That is, if you define "safe" as whistling through a graveyard or pulling the covers over your head.
I wonder how the Student Crime Stoppers would stop an actual violent crime in progress against students.
Oh well, at least the gun-free school zone crowd agrees with Sandra Froman and Wayne LaPierre. So that should be seen as a victory of sorts for gun owners, right?
Right?
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Monday, October 17, 2005
Spotting Shots
The quick response - within seconds - came because a nearby sensor picked up the sound of the muzzle blast, pinpointed the shooter's location to within 10 feet and alerted police dispatchers of the address...The ShotSpotter system is only triggered by gunfire and it can discern the type of weapon (rifle, shotgun or handgun) being used. The software in the sensors also commands the surveillance cameras to rotate and focus on the spot where the shot was fired.
Shades of "The Black Arrow."
I wonder what would happen if someone played some of these through loudspeakers...
[Via KABA Newslinks]
Flush That Gun Goodbye
A soldier's weapon has been missing for two days after it was left in a supermarket toilet during a military exercise...
A supermarket toilet? Were they on maneuvers to practice looting stores?
Looks like here's another one for the "We're the only ones professional enough" files...
Anyone with information of the pistol's whereabouts is urged not to touch it but to contact police immediately...
Right-o.
We Have Been SO Blind
Dear kindly social worker,
They say go earn a buck.
Like be a soda jerker,
Which means like be a schumck.
It's not I'm anti-social,
I'm only anti-work.
Gloryosky! That's why I'm a jerk!*
And to think that the problem all along has been anomie!
*GEE, OFFICER KRUPKE: Music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.
© 1956, 1957 Amberson Holdings LLC and Stephen Sondheim. Copyright renewed.
Leonard Bernstein Music Publishing Company LLC, Publisher.
"Gun Czar" Needs More Power
Leave it to the "Watchdog Press" to complain that government doesn't have enough authoritah.
How come they never say "Gun Führer "?
How come they never say "Gun Führer "?
Correct Definition of "Assault Weapon"
Police found a knife believed to be the assault weapon inside the apartment, Moran said.
Finally the establishment media gets it right.
Sunday, October 16, 2005
The WarOnGuns Bedwetter of the Week Award...
...goes to Mark Medford, Chairman of the York County, VA School Board, who wants state law rewritten to ban the means of self defense at public meetings.
"We're not infringing upon people's rights to bear arms," Medford newspeaks. "[I]f someone decided to snap or got angry about a decision we make, we don't want the worst-case scenario."
Not much trust in your constituents there, eh, Medford?
Not quite. We learn the board "made arrangements to have two deputies present" when they learned they were going to be visited by a free man.
Terrified of the possibility, they needed the assurance of uniforms and badges, because as we have seen time and again, the police are the only ones professional, moral, wise, trained and rational enough to keep and bear arms.
"We're not infringing upon people's rights to bear arms," Medford newspeaks. "[I]f someone decided to snap or got angry about a decision we make, we don't want the worst-case scenario."
Not much trust in your constituents there, eh, Medford?
Not quite. We learn the board "made arrangements to have two deputies present" when they learned they were going to be visited by a free man.
Terrified of the possibility, they needed the assurance of uniforms and badges, because as we have seen time and again, the police are the only ones professional, moral, wise, trained and rational enough to keep and bear arms.
Now Raise Your Right Hoof and Repeat After Me
Baaa, baaaa, baaaaa...
That's just plain evil.
Why does that not surprise me?
""The value of this pledge can be taught at home," Sparks said.
Huff agreed, and said parents need to pay attention if their child doesn't want to sign the pledge.
That's just plain evil.
The gun court, organized in 1995, is a nationally recognized model hailed by former U.S. Attorney General John Ashcroft.
Why does that not surprise me?
UN Drafts New Gun Treaty
The U.N. is trying to ban guns again. The latest "small-arms treaty" seeks to abolish the right of any citizens to own virtually any kind of firearm. In the U.S., such an effort would strike at the heart of the Constitution’s Second Amendment.
Molon Labe, Baby!
UPDATE: It looks like someone at FreeMarket News Network took it on themselves to edit/censor my comments--not sure what they're afraid of or why, but they left out key parts and weakened the rest.
Here's what I posted in its entirety:
The UN is utterly powerless unless the US allows its sovereignty to be encroached. A constructionist president would find real work for Bolton to do and withdraw from this power-mad gang of kleptocrats and genocidal thugs.
LaPierre makes great noises about the UN threat to scare the membership into further donations. A real gun rights leader would fold up the NRA's NGO and lead his millions of members under the unified compact of "Molon Labe."
It's time we chased these monsters from our shores, razed the UN building, pulled down their obscene twisted gun barrel sculpture (and melted it into something useful--like personal defensive arms) and pried off all those "World Heritage Site" placards desecrating revered locales like Independence Hall.
Shoot Your Mouth Off First, Don't Ask Questions Later
I sent the following to a Canadian journalist and his editor over this little piece of lying hysteria masked under the "National and World News" banner:
I notice Captain of a Crew of One has also written them, and had to laugh when I saw he, too, properly considers what is being sold as "news" an editorial/opinion piece.
Looks like everyone is capable of making the distinction except those elite "professional journalists" the government seems so enamored of.
My Goodness, Jason. What a good little propagandist for the Brady Campaign you are—you even managed to use all their arguments and buzz words.
Pretty clever disguising that opinion piece as straight news. That way, people will think you’re a real reporter, not just a paid hack for the political left.
I notice Captain of a Crew of One has also written them, and had to laugh when I saw he, too, properly considers what is being sold as "news" an editorial/opinion piece.
Looks like everyone is capable of making the distinction except those elite "professional journalists" the government seems so enamored of.
Saturday, October 15, 2005
What a Crock
Cam Edwards of NRANews.com asks CBS about a potential conflict of interest for correspondent Mike Wallace--who occasionally "reports" on gun control--to appear at a Brady Center fundraiser.
Part of the CBS reply:
Right.
How is it a relatively obscure gun blog in California knew about this back in July, but a professional journalist (as opposed to a non-government-sanctioned blogger), with the resources of one of the world's largest media corporations, was in the dark about an event he was willing to stake his name on?
The CBS reply indicates Wallace "purchased tickets for himself and some family members who wanted to attend."
So are we to assume he waived his customary $50,001 to $75,000 speaker's fee?
Who asked you to speak, Mr. Wallace? Not just anybody can call you up and get you on the line--and not just anybody can persuade you to forego such a hefty fee--as your reply seems to indicate.
In the interest of public trust, full disclosure on this is warranted.
Who invited you to speak?
What specifically did they tell you about the event?
Did you know it was a fundraiser when you accepted the engagement? How could you not know? You didn't really think a roomful of Washington's well-heeled would be treated to such an evening for free, did you? You knew people would be paying to attend, didn't you--from the onset? Who did you think the beneficiaries would be?
Did you waive your fee?
If so, why? Do you typically give birthday presents worth over $50,000 to colleagues? Or was it because you believed in some cause?
Or if you didn't waive your fee, why make such a big deal out of telling people you paid for your tickets?
If you did or did not accept a fee, what journalistic ethical principles should be considered? That's either a lot of money to waive in support of social policy advocacy--or a lot of money to accept promoting same. In either case, especially with this much money involved, how could you possibly be considered unbiased on the subject of gun control laws?
Did you have an agent/assistant help make arrangements for this event? Who did you or your representative make these arrangements with? Did you or your agent sign a contract to authorize your appearance? If so, who were the parties to the contract and when was it dated?
The Public Eye response strikes me as little more than corporate apologia and deflection. It's time for CBS and Mike Wallace to give more specific details by candidly and fully answering questions like the ones posed here.
UPDATE: One other question--were CBS facilities, resources and personnel used to produce the video Wallace took to the event?
UPDATE 2: I wonder if Washington Post Vice President-at-Large Ben Bradlee waived his customary speaker's fee?
Part of the CBS reply:
According to Wallace, he “had no idea” that the event was a fundraiser for the Brady Center at the time he was asked to speak.
Right.
How is it a relatively obscure gun blog in California knew about this back in July, but a professional journalist (as opposed to a non-government-sanctioned blogger), with the resources of one of the world's largest media corporations, was in the dark about an event he was willing to stake his name on?
The CBS reply indicates Wallace "purchased tickets for himself and some family members who wanted to attend."
So are we to assume he waived his customary $50,001 to $75,000 speaker's fee?
Who asked you to speak, Mr. Wallace? Not just anybody can call you up and get you on the line--and not just anybody can persuade you to forego such a hefty fee--as your reply seems to indicate.
In the interest of public trust, full disclosure on this is warranted.
Who invited you to speak?
What specifically did they tell you about the event?
Did you know it was a fundraiser when you accepted the engagement? How could you not know? You didn't really think a roomful of Washington's well-heeled would be treated to such an evening for free, did you? You knew people would be paying to attend, didn't you--from the onset? Who did you think the beneficiaries would be?
Did you waive your fee?
If so, why? Do you typically give birthday presents worth over $50,000 to colleagues? Or was it because you believed in some cause?
Or if you didn't waive your fee, why make such a big deal out of telling people you paid for your tickets?
If you did or did not accept a fee, what journalistic ethical principles should be considered? That's either a lot of money to waive in support of social policy advocacy--or a lot of money to accept promoting same. In either case, especially with this much money involved, how could you possibly be considered unbiased on the subject of gun control laws?
