Freedom of Speech

As an ham radio operator, I often volunteer to work events to practive my emergency radio response skills. A couple of weeks ago we were asked to work the "New Richmond Riverdays". Our task was to set up a radio communication headquarters and then have ham radio operators walk through the crowd and observe for any unusual activities which should be reported to authorities. We looked for alcohol abuse, vandalism, persons with medical emergencies etc. Our radios serving as additional eyes and ears of the police, EMTs and event staff expanding their effectiveness during the event.

All was fairly quiet until a preacher was observed brandishing a bullhorn and large sign. This fellow was yelling into the microphone, waving his Bible, and condemning the crowd for their wickedness, telling them that they were going to hell if they did not repent.

The reason he was there was because of the crowd. Lots of people were able to hear his message. One older lady yelled back at him, "You don't even know me, How can you say I am going to hell". A larger crowd began to form, fifty or more. A couple of teenagers also took offence to the accusations and began laughing and mocking him. Several others also began yelling and condemning the preacher. Our radio group notified our communication center of the situation and three police officers responded.

I was impressed with how they handled the situation. Each officer stood between the preacher and each of the most vocal teenagers. They did not yell or issue orders. They softly told the boys that their actions was attracting more attention to the preacher and that is just what he wanted. The best way to oppose him is to walk away and ignore his efforts. The crowd eventually dispursed and the preacher left.

I generally agree with the message of the preacher, certainly his right to speech. But I also believe that his approach and tactics were doing more harm than good. There is a time, place, and method for everything. Nevertheless, it is wonderful that we live in a country were both sides of an argument can enjoy the benefits of free speech.

Influence of one man

I was saddened last Sunday to hear of the death of Dr. Ray Bauer. He served as the Principal at the Milford Sr. High School. I did not know him well, but I saw him rather frequently. He was involved in nearly every activity at the school. He often introduced the band performances, came to the Winter Guard competitions, and always had a cheerful word for students, parents and volunteers. He will be missed.