The Aug. 24 edition had an article concerning the two Oxford draft ordinances which will be voted on Sept. 1.

Oxford’s Special Amusement Ordinance was originally passed over 33 years ago in 1978. Things have changed substantially in the last third-century, and it is past time to update that ordinance. A fair reading of Oxford’s proposed Sexually Oriented Businesses and Obscenity Ordinance will show it has been “… tailored to the Town of Oxford’s needs.”

I suggest Mr. Robert Ragan’s comment that “… some gamblers will naturally look for strip clubs as well” is not natural at all. If any business is not natural, it is his. To link his business to gambling is an incredible leap of logic unless, of course, he means by gambling on STDs.

While strip clubs are sleazy, lewd and reprehensible, the First Amendment protects them as a freedom of speech right — or so the Supreme Court says. These regulatory ordinances are drafted to protect such rights, offensive as they may be.

Apparently, Mr. Ragan intends either to encourage drunks to patronize his proposed establishment or to make sure he creates them there. One wonders why else would he need to provide shuttle buses to discourage drunk driving. If he really wants to discourage drunk driving, don’t serve alcohol. Maybe this should be considered if he applies for a liquor license.

Mr. Ragan cites no objectionable language in either ordinance, and I encourage the voters to read the draft ordinances.

John L. Palmer, Oxford