Did you have an agent/assistant help make arrangements for this event? Who did you or your representative make these arrangements with? Did you or your agent sign a contract to authorize your appearance? If so, who were the parties to the contract and when was it dated?
The Public Eye response strikes me as little more than corporate apologia and deflection. It's time for CBS and Mike Wallace to give more specific details by candidly and fully answering questions like the ones posed here.
UPDATE: One other question--were CBS facilities, resources and personnel used to produce the video Wallace took to the event?
UPDATE 2: I wonder if Washington Post Vice President-at-Large Ben Bradlee waived his customary speaker's fee?
Friday, October 14, 2005
Replace Miers With Bork?
That's what "conservative" National Review Online's Ned Rice recommends:
Right.
Here's Bork's take on the Second Amendment:
And Bork you, Mr. Rice, and all the other establishment neocons who would pass this fraud off as a strict constructionist.
Lest there be any doubt, this suggestion to resubmit Bork’s name for Senate consideration is no satirical flourish. I am absolutely, positively serious about this. Bork was abundantly qualified to sit on the Supreme Court when he was nominated (and rejected) in 1987 and he remains so today because he is widely acknowledged as one of the foremost legal scholars in the United States.
Right.
Here's Bork's take on the Second Amendment:
"The Supreme Court has consistently ruled that there is no individual right to own a firearm. The Second Amendment was designed to allow states to defend themselves against a possibly tyrannical national government. Now that the federal government has stealth bombers and nuclear weapons, it is hard to imagine what people would need to keep in the garage to serve that purpose."Bork that.
And Bork you, Mr. Rice, and all the other establishment neocons who would pass this fraud off as a strict constructionist.
Guess Who's Calling for Gun Control?
UK rapper Megaman of So Solid Crew, who allegedly ordered the shooting of a "love rival" and drove the gunman to the scene, is a big supporter of disarming Britons.
And the head of the "Disarm Trust" supports him right back.
You ought to read some of the Crew's "anti-gun" lyrics. They ought to leave no doubt why Megaman is such a big proponent of making sure the people around him don't have guns.
And the head of the "Disarm Trust" supports him right back.
You ought to read some of the Crew's "anti-gun" lyrics. They ought to leave no doubt why Megaman is such a big proponent of making sure the people around him don't have guns.
A Tale of Two Citizens
A Twin Falls man faces multiple felony charges for forcing his girlfriend to her knees while pointing a gun to her head and threatening to kill her.
Sounds appropriate.
So why didn't the same thing happen to THIS guy?
Sheriff's Officer Attacked, Gun Stolen
Authorities were seeking three suspects who boxed the officer in with two vehicles, overpowered him and took his service weapon, Maer said.
Gee, isn't that why they developed "smart guns"? Oh, but, the police exempted themselves if and when the technology is deemed ready to mandate on the rest of us.
What have we been saying about improving the human operator?
If only he'd been wearing his plastic nodule glove.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
More Clues on Miers
Warren Burger was one of her favorite judges:
A quote from Warren Burger on the Second Amendment:
In another sign that Miers's supporters may be worried about perceptions of her Supreme Court knowledge, the Republican National Committee last weekend rebutted reports that Miers had told a senator that her favorite Supreme Court justice was former chief justice Warren Burger...In its press release, the RNC clarified that Miers had just named Burger as one among several favorites, and that she only meant Burger was important "in terms of his role in the administration of justice."
A quote from Warren Burger on the Second Amendment:
"[The Second Amendment] has been the subject of one of the greatest pieces of fraud, I repeat the word 'fraud,' on the American public by special interest groups that I have ever seen in my lifetime."
Miers Foes See Law Questions as Way to Derail Nomination
"We are trying to establish that there are thousands of questions that law students routinely deal with...and if she can't get to that level, it doesn't matter if you're for the left or the right, at that point it's a fait accompli that she is not fit for the office."[Thanks to Dan Gifford for the link.]
Publicola on Hugh Hewitt
Just got in from my after-work commute. I was going through the dial when Hugh Hewitt said he was going to talk about Harriet Miers and the Second Amendment, and that he would be speaking with Publicola, no doubt due to this post.
Hewitt doesn't think we'll ever get to a standard of strict scrutiny on 2A, and thinks intermediate scrutiny is the best we can hope for, particularly because the voters would never go for uninfringed rkba.
Newsflash to Hugh--some of us will accept nothing less. We don't need a majority--all we need is the critical mass of voters to deny victory. And no, we will not lose our gun rights if the Democrats are elected--that is, not unless we surrender them. Some of us--I pray a critical mass--won't do that, either.
Congratulations, Publicola, on getting national radio exposure.
Hewitt doesn't think we'll ever get to a standard of strict scrutiny on 2A, and thinks intermediate scrutiny is the best we can hope for, particularly because the voters would never go for uninfringed rkba.
Newsflash to Hugh--some of us will accept nothing less. We don't need a majority--all we need is the critical mass of voters to deny victory. And no, we will not lose our gun rights if the Democrats are elected--that is, not unless we surrender them. Some of us--I pray a critical mass--won't do that, either.
Congratulations, Publicola, on getting national radio exposure.
"Politically Charged"
So Harriet Miers wouldn't join the Federalist Society because it was "politically charged"? But she had no problem joining the Democratic Progressive Voters League and did not consider the NAACP to be "politically charged"?
That wouldn't be the same non-"politically charged" NAACP that sued gun manufacturers, would it?
That wouldn't be the same non-"politically charged" NAACP that sued gun manufacturers, would it?
More Racine Follies--and Unreported "Gun Crimes"?
When WarOnGuns last visited the beautiful city of Racine, WI, we found an alderman so hysterically against the right to keep and bear arms that he wanted to keep coloring books out of the local schools.
Now we have the story of Project New Life, a "gun buyback" program designed to get guns "off the street" and out of the hands of everyone except the criminal predators.
We're evidently supposed to be inspired by the story of a 17-year-old former gang member who turned in his "protection" gun. But funny thing--he doesn't want the gangs to find out he's unarmed now. That's another way of saying he feels safer if they think he's armed.
Nope, no disconnect there.
Nor is there cause for pause when we learn "some as young as 15, turned in guns, rifles and grenades to the church."
15-year-olds? With grenades? Live ones? And the church was qualified and equipped to handle those without clearing the place out, closing the place down and calling in the bomb squad? And BATFU wasn't notified?
And apparently, when they guarantee "no questions asked," they mean it.
So much for keeping them safely locked and secured. But what can you do when the thieves are part of the "buyback" team? Still, this opens so many questions:
Who stole the guns?
Were they returned because the thieves had a sudden attack of conscience, or did the church make it known they were going to be reported if they didn't?
Was a police report filed?
Can we expect an investigation, arrest and prosecution? Or was--as this sounds--a deal made to just turn a blind eye to everything after the weapons were returned?
Again--was BATFU notified of these multiple federal felonies, and are they going to do anything about them?
I wouldn't hold my breath on that one. I asked them years ago about a sawed-off shotgun transfer at another "buyback" and got nothing but the runaround.
And here's one last question--why is the only place highlighting this a relatively obscure gun rights blog? Where are the government-recognized "real journalists"?
Now we have the story of Project New Life, a "gun buyback" program designed to get guns "off the street" and out of the hands of everyone except the criminal predators.
We're evidently supposed to be inspired by the story of a 17-year-old former gang member who turned in his "protection" gun. But funny thing--he doesn't want the gangs to find out he's unarmed now. That's another way of saying he feels safer if they think he's armed.
Nope, no disconnect there.
Nor is there cause for pause when we learn "some as young as 15, turned in guns, rifles and grenades to the church."
15-year-olds? With grenades? Live ones? And the church was qualified and equipped to handle those without clearing the place out, closing the place down and calling in the bomb squad? And BATFU wasn't notified?
And apparently, when they guarantee "no questions asked," they mean it.
The program ran into a snag in the first week of September when some of the weapons collected were stolen by a person or persons close to the buyback organizers. Cohen said the last of the guns taken from Project New Life's office were returned last week.
So much for keeping them safely locked and secured. But what can you do when the thieves are part of the "buyback" team? Still, this opens so many questions:
Who stole the guns?
Were they returned because the thieves had a sudden attack of conscience, or did the church make it known they were going to be reported if they didn't?
Was a police report filed?
Can we expect an investigation, arrest and prosecution? Or was--as this sounds--a deal made to just turn a blind eye to everything after the weapons were returned?
Again--was BATFU notified of these multiple federal felonies, and are they going to do anything about them?
I wouldn't hold my breath on that one. I asked them years ago about a sawed-off shotgun transfer at another "buyback" and got nothing but the runaround.
And here's one last question--why is the only place highlighting this a relatively obscure gun rights blog? Where are the government-recognized "real journalists"?
FEMA "Reconsidering"
They aren't actually doing anything about the gun ban at their refugee trailer kamp, but their attorney is looking into it. That oughtta stall things for a while.
I love the Sheriff's spokeshole saying the reason they need a ban is because trailer walls are so thin.
No thinner than that argument, if you ask me...
I love the Sheriff's spokeshole saying the reason they need a ban is because trailer walls are so thin.
No thinner than that argument, if you ask me...
Of COURSE He Hasn't Been Fired Yet. Of COURSE there Was a Plea.
A Covington police officer admitted he threatened his wife with a handgun while drunk.
