Guns in Space

After tripping into a constitutional gun rights controversy, the FAA has amended a rule that bans carrying guns on commercial space ships.

I guess after complaining that no one from the "authorized journalist" camp was picking up on this story, I should be grateful for this exposure, even if it is on the ABC blog as opposed to their news site, even if they didn't credit the source, and even if their attitude is borderline belittling and only marginally on point.

That whole gift horse/mouth thing always seemed counterintuitive...

This might be a good time to contact "mainstream" new providers and ask them why they thought this story wasn't important enough to call to the attention of their readers/viewers. More of my thoughts on that are here and here.

A Note on Reciprocity

In the past week, I've probably added around half a dozen sites to my blogroll that I discovered while checking Technorati or my counters.

If you've linked to WarOnGuns and I haven't reciprocated, it probably means I just haven't noticed yet. Please don't feel slighted--just tell me so I can update the list.

This Day in History: February 22

On this day in 1777, Revolutionary War leader and Georgia’s first Provisional Governor Archibald Bulloch dies under mysterious circumstances just hours after Georgia’s Council of Safety grants him the powers of a dictator in expectation of a British invasion.

Zumbo Fallout Continues

After all, we didn't turn out in those numbers when Congresswoman McCarthy re-introduced the Assault Weapons Ban last week. Responses like the ones we've seen over the past two days would have melted down the Congressional e-mail servers.

Agreed. If we focused half the energy on treasonous politicians, particularly Republican sellouts, as we have on a mere hunting writer, it would scare the hell out of them.

[Via Blogonomicon]

The Usual NRA Board Candidate Questionnaire- 2007

Voting members have until March 25 to get their ballots for NRA Board of Directors mailed in and received. As usual, the Nominating Committee has selected a group of candidates to perpetuate "The Winning Team." As usual, another faction is urging us to vote for outsiders. And as usual, some opinion makers are urging us to vote based on their personal experience with or devotion to particular candidates.

So what to do?

As usual, The War on Guns has prepared a questionnaire, designed to separate the Freedom Fighters from the Fuddites. And as usual, I don't expect any candidate to put their stance in the public record for scrutiny, so as usual, I don't expect I'll be voting (again) this year.

Here it is. If you're a candidate who wants my vote and endorsement, fill in the answers, send it back to me, and if you get them right, I'll do what I can to support you.

To those of you who are voting members and would like to see candidates answer these questions: Use them yourselves. One of the reasons these are ignored is because I'm the only one asking them. If each candidate received numerous demands, do you think they'd be so quick to discount any need to respond? If you get a reply, let me know about it.

---------------------------------------------------------------

1. Do you believe that the Constitution is the "supreme law of the land" and that the Bill of Rights acknowledges the birthrights of all Americans?

2. If so, should these rights be proactively protected from infringement by all levels of government, including city, county and state?

3. Please give some examples of gun laws you consider constitutional.

4. Please give some examples of gun laws you consider unconstitutional.

5. Does the right to bear arms include the right for any peaceable citizen to carry them concealed without a permit, as in Vermont?

6. Do you believe that Americans have a right to own, use and carry weapons of military pattern?

7. Do you support or oppose Project Exile, and do you agree with current NRA management’s call to “enforce existing gun laws”?

8. Do you support or oppose licensing requirements to own or carry firearms? Why?

9. What specific gun laws will you work to get repealed?

10. If elected to the NRA Board, will you back your words of support for firearms rights up with consistent actions? How?

11. Do you agree with the way NRA assigns political ratings? If not, what would you change and why? Who would you have given a different rating to, what would it been and why?

12. Do you disagree with any policies being promulgated by NRA management? What is you biggest area of dissent? Have you offered superior alternatives and worked with others to implement them?

13. Have you ever publicly spoken out against an NRA position because you thought it was wrong? When, where, and what were the results?

14. What reforms do you think are needed at NRA and why?

15. If elected, how will you inform members of your performance and voting record? Will you let us know when you dissent and why?

