me or others especially in a random way.

If you recall, the C'ville Observer wrote an article that stated that I had a permit about 6 years ago, and which I believe put me at some risk because it could make me the first to be targeted. You know that this happens too frequently in this country and may occur more in these times of potential terrorism. Also, 10 years ago, I often made business bank deposits with considerable cash and wanted some defense.

Private employers may make decision to not allow their employees or visitors carry a hand gun in the work place and should have that right. However, those who want to do harm will ignore the policy and the law abiding will follow the policy.

In general, I am not inclined to restrict individuals who lawfully have a concealed weapons permit.

David Bowerman (electronic mail, February 2, 2002).