But that's OK, because "Ken Easterling, chief prosecutor for the Kenton County Attorney's Office, said that while the gun was loaded, its safety was on and there was no bullet in the chamber."
So, see? There were mitigating circumstances.
Senator Shrugs Off Gun Incident
And why not? He appears to have been slipping out of controversies for years.
I wonder, if this was you or me, if we'd be able to shrug it off?
I wonder, if this was you or me, if we'd be able to shrug it off?
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
US Mulls Federal Troops for Bird Flu Quarantine
The Pentagon is looking at the possibility of using federal troops to enforce a quarantine in the event of an outbreak of pandemic bird flu in the United States, a senior official said on Wednesday.
President George W. Bush said last week he would consider using the military to "effect a quarantine" in response to any outbreak of avian influenza, but provided few details.
This won't require citizens being sent to quarantine facilities, though, will it? And he'll let us keep our guns, right?
"Independence" Day
In response to "A Victim of WHAT?", Aaron Krowne, Head of Digital Library Research,Emory University General Libraries, and Director of PlanetMath.org, shares his own experiences with overzealous law enforcement.
I guess it's easier and less dangerous than going after criminals.
This illustrates how everyone in our society is affected by the assault on liberty--and the more people caught in the net, the more they will become radicalized to resist. We could all stand a reminder that personal liberty comes in different forms, and it's only appropriately defined by the individual who wants to exercise it.
In the meantime, squeeze, baby, squeeze.
I guess it's easier and less dangerous than going after criminals.
This illustrates how everyone in our society is affected by the assault on liberty--and the more people caught in the net, the more they will become radicalized to resist. We could all stand a reminder that personal liberty comes in different forms, and it's only appropriately defined by the individual who wants to exercise it.
In the meantime, squeeze, baby, squeeze.
Arrested for Carrying a Fanny Pack?
This is one of the more absurd manifestations of the police state I have come across.
A Victim of WHAT?
"If you don't know about it, then you're a victim of your own ignorance."
So says Washington DC police officer Dennis Fair, who cuffed, searched, arrested and jailed a woman who had one glass of wine.
Why would he do that?
Fair, who said he does not comment on individual arrests, noted in his report that Bolton's attitude was "excited," "carefree" and "cocky."
I hope they throw the book at her. She wantonly broke the cardinal rule of subjects in the presence of law enforcement heroes of the state:
"You WILL respect my authoritah!"
Nicki Reviews EFAD
Bracken skillfully combines this set of circumstances and shows us a frightening, and all too realistic, glimpse into what could happen when ordinary, freedom-loving Americans are pushed too far by a band of would-be tyrants set on furthering their own power and agenda.
Go read.
Comments on Senator Hinojosa Caught with Gun
Isn't this the second time Juan has been caught carrying a gun in the airport. Kinda strange since is he such a leading proponent of strict gun control, voted with Ann Richards against the Right to Carry in Texas. Wanted to add a $1.00 tax on each bullet sold in the state. Guess he will lie out of this one like he did las time "I was in a hurry and forgot about the gun" - Floyd Kolander
So much for being a gun owner making a politician--or judicial nominee--pro-Second Amendment...
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Gun Sales Up Since Hurricanes
Nothing like a little reality to show people what they can expect in an emergency--if the hurricanes had a silver lining, it was to wake people up to the fact that they'll need to be able to protect themselves when disaster strikes.
The Brady's have lost the "You should rely on the police to protect you" sound bite from their arsenal of lies.
The Brady's have lost the "You should rely on the police to protect you" sound bite from their arsenal of lies.
Laura Bush Says Sexism Possible in Miers Criticism
Right.
SHE's the one who pushed for the nominee being a woman--as if that should have anything to do with anything.
SHE's the one who pushed for the nominee being a woman--as if that should have anything to do with anything.
Arnold Returns AB 996
In explaining why he didn't sign Mark Ridley-Thomas' gun store harassment bill that would have required all ammo to be kept behind the counter, Schwarzenegger explained "I have just signed SB 48 by
Senator Scott into law which will ensure those underage will no longer be purchasing ammunition."
No, it won't. That's like saying signing a bill binding on Rite-Aid and Sav-On will ensure those underage will no longer be purchasing drugs.
What SB 48 does is take away affirmative defense that a seller did not know a handgun ammunition purchaser was under 21. And isn't it curious that someone old enough to be trusted in Iraq is deemed too young to be trusted in California.
What did Mr. Coxe say?
It's good that Arnold didn't sign AB 996. But the "good news" seems to be all we're hearing about from the lobbyists. He should have returned SB 48 unsigned as well.
UPDATE: David Hardy reports one further bit of gun control The Hessian signed:
Is groping considered violence?
Senator Scott into law which will ensure those underage will no longer be purchasing ammunition."
No, it won't. That's like saying signing a bill binding on Rite-Aid and Sav-On will ensure those underage will no longer be purchasing drugs.
What SB 48 does is take away affirmative defense that a seller did not know a handgun ammunition purchaser was under 21. And isn't it curious that someone old enough to be trusted in Iraq is deemed too young to be trusted in California.
What did Mr. Coxe say?
THE POWERS OF THE SWORD ARE IN THE HANDS OF THE YEOMANRY OF AMERICA FROM SIXTEEN TO SIXTY.
It's good that Arnold didn't sign AB 996. But the "good news" seems to be all we're hearing about from the lobbyists. He should have returned SB 48 unsigned as well.
UPDATE: David Hardy reports one further bit of gun control The Hessian signed:
[It] authorizes arraignment judges to forbid domestic violence defendants to own arms (i.e., to forbid possession by a person charged with, but not found guilty of, the offense. So much for innocent until proven guilty).
Is groping considered violence?
Why the Silence, Mr. LaPierre?
"The Supreme Court is going to be crucial to the future of the Second Amendment, and President Bush will appoint justices that respect the Bill of Rights," NRA chief executive Wayne LaPierre told The Associated Press...
Why did NRA not issue an announcement to gun owners during the confirmation process for new Chief Justice John Roberts concerning his stand on the Second Amendment? Why have they been silent on Harriet Miers?
Mr. LaPierre is right--this is crucial to the future of the Second Amendment. Gun owners deserve better at this time than silence from an organization that takes such pride in its "enormous clout in Washington."
LA Citizen Disarmament Continues
According to a report that aired on the Lehrer News Hour on Thursday, displaced New Orleans residents are being allowed to move into a trailer and RV compound called "FEMA City," but the conditions for residency include a ban on firearms.The head of FEMA, of course, is appointed by "pro-gun" George Bush.
[KABA Newslinks]
Monday, October 10, 2005
Lugar to Press: "We Only Recognize Establishment Lapdogs"
Bloggers would "probably not" be considered journalists under the proposed federal shield law, the bill's co-sponsor, U.S. Sen. Richard Lugar (R.-Ind.), told the Inter American Press Association (IAPA) Monday afternoon.
I've written before about the dangers of government assuming it gets to decide who an authorized journalist is.
We've seen a politically disfavored newspaper publisher denied entry to a Homeland Secury press conference.
We've explored instances where bloggers have covered vital liberty-related stories ignored by the "official" press.
We've seen judges presume to weigh in.
At the federal and state level.
I personally have been subjected to police harassment for asking Sarah Brady a question at my neighborhood park. And I personally have shielded the identity of a source in order to protect him from reprisal for information about the inner-workings of a government agency. On more than one occasion. (In the interest of full disclosure, I now have a press pass issued by my magazine publisher--but the majority of my writing was done before this, and I don't believe a card should give me privileges and immunities over other bloggers--plus there's no guarantee the government would consider writing for a gun magazine to be "legitimate" journalism.)
And we've seen how "establishment" media, like Reuters, are little more than propaganda outlets.
Dick Lugar can go to hell.
"Preparedness Now" Newsletter
In my September 13th interview with CNBC, one of the issues the anchor raised was preparedness as a “fear” response. It is unfortunate that many Americans have the same thinking. They believe disaster preparedness is what is done in other far away places in the world, not in the USA. The Gulf Coast disaster wreaked by Hurricane Katrina once again brings home the fact that we are not immune to disaster.
While most cannot prepare to the level I have, each family can take preparedness steps to be ready to save their lives and the lives of loved ones.
Pam Stegner of Preparedness Now has a new and informative newsletter containing vital information and tips about preparing for emergencies and disasters. The first issue has instructions for preparing a 72 Hour Preparedness & Evacuation Kit. as seen on CNBC, September 13, 2005. To subscribe to this newsletter, please send an e-mail with Subscribe in the subject line to editor@preparednessnow.com
In addition to being a leading authority on preparedness and one of my favorite radio hosts, you'll not find a stronger Second Amendment advocate than Pam--plus, she's a genuinely nice lady.
Harriet Gave to Hillary
Harriet Miers' political contributions to Democrats didn't end in 1988 with her support of Al Gore.
I'm sure there will be no shortage of apologists who will point out it was her PAC and not her personally, and tell you why this doesn't matter.
More Kool-Aid, please...
"Inactive" Activity
Cryptic Subterranean points us to an indicator that the much-publicized IRA disarmament may not be the done deal we're being told it is.
Why don't I find that hard to believe?
Although I know individual shooters who would feel practically disarmed if all they had was 10,000 rounds. Since when do "10 boxes" equal "a huge cache" or "a sinister arsenal"?
Why don't I find that hard to believe?