16. Do you agree with Executive VP Wayne LaPierre, who stated: "[W]e believe in absolutely gun-free, zero-tolerance, totally safe schools. That means no guns in America's schools, period ... with the rare exception of law enforcement officers or trained security personnel"? If not, what do you plan to do about it?

2006 Questionnaire
2005 Questionnaire

"This is About as Stupid as Anything You Can Do"

After the Trolley Square shooting last week, Jenkins said he was surprised that any of his colleagues would support a bill to create another gun-free zone where criminals don't have to worry about concealed weapons permit holders.

"This is about as stupid as anything you can do. They're just telling everyone, 'I don't have a gun, so come shoot me,"' Jenkins said.

Kudos to Scott Jenkins. And Greg Bell and Lyle Hillyard: you guys are tools.

Claire Weighs in on Zumbo

Remind me never to get this woman mad at me.

We're the Only Ones Getting Away With Shocking Stuff Enough

The sentence handed down by U.S. District Judge Casey Rodgers -- in the case of a former Escambia County deputy found guilty of repeatedly shocking an innocent woman with a Taser -- is itself shocking.

Six months of house arrest, 50 hours of community service, five years on probation and a $3,000 fine?

The judge had tough words for Charles Dix, but the sentence didn't match them.

In other developments, it also looks like our "Only Ones" Carnival's Big Top ring master was placed on probation and had to write a letter. Harsh doesn't begin to describe it.

I guess that's why they're "The Only Ones" and we're not.

[Via Andre]

Fincher Attorney Jailed

In his lawsuit, Stilley alleged that Sebastian County had illegally imposed taxes on reappraised real property, and that taxpayers should be able to recover those taxes because they were not paid voluntarily. The lawsuit and its predecessors were dismissed as without merit, and the dismissals were upheld by the Arkansas Supreme Court.

I wonder if they allowed him to argue the law?

[More about Wayne Fincher via WarOnGuns]

A Zumbo Bleg

Armed and Safe is looking for a magazine...

This Day in History: February 21

On this day in 1777, George Weedon is promoted to the rank of brigadier general of the Virginia Regiment of the Continental Army.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FAA WITHDRAWS COLLECTIVE RIGHTS INTEPRETATION OF SECOND AMENDMENT

A WarOnGuns Exclusive

In reference to previous posts and observations presented by The War on Guns:



The new text is as follows:

[Federal Register: February 20, 2007 (Volume 72, Number 33)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 7740-7741]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr20fe07-3]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration.

14 CFR Parts 401, 415, 431, 435, 440, and 460

[Docket No. FAA-2005-23449]
RIN 2120-AI57


Human Space Flight Requirements for Crew and Space Flight Participants

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; correction.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: When the FAA issued a final rule on human space flight, it described one rule as consistent with the Second Amendment of the Constitution because, among other things, the right to bear arms under the Second Amendment is a collective right. The FAA now withdraws that characterization and amends its description.

DATES: This correction is effective February 20, 2007.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For technical information, contact Kenneth Wong, Deputy Manager, Licensing and Safety Division, Commercial Space Transportation, AST-200, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone (202) 267-8465; facsimile (202) 267-3686, e-mail ken.wong@faa.gov. For legal information, contact Laura Montgomery, Senior Attorney, Office of the Chief Counsel, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence
Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone (202) 267-3150; facsimile
(202) 267-7971, e-mail laura.montgomery@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: As required by the Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004, the FAA established Human Space Flight Requirements for Crew and Space Flight Participants, 71 FR 75616 (Dec. 15, 2006). The FAA's new requirements for commercial human space flight include a rule on security mandating that operators ``implement security requirements to prevent any space flight participant from jeopardizing the safety of the flight crew or the public'' and prohibiting a space flight participant from carrying on board ``any explosives, firearms, knives or other weapons.'' 14 CFR 460.53. In explaining this rule in response to a comment, the FAA characterized the right to bear arms under the Second Amendment of the Constitution as ``a collective right.'' 71 FR at 75626. The FAA now withdraws that characterization of the right to bear arms. The prohibition on the carriage of firearms by participants in commercial space flights remains unchanged.
The Executive Branch, through the Department of Justice, interprets the Second Amendment as securing a right of individuals to keep and bear arms. (See Memorandum for the Attorney General from Steven G. Bradbury, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel, et al., Re: Whether The Second Amendment Secures An Individual Right (Aug. 24, 2004), available at http://www.usdoj.gov/olcsecondoamendment2.pdf ). In light of this interpretation, the FAA is withdrawing the statement made in the final rule.
Regardless of the nature of the right, however, it remains true, as we noted, that the right is, like any other, not unfettered. The Justice Department itself made this abundantly clear in its analysis and through its historical review. (See generally id. at 1-5, 6 n.19, 8 n.29, 18 n.68, 61-68, 73, 81-82, 87-98, 102-04.) Similarly, the Fifth Circuit, which treats the right to bear arms as an

