Tillamook Event Provides a Safe Place to Discuss the Death Penalty

A report on recent event held May 22, 2010, commentary by Ron Steiner: 

     Peope from Lincoln and Tillamook counties gathered together, at the First United Methodist Church in Tillamook to discuss their views on the death penalty. The all-day event, sponsored by the Methodist Federation for Social Action and Oregonians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty (OADP) featured award-winning author Naseem Rakha. Ms. Rakha’s novel, The Crying Tree, is a best-seller and winner of the Northwest Booksellers Prize for 2010.

            In addition to hearing from Ms Rakha, the participants watched a video of a Silverton Oregon woman, AbaGayle, whose daughter was murdered in California, yet travels the country speaking out against the death penalty. A surprise attendee was Gus Lamm, also a murder victim family member, who lived in Tillamook at the time of his wife’s death 30 years ago. Lamm’s impromptu appearance and comments provided a great impact on the day’s activities.

            The participants all had the opportunity to have group discussions about their own feelings about the death penalty and comment to the assembled group. Ron Steiner represented OAPD, presenting facts and viewpoints for repeal.

            If you would like to host such a gathering, please contact OADP through the web site or call Ron Steiner, at (503) 375-9218