Although I know individual shooters who would feel practically disarmed if all they had was 10,000 rounds. Since when do "10 boxes" equal "a huge cache" or "a sinister arsenal"?
UN to Take Control of Internet?
[F]aced with international consensus, there is little the US government can do but acquiesce.
Really?
UPDATE: Captain of a Crew of One has some thoughtful comments.
A Question for Howard
Howard Goodman cites several examples where people could sure have used a gun or two in the workplace to defend themselves. Of course, he's too wrapped up in his own hoplophobia to realize that.
Yo, Howard--if some maniac starts shooting up the Sun-Sentinal offices, just what are you prepared to do about it?
Yo, Howard--if some maniac starts shooting up the Sun-Sentinal offices, just what are you prepared to do about it?
Dear Fear-Mongering Propagandists
Dear ParentLine: Our nine-year-old son has a best friend whose father has a gun collection...But we really feel uncomfortable letting our son play over at the boy's house.
Are there any suggestions on handling this diplomatically?
— Gun shy
Perhaps someone can think of an appropriate suggestion or two, not only for "Gun shy," but also for the moron dispensing the one-sided hysterics. All of mine seem to involve improbable physical acts.
Sunday, October 09, 2005
NRA Lauds Bush Increase in Gun Prosecutions
NRA has long maintained that federal gun laws aimed at the criminal misuse of firearms are effective in reducing crime--if they are enforced. President Bush's administration has clearly heard that message and implemented it.
Never mind that patriotic Americans will become felons if caught defying clearly unconstitutional gun prohibitions--the LaPierre Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence (formerly National Rifle Control, Inc.) wants them punished, and George Bush is just the man to do it.
They still haven't answered a question I've been asking for years--just where in this document are the feds delegated authority to be involved in these matters at all?
Don't hold your breath.
Oh, and as for those federal gun laws that "are effective in reducing crime"? Why not ask the residents of Richmond and Philadelphia?
More Kool-Aid, anyone?
Friday, October 07, 2005
CCRKBA: "Urge Congress to Adopt Senate Version of Patriot Act Reauthorization"?
How can I? I haven't read the whole thing, and I'm not sure I'm qualified to know what all the implications are anyway.
Yes, quite possibly there are some rollbacks on presumed authorities. But when you talk about putting "checks on the government’s ability to comb through an individual’s financial, medical, business, library, gun purchases or other sales records," or "sneak and peak searches," I gotta first wonder how closely the Constitution is being adhered to.
If CCRKBA is going to urge us to call our senators to pass something, I think it's incumbent on them to give us a comnprehensive pro/con implications analysis of each section of the bill.
People need to be educated about this before they can be expected to blindly support it.
Yes, quite possibly there are some rollbacks on presumed authorities. But when you talk about putting "checks on the government’s ability to comb through an individual’s financial, medical, business, library, gun purchases or other sales records," or "sneak and peak searches," I gotta first wonder how closely the Constitution is being adhered to.
If CCRKBA is going to urge us to call our senators to pass something, I think it's incumbent on them to give us a comnprehensive pro/con implications analysis of each section of the bill.
People need to be educated about this before they can be expected to blindly support it.
The Bear Necessities
“I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.” — Timothy Treadwell, setting up his video camera inches from a grizzly bear.
“Grunt. Snort. Crunch. Snap. Munch. Gulp.” — Grizzly, loosely translated as, “I love you, too.”
"The Bear Necessities," my October Rights Watch column for GUNS Magazine, is now online.
"I'm the Better Hunter/Sportsman!"
"No, I'M the better hunter/sportsman!"
Sounds like neither one of these boys realize it ain't about hunting and sporting.
Is this guy serious?
Let's cut to the chase:
Allen, Eric:
Do you believe your constituents have an unalienable right to carry whatever firearm they please wherever they please, including select fire, openly or concealed as they see fit, without anybody's damn permission?
Yes or no?
Because some of us don't give a damn about you shooting pigs and whitetail deer.
Sounds like neither one of these boys realize it ain't about hunting and sporting.
"The real difference is I know a shotgun is used for something besides starting a golf tournament."
Is this guy serious?
Let's cut to the chase:
Allen, Eric:
Do you believe your constituents have an unalienable right to carry whatever firearm they please wherever they please, including select fire, openly or concealed as they see fit, without anybody's damn permission?
Yes or no?
Because some of us don't give a damn about you shooting pigs and whitetail deer.
Jim Brady Calls For End Of Gun Violence
What is this guy, Miss America calling for "world peace"?
If wishes were fishes...
These people are like children. They have no business imposing themselves on adults.
If wishes were fishes...
These people are like children. They have no business imposing themselves on adults.
Honor Among Thieves
Thieves have stolen a handgun on display at an international conference on warfare in the 21st century.
The Heckler and Koch .40 calibre USP semi-automatic pistol went missing from a locked display cabinet at the Gold Coast conference.
Ironically, the conference was not open to the public for security reasons.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Miers Carries?
From Dan Gifford via email:
UPDATE: From Dan Gifford--
MORE ON MIERS JUST IN FROM A GOOD DC SOURCE: "FYI the White House folks told me she owns a gun and has a concealed carry permit."
UPDATE: From Dan Gifford--
Just understand that I cannot personally verify that statement. Gene Volokh has checked with Texas and found she does not have one from that state. There are other state possibilities like Maryland and Virginia or she may have a Special US Marshal designation like some other DC VIPs. On the other hand, she may not have a gun or a CCW. All I can say for certain is that the statement came from a reliable DC source and that another DC lawyer on Volokh's blog described Miers as a gun toting evangelical.
Mean Girls
This isn't 2A-related or anything, but this story does raise a question about the people our society exalts.
What kind of person would get in a serious car crash and their first instinct is to run and hide instead of checking to see if the person she hit was hurt and needed help?
What kind of person would get in a serious car crash and their first instinct is to run and hide instead of checking to see if the person she hit was hurt and needed help?
"Good Job"
Alphecca tells us "Philip Van Cleave and Mike Stollenwerk of the VCDL did a good job forcing the town [Culpeper, VA--DC] to remove the signs prohibiting law-abiding citizens from bearing arms in the town's parks."
But wait a minute...I thought Jerry Kilgore's spokeshole said "...Van Cleave unfortunately has no credibility on Second Amendment issues..."
I'll go with the first assessment. I'm tired of seeing gun groups marginalized by the political establishment because they show some steel in their spines.
UPDATE: Countertop (of "How Can I Miss You If You Won't Go Away?" fame) has more details on the Kilgore fiasco.
UPDATE 2: Sailorcurt has more.
But wait a minute...I thought Jerry Kilgore's spokeshole said "...Van Cleave unfortunately has no credibility on Second Amendment issues..."
I'll go with the first assessment. I'm tired of seeing gun groups marginalized by the political establishment because they show some steel in their spines.
UPDATE: Countertop (of "How Can I Miss You If You Won't Go Away?" fame) has more details on the Kilgore fiasco.
UPDATE 2: Sailorcurt has more.
Olson Reverses Polarity--For the Time Being...
The US Supreme Court, with the enigmatic John Roberts at the helm, has ducked again, refusing "to block a lawsuit against gun manufacturers accused of negligence for firearms violence in the nation's capital."
I've often wondered--if Sarah Brady's son went on a rampage with that rifle she bought him--would she publicly demand a lawsuit against the store and manufacturer?
Anyway, the thing that particularly caught my eye in this story--aside from the unbelievable judicial arrogance of Michael Farrell-- is who "the lawyer for the gun companies" is--our old pal Ted Olson.
That's the same Ted Olson who argued for the government (after John Ashcroft's lip service declaring the Second Amendment an individual right--except for all those "compelling state interests" that negate the "shall not be infringed" part) and against the right to keep and bear arms in the Emerson, Haney and Bean cases.
Gee, who would have ever thought the gun industry would retain someone who isn't squarely in their camp? I mean, it's not like they should have learned better from Robert Ricker or anything...
I've often wondered--if Sarah Brady's son went on a rampage with that rifle she bought him--would she publicly demand a lawsuit against the store and manufacturer?
Anyway, the thing that particularly caught my eye in this story--aside from the unbelievable judicial arrogance of Michael Farrell-- is who "the lawyer for the gun companies" is--our old pal Ted Olson.
That's the same Ted Olson who argued for the government (after John Ashcroft's lip service declaring the Second Amendment an individual right--except for all those "compelling state interests" that negate the "shall not be infringed" part) and against the right to keep and bear arms in the Emerson, Haney and Bean cases.
Gee, who would have ever thought the gun industry would retain someone who isn't squarely in their camp? I mean, it's not like they should have learned better from Robert Ricker or anything...
Disarmed Rescuers in LA
-Notes From the Front Lines-
FEMA's suspension of the Phoenix Fire Department's Urban Search and Rescue team because they deployed to New Orleans with armed police guards is rightly causing outrage. The following was sent to me by a member of a similar team deployed to LA, a man I have been corresponding with for some months.
He has allowed me to post his account here on the condition that he must remain anonymous--if his identity became known, his career would be destroyed.
I was in the New Orleans area as a member of a Fire Department contingent that responded to Louisiana last month. A member of our fire department who responded a few days prior to the main contingent being deployed told us over the phone, "If you can find a way to bring a handgun, do so."