[[Page 7741]]

individual right, has stated, ``Although, as we have held, the Second Amendment does protect individual rights, that does not mean that those rights may never be made subject to any limited, narrowly tailored specific exceptions or restrictions for particular cases that are reasonable and not inconsistent with the right of Americans generally to individually keep and bear their private arms as historically
understood in this country.'' U.S. v. Emerson, 270 F.3d 203 (5th Cir.
2001).
The FAA continues to believe that the possession of weapons by space flight participants on board a suborbital rocket poses an unacceptably high risk to the integrity of the vehicle and the safety of the public, and that the rule is consistent with the Second Amendment. In proposing the rule, we pointed out that ``[s]ecurity restrictions currently apply to passengers for airlines. Some of the restrictions prohibit a person carrying explosives, firearms, knives, or other weapons from boarding an airplane. Similar types of security restrictions for launch or reentry vehicles would contribute to the safety of the public by preventing a space flight participant from potentially interfering with the flight crew's ability to protect the public.'' 70 FR 77262-01, 77271. In response to the comment regarding
the Second Amendment, we added that ``in 1958, Congress made it a criminal offense to knowingly carry a firearm onto an airplane engaged in air transportation. 49 U.S.C. 46505.'' 71 FR at 75626. The FAA thus has authority to issue this rule.

Correction

In final rule FR Doc. No FAA-2005-23449, published on December 15,2006 (71 FR 75616), make the following correction: On page 75626, in the third column, fourth full paragraph, lines 16 through 20, correct, ``Additionally, nearly all courts have also held that the Second Amendment is a collective right, rather than a personal
right. Therefore, despite the Second Amendment collective right to bear arms, the FAA has'' to read ``By analogy, and for the reasons given when the FAA issued its human space flight requirements, the FAA has, consistent with the right to bear arms secured by the Second Amendment.''
* * * * *

Issued in Washington, DC, on February 14, 2007.
Rebecca MacPherson,
Assistant Chief Counsel for Regulations.
[FR Doc. E7-2851 Filed 2-16-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

Now the debate can focus on the "fettering" (read "infringing") aspect of the rule. You may ask "so what?" as if this changes nothing, but in fact, withdrawing the collective rights interpetation is significant, and here's the reality I want WoG readers to walk away understanding: If you know you're right, keep pushing--even if those with vastly more reach ignore you and others actively oppose you or put you down for it--all of which happened in this case. We can't let that deter us from doing what's right. We, and by that, know that it includes YOU, can effect change when the truths we present are undeniable.

Cabela's Reviewing Zumbo TV Sponsorship

Additionally, Cabela's has not yet dropped their sponsorship of the Jim Zumbo Outdoors television show, Cabela's Frank Ross is being quoted as having said their legal department is "currently reviewing contractual obligations and commitments regarding our sponsorship of the Jim Zumbo Outdoors television show.

Jim Shepherd gives us a pretty comprehensive recap of the whole sorry Zumbo affair.

UPDATE: Blog O'Stuff has more.

Klueless in Kennesaw

After the law was passed, there have been few accidental shootings in Kennesaw and none involving children in the 20 years that Lt. Craig Graydon has been with the department.

