Ohioans For Concealed Carry has begun to receive complaints from concerned concealed handgun license-holders, who say they're disappointed to see new discriminatory and dangerous signs banning CHL-holders going up at Salvation Army thrift stores throughout Ohio.

Consider the following exchange between one former Salvation Army supporter and officials at the Salvation Army:

Sent by: "Paul R*****"
To: swo@salvationarmy-usaeast.org
Date: 11/06/2004 07:43PM
Subject: No Firearms sign

After receiving a request to "man the kettles" this year, I went to your
local office and found a "no firearms" sign on the door.

I have donated in excess of $200 every kettle season and have donated
services in the past. Since you put up
the sign, you have indicated that you no longer want either.

I have made arrangements to remove your organization from my will and have submitted your name to the state web site list of those unfriendly to concealed cary license holders.

I will make my usual donations to those who hold my beliefs.

Sadly, you have posted notice to any person intent on criminal activity that there is little danger in robbing your offices. THEY will pay no attention to your sign. Unfortunately most victims are killed to prevent identification, not because of resistance. I know some of the employees there and would be extremely upset if anthing should happen to them.

In parting, those of us who have undergone the extensive background check and undergone the training (in my case administered by Ohio Police Academy firearms range instructors) are much safer to associate with than your average citizen. I have never committed a crime, EVER, I have no mental instability and the Sheriff and chief deputy (who know me) agreed
that I was suitable to have a license.

------------------

Subj: Re: No Firearms sign
Date: 11/8/2004 2:43:08 PM EST
From: KMaynor@USE.SalvationArmy.org
To: "Paul R."
CC: James_Brown@USE.SALVATIONARMY.ORG

Dear Mr. R*****,

Thank you for sharing with me your concerns over the Army's firearms
policy.

Kindly note that this policy is not a reflection on who you are. We are most grateful to you for your passionate support.

The Salvation Army moved forward with this policy to keep in align with our Territorial
position.

We fully support each constitutional right in our beloved country. I pray
that you will give consideration in supporting your local Salvation Army
this year. May God richly bless you.

Despite their response, Paul R. wasn't the first person to tell OFCC he is placing something else in the kettles this year:

"Every time I pass a 'collection pot' I put a "No Guns--No Dollars" card in," he said, before adding: "I intend to give privately this year."

Click on the "Read More..." link below to read another letter from a former Salvation Army donor - Jim Irvine, Chairman, OFCC PAC.