Everyone who knows me at work knows that I am staunchly and unabashedly pro-rights. I am what they would proverbially call a "gun-nut." Throughout the ride to LA, my co-workers would occasionally ask me if I had packed any "heat." It was always in jest. My answer was always a consistent, "No, it would be illegal for me to transport a loaded firearm throughout the states we will be traveling through (even though I have a CCW from my state of residence)." Regardless, my employer forbids the possession of any weapon, at any time, while on duty and we were considered to be on duty throughout the entire deployment.
When we arrived in LA and the devastation (along with the accompanying uncertainty and lawlessness) became apparent, the inquiries into my armed status were now serious inquiries. The most popular guys in our convoy were now the Public Safety guys. In case you didn't know, some municipalities go with the public safety concept where trained personnel fulfill all the duties of police, firefighting and EMS. These public safety guys were with us as firefighters but did not disarm prior to departing. It was nice to see my anti-rights friends (who constantly mock me while in the relative safety of our station) all of a sudden warm up to the idea of a gun in their midst.
Our deployment took us near the New Orleans area but not in the actual city, where the problems being experienced in New Orleans were almost non-existent. It became apparent pretty quickly why the problems were non-existent. Almost everyone we met owned AND carried a firearm. I could bore you with endless stories about the different ways we saw firearms in their "natural setting" ... the way they were meant to be used ... especially in a disaster zone. It was a thing of beauty. Free men and women, armed and openly carrying those arms while going about the business of putting their lives back together.
I will share these two stories:
--A lady approached us in a parking lot of a fire station and asked us for some help. We said, "Sure, how can we help you?" She proceeded to tell us that she had just returned after evacuating to Mississippi and that her husband could not return with her because of work. She said she was alone and had just discovered her house was devastated with no utilities except for phone. She told us that she was concerned about looters and being alone. She said her husband had bought a shotgun years ago but that she had never learned how to use it. Her question was, "If I dial 911, will you come?" The Lieutenant I was with answered without hesitation, "Yes ma'am, just dial 911 and someone will be right there." We started to walk away and I watched her start to amble away with her shoulders down. I could not in good conscience keep walking so I called out after her and told her to hold up. I told her the truth. I said, "Ma'am, if you dial 911 the police might or might not come." I then told her how 911 was still unreliable. I told her how in the previous week, two homes burned to the ground in affected areas because no one could get through on the phone to report the fires. I know this would be the last thing that "Officials" would want to be known. However, I felt the truth might serve her better than a half-baked lie and misplaced trust in 911. I then told her to try and get as much stuff taken care of at her property and to return to her husband until things were better resolved. I told her if she had to stay, to seek out some of her armed neighbors and establish some sort of system to call for help or even to stay with them. Finally, I told her that as soon as she could, she should learn to operate that firearm her husband left for her or find one more suited to her needs. The last thing I said to her was, "Do what I told you, prepare to handle everything yourself. Call 911 but don't plan on help coming. I know it's not what you want to hear but it's reality." Her shoulders were still down but now she seemed to have purpose in her step. It's amazing what the truth can do.
--Immunizations were being given out at a local hospital for tetanus, diphtheria, Hepatitis A, etc. The lines were long and residents were standing in the heat to get in. The sign at the entrance caught my eye and surprised me (being in the South), it said "No Firearms" with the typical black firearm silhouette and red, slashed circle. The lettering underneath said, "Weapons free zone." It was quite amusing to see the sign there with the unarmed private security guard sitting at his desk as numerous National Guardsmen whisked back and forth with their M-16s and M9 pistols. A private citizen who had been standing in line was about to enter when he saw the sign, he let out a slight groan and with a roll of his head started to step out of the line. He looked at me and asked if he could have his place in line when he returned. That’s when I noticed he was carrying a sidearm. I asked him if that's why he was leaving the line. He said yes, he was going to walk back to his car and put it in the trunk. I told him to wait right there. I went inside and retrieved some paperwork and the shots. I came back out and had him complete the shot record while I administered the shots (I'm a paramedic btw) on the spot. The rest of the people in line seemed slightly indignant. I was only assisting there briefly so I went ahead and told them, "Armed citizens get priority." No one said anything and I did my good deed.
Even though, I repeated the party line when asked, I was adequately prepared to protect myself if the need had presented itself. My fire chief, personnel director, fire & police commissioners and city council members who made the rule about no weapons were residing comfortably back home, not in the immediate area of a disaster zone. My officer who was present with us, had his suspicions but never asked and at times made insinuations that seemed favorable. When it comes to firearms though, I trust no one who does not openly support an unfettered right to possess and carry.
FEMA's suspension of the Phoenix Fire Department's Urban Search and Rescue team because they deployed to New Orleans with armed police guards is rightly causing outrage. The following was sent to me by a member of a similar team deployed to LA, a man I have been corresponding with for some months.
He has allowed me to post his account here on the condition that he must remain anonymous--if his identity became known, his career would be destroyed.
I was in the New Orleans area as a member of a Fire Department contingent that responded to Louisiana last month. A member of our fire department who responded a few days prior to the main contingent being deployed told us over the phone, "If you can find a way to bring a handgun, do so."
Everyone who knows me at work knows that I am staunchly and unabashedly pro-rights. I am what they would proverbially call a "gun-nut." Throughout the ride to LA, my co-workers would occasionally ask me if I had packed any "heat." It was always in jest. My answer was always a consistent, "No, it would be illegal for me to transport a loaded firearm throughout the states we will be traveling through (even though I have a CCW from my state of residence)." Regardless, my employer forbids the possession of any weapon, at any time, while on duty and we were considered to be on duty throughout the entire deployment.
When we arrived in LA and the devastation (along with the accompanying uncertainty and lawlessness) became apparent, the inquiries into my armed status were now serious inquiries. The most popular guys in our convoy were now the Public Safety guys. In case you didn't know, some municipalities go with the public safety concept where trained personnel fulfill all the duties of police, firefighting and EMS. These public safety guys were with us as firefighters but did not disarm prior to departing. It was nice to see my anti-rights friends (who constantly mock me while in the relative safety of our station) all of a sudden warm up to the idea of a gun in their midst.
Our deployment took us near the New Orleans area but not in the actual city, where the problems being experienced in New Orleans were almost non-existent. It became apparent pretty quickly why the problems were non-existent. Almost everyone we met owned AND carried a firearm. I could bore you with endless stories about the different ways we saw firearms in their "natural setting" ... the way they were meant to be used ... especially in a disaster zone. It was a thing of beauty. Free men and women, armed and openly carrying those arms while going about the business of putting their lives back together.
I will share these two stories:
--A lady approached us in a parking lot of a fire station and asked us for some help. We said, "Sure, how can we help you?" She proceeded to tell us that she had just returned after evacuating to Mississippi and that her husband could not return with her because of work. She said she was alone and had just discovered her house was devastated with no utilities except for phone. She told us that she was concerned about looters and being alone. She said her husband had bought a shotgun years ago but that she had never learned how to use it. Her question was, "If I dial 911, will you come?" The Lieutenant I was with answered without hesitation, "Yes ma'am, just dial 911 and someone will be right there." We started to walk away and I watched her start to amble away with her shoulders down. I could not in good conscience keep walking so I called out after her and told her to hold up. I told her the truth. I said, "Ma'am, if you dial 911 the police might or might not come." I then told her how 911 was still unreliable. I told her how in the previous week, two homes burned to the ground in affected areas because no one could get through on the phone to report the fires. I know this would be the last thing that "Officials" would want to be known. However, I felt the truth might serve her better than a half-baked lie and misplaced trust in 911. I then told her to try and get as much stuff taken care of at her property and to return to her husband until things were better resolved. I told her if she had to stay, to seek out some of her armed neighbors and establish some sort of system to call for help or even to stay with them. Finally, I told her that as soon as she could, she should learn to operate that firearm her husband left for her or find one more suited to her needs. The last thing I said to her was, "Do what I told you, prepare to handle everything yourself. Call 911 but don't plan on help coming. I know it's not what you want to hear but it's reality." Her shoulders were still down but now she seemed to have purpose in her step. It's amazing what the truth can do.
--Immunizations were being given out at a local hospital for tetanus, diphtheria, Hepatitis A, etc. The lines were long and residents were standing in the heat to get in. The sign at the entrance caught my eye and surprised me (being in the South), it said "No Firearms" with the typical black firearm silhouette and red, slashed circle. The lettering underneath said, "Weapons free zone." It was quite amusing to see the sign there with the unarmed private security guard sitting at his desk as numerous National Guardsmen whisked back and forth with their M-16s and M9 pistols. A private citizen who had been standing in line was about to enter when he saw the sign, he let out a slight groan and with a roll of his head started to step out of the line. He looked at me and asked if he could have his place in line when he returned. That’s when I noticed he was carrying a sidearm. I asked him if that's why he was leaving the line. He said yes, he was going to walk back to his car and put it in the trunk. I told him to wait right there. I went inside and retrieved some paperwork and the shots. I came back out and had him complete the shot record while I administered the shots (I'm a paramedic btw) on the spot. The rest of the people in line seemed slightly indignant. I was only assisting there briefly so I went ahead and told them, "Armed citizens get priority." No one said anything and I did my good deed.
Even though, I repeated the party line when asked, I was adequately prepared to protect myself if the need had presented itself. My fire chief, personnel director, fire & police commissioners and city council members who made the rule about no weapons were residing comfortably back home, not in the immediate area of a disaster zone. My officer who was present with us, had his suspicions but never asked and at times made insinuations that seemed favorable. When it comes to firearms though, I trust no one who does not openly support an unfettered right to possess and carry.