Yet the law is not known by all residents and it is not strictly enforced. No one has ever been arrested for not owning a gun and there is no penalty for violating the city ordinance, Graydon said.

That's good news for Mary Kopins, who has lived in the city for seven years.

"I hadn't heard of it," she said. "I hope that doesn't mean I have to go out and get a gun."

How can you live there for seven years and not know about it? No, Mary, you don't have to do anything. Continue grazing contentedly. But just one question: You have heard of wolves, haven't you?

We're the Only Ones Switched Enough

Amends the Criminal Code of 1961. Provides that the unlawful use of weapons statute does not apply to the purchase, possession, or carrying of a switchblade knife by a peace officer.

Mr. Bernstein? Mr. Sondheim? Music, please:

When you're a Jet,
You're the swingin'est thing:
Little boy, you're a man;
Little man, you're a king!

...Here come the Jets
Like a bat out of hell.
Someone gets in our way,
Someone don't feel so well!

[Via 45superman]

[More from "The Only Ones" files...]

We're the Only Ones Lost in the Country Enough

An investigation continued this weekend into the shooting of a farmer by a Fresno County sheriff's deputy who apparently went to the wrong address to check on a 911 call...

The deputy told investigators a man wearing a ski mask and armed with a gun came out of the house and pointed a gun at him...the sheriff has not released the deputy's name.

Srabian's sister...said her brother was wearing a beanie, which he likes to pull down low to cover his ears to protect him from the cold. She said believes her brother, who had been in the dining room, heard a dog barking, noticed a car outside and armed himself when he went outside.

"The sheriff has not released the deputy's name." Oh well, we know who the Srabians are, that ought to be enough.

And let's be fair. 7297 E. Walter Ave. does sound awful similar to 7274--and even if they are on opposite sides of the road, they share 2 digits. Besides, who among us hasn't confused a beanie with a ski mask?

Let this be a lesson to you if you live in the country where help isn't instantly available--guns only make the problem worse. If you must investigate strange unexpected visitors, always do so unarmed. Unless you're a trained "Only One."

Classified by the Oblivious

In 2003, Akins Group Inc. developed the Akins Accelerator, a bumpfire stock for a Ruger 10/22 that can produce about 650 rounds/minute. The company received classification letters from the BATFE agreeing that the stock was not a firearm and therefore unregulated.

Akins performed approximately 18 months of testing, built injection molds based on the results, and began offering the Accelerator to the public in December of 2006.

True to form, the BATFE suddenly decided that the plastic stock was in fact a machine gun. The considerable time, effort, and of course money Akins invested into the project has been rendered essentially useless.

JPFO gives us the lowdown on the latest BATFU outrage. That approval letter ought to be grounds for a lawsuit to recover all costs incurred based on relying on it. And whoever signed it should be found personally liable.

[Via Wm H]

Return of the Unix_Jedi

De-Zumbo the NRA
and
A Damn Good Question

How can you not like a guy who agrees with me? The force is strong in this one!

A Stock Answer

Yeah, I know, it's mean to kick a man when he's down.

But this is pretty damn funny.

"Staples Stock Clerk."

Laughing here...

[Via Countertop]

Females with Firearms

It was a Valentine's gift from her husband: gun lessons at a firing range. It’s a new trend turning heads nationwide... And in Kentuckiana.

More good news from friend Barry Laws, and his great new facility, Open Range. And it's refreshing to see the place get good press.

Barry took a risk moving from California to pursue a dream. It looks like it's paying off, and I'm glad for him.

We're the Only Ones Who Can Defend Ourselves

An off-duty D.C. police officer shot a man who officials say was trying to rob him today.

Any guess what the police office would have done had he been on duty, and a non-"Only One" defended himself by shooting someone?

[Via Gun Law News]

This Day in History: February 20

On this day in 1792, President George Washington signs legislation renewing the United States Post Office as a cabinet department led by the postmaster general, guaranteeing inexpensive delivery of all newspapers, stipulating the right to privacy and granting Congress the ability to expand postal service to new areas of the nation.

Wonder what George would have thought of this...

