I hear all of this "we need guns, we don't need guns." A city dweller can call 911 and, in most cases, hear the sirens coming. Try that out in the county. Unless you live near a speed trap, the sheriff's department might be miles away.

There is a mind-set instilled in city dwellers that the police can handle any crimes that go on, and to some degree they would be right. Owning a gun to these dependent folks is unheard of, if you can believe what you hear and read these days.

County dwellers — all us good old gals or boys, if you like — know that the sheriff and his deputies are not always readily available due to the miles, not blocks, they cover.

Therefore, we prepare for such times. We depend on volunteer rescue squads and fire departments. I dare say, there aren't many homes out here without a gun, first aid kit or a garden hose.

It boils down to response time and just how long we are willing to wait. There are no doughnut shops out here. We must participate in making right what's wrong.

MARY DAVIS
BEDFORD COUNTY

Weather Journal

22 hours ago