Wednesday, October 05, 2005
NRA "To Make a Major Announcement"
They're doing "a series of press conferences."
Speculation?
Jerry Kilgore's involved--we already know they're backing him.
Do they have something to say about Harriet Miers?
Is it something else?
Guess we'll just have to wait and see...
Speculation?
Jerry Kilgore's involved--we already know they're backing him.
Do they have something to say about Harriet Miers?
Is it something else?
Guess we'll just have to wait and see...
Yeah, THIS'LL Work
I no sooner get done posting about cops getting their guns taken away and the foolishness of relying on gadgets as a substitute for trained human operators, and this foolishness resurrects itself.
Sure, Joseph Petrella--that's just what I'd want to have hampering my dexterity and getting snagged on things in a tactical situation--your stupid glove. And maybe you should install a smart lock on the glove so the perps can't remove it from the downed officer and use it to activate the gun...
Doesn't your garage need cleaning or something?
Sure, Joseph Petrella--that's just what I'd want to have hampering my dexterity and getting snagged on things in a tactical situation--your stupid glove. And maybe you should install a smart lock on the glove so the perps can't remove it from the downed officer and use it to activate the gun...
Doesn't your garage need cleaning or something?
More From the "We’re the Only Ones Professional Enough" Files
Two breaking stories:
and:
Years ago I wrote an article about "smart guns," which were originally developed to address cops being killed with their own service weapons. Of course, just as I predicted, police are exepmpted from pending personalized weapons mandates for a simple fact: they realize how foolish it would be to trust their lives to gadgets and have the political clout to reject them.
What was the solution for takeaway incidents identified then by weapons and tactics expert Ken Good, that still holds true today?
Speaking of someone who shouldn't have been trusted with a gun in the first place, here's another takeaway incident involving someone--what would you call her--"semiprofessional enough?"...
A Philadelphia police officer is recovering from bite wounds during a struggle with a suspect who took his gun.
The officer's partner shot the suspect, avoiding a repeat of a shooting at a hospital in Langhorne, Bucks County, last week during which a policeman was killed with his own gun.
and:
An officer's gun was fired inside a Smyrna hospital, but no one was hurt…authorities say an agitated jail inmate…became irritated and began to scuffle with the Smyrna police officer guarding him. The two wrestled on the floor, with the inmate firing the officer's gun once while it was still in its holster
Years ago I wrote an article about "smart guns," which were originally developed to address cops being killed with their own service weapons. Of course, just as I predicted, police are exepmpted from pending personalized weapons mandates for a simple fact: they realize how foolish it would be to trust their lives to gadgets and have the political clout to reject them.
What was the solution for takeaway incidents identified then by weapons and tactics expert Ken Good, that still holds true today?
"If a weapon is taken from an officer, I personally believe it is primarily a training issue. Most folks seem to try and solve most tactical problems through some sort of hardware improvement without looking at the core system. The human operator should be the primary system to be improved upon. Many departments are dangerously low in their delivery of ongoing advanced officer training. If an officer cannot be trusted to deploy and keep his or her weapon, please don't give them one in the first place!"
Speaking of someone who shouldn't have been trusted with a gun in the first place, here's another takeaway incident involving someone--what would you call her--"semiprofessional enough?"...
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Guns Magazine Review: Enemies Foreign and Domestic
Author Matthew Bracken has written a thrilling first novel (did I mention this is also a passionate love story), one that engages, grips and doesn't let up. He avoids the proselytizing that can plague the liberty genre, and delivers a solid, exciting tale with deep and believable characters.
Read complete review here.
Then go here and buy this book.
If you already have and agree with me that this is an important (and fun) book for gun owners to read, send this link to your friends:
http://waronguns.blogspot.com/2005/10/guns-magazine-review-enemies-foreign.html
Ivey Stiffens Penalty Sought in Gun Cases
Meet Prince George's County State's Attorney Glenn F. Ivey, who will make an example of anyone caught keeping and bearing arms. Anyone except his henchmen and cronies, that is.
Hey, he's just following the lead of his counterparts over at the US Attorney's office in DC. You know--the ones who work for our "pro-gun" administration.
Hey, he's just following the lead of his counterparts over at the US Attorney's office in DC. You know--the ones who work for our "pro-gun" administration.
Monday, October 03, 2005
It's Miers
What's the recurring line from Star Wars?
I don't have a good feeling about this.
It's not exactly like previous judicial nominees have filled me with confidence.
What do you think the odds are she recognizes military firearms as vital tools of liberty that belong in the hands of the people?
UPDATE: She's been "pre-approved by Senate Democratic leadership"?
We're screwed.
UPDATE: Via Drudge (no story link yet, just a headline under a flashing alarm): "BUSH COURT PICK GAVE MONEY TO CLINTON, GORE"
NRA-now is NOT the time to be silent on this.
I don't have a good feeling about this.
It's not exactly like previous judicial nominees have filled me with confidence.
What do you think the odds are she recognizes military firearms as vital tools of liberty that belong in the hands of the people?
UPDATE: She's been "pre-approved by Senate Democratic leadership"?
We're screwed.
UPDATE: Via Drudge (no story link yet, just a headline under a flashing alarm): "BUSH COURT PICK GAVE MONEY TO CLINTON, GORE"
NRA-now is NOT the time to be silent on this.
Giuliani to Mull 2008 Decision Next Year
Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani said Sunday he will contemplate next year whether to run for president in 2008.
Giuliani on Gun Control:
All gun owners should pass written test.
I do not think the government should cut off the right to bear arms. My position for many years has been that just as a motorist must have a license, a gun owner should be required to have one as well. Anyone wanting to own a gun should have to pass a written exam that shows that they know how to use a gun, that they’re intelligent enough and responsible enough to handle a gun. Should both handgun and rifle owners be licensed...we’re talking about all dangerous weapons.
Mayor's Message:
To purchase a gun in the State of New York you have to give your full name, your date of birth, your residence, your occupation. You have to prove that you're a United States citizen, you have to show you are of good character, competency and integrity. And you have to demonstrate a real need for the weapon.
And thanks in part to our stricter gun control laws, crime is down dramatically in New York City. Shootings are down over 50 percent. Murder is down over 50 percent. But the fact is that 90 percent of the guns we take out of the hands of criminals in New York City come from out of the State of New York.
We need a federal law that bans all assault weapons, and if in fact you do need a handgun you should be subjected to at least the same restrictions -- and really stronger ones -- that exist for driving an automobile.
The United States Congress needs to pass uniform licensing for everyone carrying a gun.
If this guy gets the nomination, GOP betrayal of gun owners will be complete.
And yes, I anticipate no shortage of desperate cowards stammering indignant disagreement and telling us if we don't vote for Rudy we'll get Hillary and then really lose our gun rights.
Just remember this: Regardless of what edicts are passed and who is in charge, we won't lose them unless we surrender them.
We're dealing with nothing less than the enemies of human dignity and freedom. Did anyone really think it would always remain easy and civil?
Local Developer Takes Dead Aim at the NRA
Here's the inside poop on the co-founder of the American Hunters and Shooters Association, Jon Rosenthal. You will not find a more committed enemy of gun rights.
Incidentally, my GUNS article on AHSA got backed up a month--I felt it more important to bump it for one about about the happenings in New Orleans.
Incidentally, my GUNS article on AHSA got backed up a month--I felt it more important to bump it for one about about the happenings in New Orleans.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Ooops!
The FBI says it sometimes gets the wrong number when it intercepts conversations in terrorism investigations, an admission critics say underscores a need to revise wiretap provisions in the Patriot Act.
The FBI would not say how often these mistakes happen. And, though any incriminating evidence mistakenly collected is not legally admissible in a criminal case, there is no way of knowing whether it is used to begin an investigation [emphasis added].
Nordyke Cleared For Challenge
Gun enthusiasts were handed a legal victory last week, when a federal judge ruled they can argue that their free speech rights are violated by an Alameda County ordinance that bans guns on county property.What a twisted world. The courts don't recognize Second Amendment standing for individuals in California, so we need to contrive First Amendment arguments to get anywhere--the irony of this sad state of things notwithstanding, that's some pretty clever lawyering by Don Kilmer.
In a ruling issued Tuesday, U.S. District Court Judge Martin J. Jenkins cleared the way for a new First Amendment challenge to the 1999 ordinance.
"Order and Authority"
New York Times columnist David Brooks on "Meet the Press," speaking about what people want in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina:
I'd say what they want is order and authority, and if I were thinking of a candidate, in a way those would be the words I'd want my candidate to project.The scary thing is--when speaking in raw numbers--he's probably right.
T-Rex Redux
Jed at FreedomSight has resurrected the discussion.
And, yeah, I did intend it to be a one-man weapon--the scenario has to be one-on-one-- where you live or die based on your decision.
And, yeah, I did intend it to be a one-man weapon--the scenario has to be one-on-one-- where you live or die based on your decision.
WarOnGuns Voicemail: Two Seconds
I decided to give the Audioblogger feature a test run.
Fortunately it's the weekend, when site traffic slows down--so if this is a flop, not as many people will be there to point and laugh. I can find one mistake, but hey, at least I did the thing in one take and didn't say "uh." Plus, thanks to the miracle of duct tape, you can't hear the kids fighting in the background.
