Lisa Morrison writes that people should go only to circuses where all of the performers are humans who choose to do that kind of work.
To the Editor:
Last year, it was a relief to discover that an annual circus was not scheduled to appear in Bridgeton. I hoped it was because local organizers of the event had researched animal cruelty at circuses. Now, I am disappointed to find I assumed an awful lot.
The Kelly Miller Circus will be in Bridgeton on June 6 and elsewhere in South Jersey later in the month.
The recent retirement of elephants from the Ringling Bros. Circus is a step forward, and a victory for the elephants. However, the circus will never be anything good until all animals are released and banned.
The realities of circus animal training are no secret. Visit circuses.com, part of the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals website, for more information. These living creatures are forced into a life they were not intended to live. How can anyone find amusement in something that involves so much despair?
Many of us wonder what we can do as individuals to make a difference in this world gone mad. You can, and will, make a difference by choosing to skip circuses with animals. One person does count! Many voices lifted together will be heard. It's time to stop one of the worst traditions this society holds on to.
Circuses that include animals are prohibited in several U.S. cities. A positive image reflects on any city that chooses to reject this type of activity.
It's my hope that all organizations viewing this cheap, empty form of entertainment as a quick dollar will have a change of heart. There are plenty of non-animal circuses available with performers who want to be there.
Lisa Morrison
Port Norris
Honor N.J. police during this week
To the Editor:
Too often, the unwavering effort of law enforcement to keep our communities safe goes unnoticed. Recognizing the substantial personal risk they face each day, we must ensure lifesaving equipment, such as bulletproof vests and body armor, are available.
Congress has just sent the latest authorization of the "Bulletproof Vests Partnership Grant Program" to President Barack Obama. I have partnered with Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Indiana, since 1997 on this initiative. Our bill continues the program through 2020 and allows up to $25 million be spent annually.
Last year, New Jersey received $1.1 million to purchase 2,462 bulletproof vests, including 364 vests for jurisdictions in South Jersey.
During National Police Week (May 15-21), at public ceremonies in South Jersey and across the country, we honor those who serve with distinction and remember those who lost their lives to protect our freedoms. During the week, names of 123 officers who died in the line of duty in 2015 - including four from New Jersey - will join the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. The names of nearly 21,000 fallen officers memorialized can be remembered at policeweek.org.
We must never forget the courage of law enforcement officers and honor their dedication to our communities.
U.S. Rep. Frank LoBiondo
R-2nd Dist.
Ventnor
Editor's note: In the June 7 primary election, LoBiondo faces Edward Enes of Milmay for the Republicans' congressional nomination.