This commentary originally appeared in written form on GunTruths.com, and included an "Afterword:"
"Dennis Henigan of the Center to Prevent Handgun Violence drops the ball in front of a roomful of reporters, while trying to prove the efficacy of Saf-T-Lok, a purportedly easy-to-use combination lock in the gun's grip. Henigan fumbles and fails to unlock the gun in a well-lit room with no intruder at the door... Finally disengaging the safety, he apologizes, 'Most people aren't as klutzy as I am.'"
-From "Lawyers, Guns and Money" by Matt Labash, The Weekly Standard, Feb. 1, 1999
"Again, I learned from Massad Ayoob what has become known throughout the self-defense industry as the Tueller Drill. To our amazement, everyone in our class demonstrated that any person, no matter his age or physical condition, can cover twenty-one feet from a standing start and plunge a knife into a target in an average of 1.5 seconds..."
-From "Armed & Female" by Paxton Quigley
Baxley's Latest Gun Law
In a nutshell, Baxley's bill precludes property owners, employers and businesses from enacting rules prohibiting people who lawfully carry guns -- for example, holders of concealed-weapons permits -- from keeping their gun in their car on company property, specifically the parking lot.
Anybody who violates that faces a third-degree felony.
We've had this discussion before here at WarOnGuns.
Citizen Disarmament Dominican Republic-Style
"Here you need to have your gun out so the criminals see it and retreat," said Jose Dia, a 33-year-old businessman who recently bought a 9 mm pistol in the capital of Santo Domingo.
So naturally, the government's answer to criminal abuse and violence is to disallow the law-abiding from carrying guns without "special authorization."
And surprise, surprise:
Earlier this year, a team of 300 police officers and soldiers began searching vehicles at checkpoints and stopping people carrying guns on the streets to ask for permits.
The team confiscates about 1,000 illegally possessed guns a month, Almeyda said. But efforts are hindered by rampant police corruption, he conceded.
"When a police officer tells me his gun has been stolen, I order an immediate investigation because he probably sold it," Almeyda told The Associated Press.
Goodness. You'd think you were living in a Third World hellhole like New Orleans.
A Pig For Mahbubur
Yeah, you're real tolerant, Mahbubur. I'm about this close to posting your address and starting a Toy Pig Drive.NOVELTY pig calendars and toys have been banned from a council office — in case they offend Muslim staff...Councillor Mahbubur Rahman, a practising Muslim, backed the ban. He said: “It’s a tolerance of people’s beliefs.”
If the UK continues to "tolerate" this subversive nonsense, there'll be only one thing left to say about their culture:
D-d-dA-d-d-dA-d-d-Dat's all, folks![Thanks to Jim Peel]
Saturday, October 01, 2005
Fake Gun Registry Ran With Ottawa's Knowledge, Eh?
Here's the latest in the Canadian gun registration fiasco. Seems the government got its knickers in a wad over this:
The hosers got upset over that? Sure hope I don't get in trouble with this, eh?
A website that generated fake Canadian gun registrations continued to operate for more than a year after federal officials tried to shut it down.
A file from the website, registered in the United States, allowed visitors to fill in and print reproductions of Canadian firearms registration certificates.
[snip]
Under gun type, the drop-down menu included “nail gun,” “hair dryer,” and “pointy stick.”
The hosers got upset over that? Sure hope I don't get in trouble with this, eh?
How Very...Uhh... Orwellian
George Orwell, author and lifelong socialist, entered into a tax avoidance scheme on his deathbed as money began to flood in from the success of his final two books, Animal Farm and Nineteen Eighty-Four.
Aspiring New Orleans Cop Supports RKBA!
I have just finished reading the article entitled "What's Wrong With Gun Laws'' in the August issue of GUNS. Congratulations to Policeman "X" for one of the finest articles I have ever read. I am a member of National Rifle Association and seriously considering becoming a police officer of this city and this subject concerns me closely. I have and always will be a firm adversary of any legislation that takes any right from the average and honest citizen to keep and bear arms. I have always believed that if many of the restrictions on the purchase of handguns were lifted, there would be far less crime in this city than there is today.
Henry McKinell
New Orleans, Louisiana
Just one thing--this letter appeared in the Oct. 1955 issue of GUNS Magazine.
Download an issue for yourself. It's fun, it's informative and it's free.
About Those Bush Judicial Appointments
A federal District Court Judge has ruled that the privacy rights of illegal aliens convicted of heinous crimes in this country are more important than the public’s right to know if the government is properly enforcing a key immigration law.
Amazing as the ruling itself may be, what is even more stunning is the fact that U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia Judge Richard J. Leon was affirming the Bush administration’s position in the case. President Bush nominated Leon in 2001 and the Senate confirmed him in February 2002.
It's not stunning to me at all. It's part of a pattern I have come to expect. Just like with another one of Bush's nominees, Reggie Walton, who ruled the Second Amendment a collective, rather than an individual right.
Which brings to mind a favorite quote by a pal of mine:
We've been conned. Bare-ass naked in the town square conned.--Steiger
Pergunta Stupid*
"The [drug] dealers watch out for everyone in the neighborhood 24 hours a day, doing what the police don't," said do Espirito Santo, 43. "People here fear the police and their guns more than they do the dealers."
The inverted realities of Brazil's poorest neighborhoods have added complexity to the debate about gun control, but later this month every citizen from 18 to 70 will confront a clear, yes-no question: Should the sale of all types of guns and ammunition be banned nationwide for everyone except the police and military?
* "Stupid Question" in Portugese
Friday, September 30, 2005
On the Schumer/Feinstein CCWs
Jim Kouri of the National Association of Chiefs of Police writes:
Naturally, I'm trying to track down as much information as I can about these claims, including who the permit-issuing authorities are.
I called Landmark Legal Foundation, which Mr. Levin heads, and spoke with Eric Christensen. Mr. Christensen called Mr. Levin and then called me back, telling me the information for Sen. Feinstein came from Wikipedia/Answers.com, and the Schumer information "was from a cop from New Jersey who called in to Mark's show."
I let Mr. Christensen know that any further information that becomes known on this will be appreciated, and will keep my eyes and ears open. I'll try to track down that Wikipedia link later today. If somebody gets to it sooner, please let me know.
UPDATE:
The Feinstein Wikipedia link, which doesn't appear to address this, is here, and the Answers.com link, which does, is here. The Feinstein information has been around for some time--I don't know if it is still current--I've also read claims that she now has a US Marshal's badge allowing her to carry anywhere, but only bring it up because it's on topic, not because I can prove it.
Bottom line--if these claims are true, there's not much specificity to them, and the tracks have been covered well, at least beyond my limited ability to investigate.
At the same time, there are outspoken opponents of gun ownership, such as Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Diane Feinstein (D-CA), who are carrying concealed weapons, according to WABC Radio's Mark Levin.
Naturally, I'm trying to track down as much information as I can about these claims, including who the permit-issuing authorities are.
I called Landmark Legal Foundation, which Mr. Levin heads, and spoke with Eric Christensen. Mr. Christensen called Mr. Levin and then called me back, telling me the information for Sen. Feinstein came from Wikipedia/Answers.com, and the Schumer information "was from a cop from New Jersey who called in to Mark's show."
I let Mr. Christensen know that any further information that becomes known on this will be appreciated, and will keep my eyes and ears open. I'll try to track down that Wikipedia link later today. If somebody gets to it sooner, please let me know.
UPDATE:
The Feinstein Wikipedia link, which doesn't appear to address this, is here, and the Answers.com link, which does, is here. The Feinstein information has been around for some time--I don't know if it is still current--I've also read claims that she now has a US Marshal's badge allowing her to carry anywhere, but only bring it up because it's on topic, not because I can prove it.
Bottom line--if these claims are true, there's not much specificity to them, and the tracks have been covered well, at least beyond my limited ability to investigate.
What the Hell is Wrong With People?
Some northwest Louisiana gun shops saw an increase in sales in the weeks following Hurricane Katrina and owners attribute it to New Orleans area residents planning to return home.
I just don't get it. Talk about making a bad situation worse! Don't they know that guns cause violence? Only the police are professional enough to carry guns, and they will give you all the protection you need.
No?
"We Want Your Visit to be Safe and Positive"
The propaganda the Bradys are disseminating at Florida airports to scare off tourists really does show how sick these people are.
Here's their main handout, urging visitors to "take sensible precautions" while promulgating their deranged fantasy that life's setbacks prompt normal people to respond with lethal force.
Another handout, "The Brady Backgrounder," says Florida is "LICENSING AND IMMUNIZING PARANOID VIOLENCE."
To prove their point, the following scenario is posited:
Good Lord. That has to be one of the sicker fantasies I've seen. Whoever came up with it could use a mental health professional to get to the root of their neurotic distrust. And they call us paranoid?
Perhaps it would be helpful to remind visitors that being armed really does deter crime--as evidenced by all those tourists targeted a few years back because Florida citizens were--which influenced the predators to seek out easier prey.
Here's their main handout, urging visitors to "take sensible precautions" while promulgating their deranged fantasy that life's setbacks prompt normal people to respond with lethal force.
Another handout, "The Brady Backgrounder," says Florida is "LICENSING AND IMMUNIZING PARANOID VIOLENCE."
To prove their point, the following scenario is posited:
Imagine, if you will, the times in your life when you’ve been afraid of another human being: A motorist who threatened you on the highway, a group of teenagers who threatened you on a street corner, a homeless man who harassed you and called you names for refusing to give him spare change, a drunk in a bar who tries to pick a fight.
Now imagine that you killed all those people. Imagine that everyone killed all the people that ever gave them a nervous adrenalin rush.
Good Lord. That has to be one of the sicker fantasies I've seen. Whoever came up with it could use a mental health professional to get to the root of their neurotic distrust. And they call us paranoid?
Perhaps it would be helpful to remind visitors that being armed really does deter crime--as evidenced by all those tourists targeted a few years back because Florida citizens were--which influenced the predators to seek out easier prey.
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Debatable -- Should You Have the Right to Carry a Gun?
It's not debatable at all. I have that right. No one else has any legitimate say in the matter.
But this is the kind of nonsense we've come to expect from Racine's Green Party Alderman Pete Karas, who is organizing a demonstration demanding his constituents be disarmed under force of arms--and he no doubt will have a gaggle of ninnies with him bleating in agreement.
Karas is the same anti-defense fanatic who doesn't want the cops handing out Eddie Eagle coloring books to kids because "by making kids aware of guns ... they may, in essence, be harming children, especially those who are contemplating juvenile suicide or juvenile homicide."
Rational guy, eh? What must that say of his constituents? Maybe anyone who voted for him is too dumb to be trusted with weapons.
But this is the kind of nonsense we've come to expect from Racine's Green Party Alderman Pete Karas, who is organizing a demonstration demanding his constituents be disarmed under force of arms--and he no doubt will have a gaggle of ninnies with him bleating in agreement.
Karas is the same anti-defense fanatic who doesn't want the cops handing out Eddie Eagle coloring books to kids because "by making kids aware of guns ... they may, in essence, be harming children, especially those who are contemplating juvenile suicide or juvenile homicide."
Rational guy, eh? What must that say of his constituents? Maybe anyone who voted for him is too dumb to be trusted with weapons.
Inmate Found Carrying Gun in Courthouse
[T]he county jail inmate and convicted felon hid a .38-caliber snub-nosed revolver with hollow-point bullets, the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office said...
"We're still investigating how he got the gun," Sheriff's Office spokesman Lt. Chuck Lesaltato said. "We're looking at the whole thing from the time he was arrested to the time he was arrested at the courthouse."
Government "authorities" are at it again, with the same non-proprietary competence we've all come to expect.
How does the cliché go? When guns are outlawed...
And it's not like finding someone in custody with a firearm hasn't happened before [warning--graphic video].
And before.
And before...
Desperate Bradys Resort to Insults
The Brady Center will be protesting Florida's new self defense law.
Can you believe the nerve? Trying to make people think Floridians are violent hotheads who will shoot people over disagreements?
These liars have been waving red flags at gun owners for years. Yet the instances of violence and criminality we see all seem to come from the anti-defense zealots--not from armed Bill of Rights advocates.
I can think of a few creative and funny ways to (peaceably) monkeywrench these dolts--but I have a feeling they're going to make fools of themselves just fine without any outside help at all.
In a flier the group plans to pass out at Miami International Airport and possibly Orlando International Airport, tourists will be admonished to take precautions that include: "Do not argue unnecessarily with local people."
Can you believe the nerve? Trying to make people think Floridians are violent hotheads who will shoot people over disagreements?
These liars have been waving red flags at gun owners for years. Yet the instances of violence and criminality we see all seem to come from the anti-defense zealots--not from armed Bill of Rights advocates.
I can think of a few creative and funny ways to (peaceably) monkeywrench these dolts--but I have a feeling they're going to make fools of themselves just fine without any outside help at all.
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Miers to Replace O'Connor?
Will Harriet Miers be Bush's pick for the Supreme Court?
God, I hope not.
She's a big proponent of "Project Safe Neighborhoods", so we know where she stands on "shall not be infringed."
Shoulder-to-shoulder with other supporters of the federal gun control program.
God, I hope not.
She's a big proponent of "Project Safe Neighborhoods", so we know where she stands on "shall not be infringed."
Shoulder-to-shoulder with other supporters of the federal gun control program.
A Temporary Delay
House Majority Leader Tom Delay has temporarily stepped down from the leadership position following his indictment by a Texas grand jury on campaign finance conspiracy charges.
Rep. Roy Blunt of Missouri, the current Republican whip, will temporarily fill the leadership position.
This should not change much for gun owners. Delay has an A rating and Blunt has an A- rating from GOA.
Rep. Roy Blunt of Missouri, the current Republican whip, will temporarily fill the leadership position.
This should not change much for gun owners. Delay has an A rating and Blunt has an A- rating from GOA.
Government Gun Control
The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is joining the investigation of a state-run gun museum in Claremore... three cannons and about six-thousand guns are missing from the museum. Officials have said one gun from the museum was found at a crime scene in New York and another was found in Maine.
Sometimes I think if we just let the incompetent boobs run everything without opposition, we might actually end up with more freedom.
Homeowner Buys Gun After His Home Was Robbed In Montgomery
I guess it's better late than never.
Can you imagine watching intruders break into your home--and being helpless to protect your family?
I wonder if he's been sufficiently awakened to start helping in the fight to preserve rkba that's been going on while he slumbered?
Can you imagine watching intruders break into your home--and being helpless to protect your family?
I wonder if he's been sufficiently awakened to start helping in the fight to preserve rkba that's been going on while he slumbered?
The Braindead Tree
To some, who played cops and robbers and cowboys and Indians by the hour in their youth, this zero tolerance could seem like overreacting, but times are different now. An aggressive approach against weapons in school, real or toy, is a necessity in this age of violence.
More manipulated nonsense from those in charge. What are the chances inmates raised under this level of hysteria will grow into free citizens--jealous of their heritage of liberty and prepared to defend it?
What, the IRA HASN'T Disarmed?
"The more spotlight is put on this, the more we discover there is a cover-up.
"Part of the weapons that should have been decommissioned have disappeared and security forces admit they are probably in the hands of dissidents."
What a surprise.
Who could have imagined this might happen?
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Hessian Continues War on Guns/Reuters Continues War on Truth
California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said on Friday that citizen patrols of his state's border with Mexico must be unarmed to avoid violence... Schwarzenegger had expressed support in April for the vigilantes, who began patrolling the U.S.-Mexican border in Arizona to draw attention to illegal immigration...
Arnhole's move doesn't surprise me--I would expect no less from a foreign national (he never gave up his Austrian citizenship--even though he swore an oath to renounce it when he "became" an American) who was the first governor to ban, among other things, politically incorrect caliber bolt action and semiauto rifles. I also expect California gun owners will roll over in fear and vote for him again because of the Democrats--again giving the Republicans carte blanche to continue their betrayals under the can't-prove it-by-me "lesser of two evils" doctrine. And I expect the major gun groups to continue giving the Hessian a pass--just like they did last time--and to withhold the truth from their members about their involvement with Arnold, as evidenced by this deleted page.
Also deleted for some (CYA) reason is Reuters' explanation for why they no longer use the word "terrorist" when describing head-sawing, civilian-bombing savages. I bring this up because "reporter" Jim Christie isn't shy about branding peaceable Americans who simply observe and report crimes to the authorities as "vigilantes." So much for Reuters' vaunted editorial pledge:
We do not take sides and attempt to reflect in our stories, pictures and video the views of all sides. We are not in the business of glorifying one side or another or of disseminating propaganda. Reuters journalists do not offer their own opinions or views.
Right.
[Liberty Belles]
Monday, September 26, 2005
Who Could Be Kookier Than Wendy?
Wendy Cukier, that is.
Therapeutic for whom?
Seems to me if people are helpless and being slaughtered, the answer is to make them not helpless. And how will forcing those who don't engage in massacres into telling you what guns they own gonna help?
The Canadian government has spent [visualize Dr. Evil here] $2 BILLION Dollars on a gun registration boondoggle that most Canadians just ignore.
But apparently it's "therapeutic" for Wendy to know she's an apologist for coercing, criminalizing and destroying her countrymen if they don't bend to her sick will.
I guess the question is, how long are Canadians going to allow kooky broads like this any say at all when it comes to their rights?
Cukier, president of the Toronto-based Coalition for Gun Control, says the long hours she's put in lobbying the government to bring in tougher gun laws have been therapeutic.
The Ryerson University professor says the 1989 Montreal massacre, in which 14 young female students were gunned down, prompted her to take up the cause.
Therapeutic for whom?
Seems to me if people are helpless and being slaughtered, the answer is to make them not helpless. And how will forcing those who don't engage in massacres into telling you what guns they own gonna help?
The Canadian government has spent [visualize Dr. Evil here] $2 BILLION Dollars on a gun registration boondoggle that most Canadians just ignore.
But apparently it's "therapeutic" for Wendy to know she's an apologist for coercing, criminalizing and destroying her countrymen if they don't bend to her sick will.
I guess the question is, how long are Canadians going to allow kooky broads like this any say at all when it comes to their rights?
Disasters, Unease Draw New Customers to Firearms
I suppose it's better late than never. And such trends--especially in "liberal" places like Oahu--gotta show the Bradys how irrelvant they are when TSHTF, which is a good thing.
But sometimes I feel like an alien in my own culture:
What is this permit you speak of?
But sometimes I feel like an alien in my own culture:
What is this permit you speak of?
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