Statement from Outdoor Life

Due to the controversy surrounding Jim Zumbo’s recent postings, Outdoor Life has decided to discontinue the “Hunting With Zumbo” blog for the time being. Outdoor Life has always been, and will always be, a steadfast supporter of our Second Amendment rights, which do not make distinctions based on the looks of the firearms we choose to own, shoot and take hunting. Please direct any comments you have to OLletters@time4.com.

Many thanks to Civis Proeliator for the heads up.

UPDATE: I just tried to access the original Zumbo blog posts and it looks like they've been deactivated--I had to access the original via Google cache:
Assault Rifles for Hunters?--but note most--and I mean most--of the comments are missing. [Update: Comments appear to be in the cached version again last time I checked.]

His "I Was Wrong Big Time" apology post isn't there at all (for the time being?)
[Update: Here is the cached version]

Perhaps this is a temporary glitch? If not, poor judgment on the part of Outdoor Life--it makes them look like revisionist historians.

If that's the case, this will not endear them to the angry horde.

I didn't realize they could make this situation any worse for themselves. Maybe it's time to use that email link.

Remington to Sever Sponsorship Ties with Jim Zumbo

Madison, North Carolina – As a result of comments made by Mr. Jim Zumbo in recent postings on his blog site, Remington Arms Company, Inc., has severed all sponsorship ties with Mr. Zumbo effective immediately. While Mr. Zumbo is entitled to his opinions and has the constitutional right to freely express those options, these comments are solely his, and do not reflect the views of Remington.

“Remington has spent tens of millions of dollars defending our Second Amendment rights to privately own and possess firearms and we will continue to vigorously fight to protect these rights,” commented Tommy Millner, Remington’s CEO and President. “As hunters and shooters of all interest levels, we should strive to utilize this unfortunate occurrence to unite as a whole in support of our Second Amendment rights.”

We regret having to terminate our long-standing relationship with Mr. Zumbo, who is a well-respected writer and life-long hunter.

###

We're the Only Ones Going Into 17 Twice Enough

A Los Angeles police officer has been arrested by Chino police on suspicion of raping a 17-year-old girl, authorities said Sunday...

Sandwell and the teenager live in Chino, where the girl told police the attack took place, Cheatham said. "We're investigating the possibility of more than one incident involving the same girl," he said

These guys keep showing up too late for the Love Fest.

Why do I feel like breaking into a number from "The Sound of Music"...?

You are seventeen, going on eighteen
I-I'll take ca-are of you...

[Via Andre C]

[More from "The Only Ones" files...]

Unsnapped

Sorry, Uncle. It's been removed.

I thought I was being cool.

Does this mean I need to return my G-Unit hoody, too, yo?

"Severing Our Sponsorship"

I will, of course, post the announcement in its entirety.

RELATED READING

The 2A Two-Step

So I'm a hunter and believe in Second Amendment rights, but I also believe that assault weapons are not needed in the public population.

Alphecca has transcribed part of an interview with weasel-worder extraordinaire Mitt Romney, who shows us why a vote for him is a vote for Jim Zumbo. You guys holding your nose on the new WarOnGuns poll (see left margin) who say you'd still vote for this lying creep who is only using you--are you sure you want to do that?

Think about it: The entire gun activist is up in arms and threatening boycotts over a stupid outdoors writer's ignorant remarks. They demanded his head, and it looks like, from Remington's standpoint at least, they got it.

Based on gun owner reaction, they wouldn't want any of the three leading GOP candidates to be retained as gun writers, but they'd accept them as president? Does that make sense?

So what am I saying, that I want to help Hillary?

Nope. I'm merely making a statement based on observable facts--and here's one more: Zumbo's ignorant diatribe resulted in thousands of furious comments on his blog, and countless angry emails to Outdoor Life, Remington, etc. Nice use of energy and outrage--but why don't we see enraged gun owners doing this to the chairman of the Republican party as well, now, while there's still a chance to affect the momentum?

Where is the LEADERSHIP from those who have the political reach (i.e., NRA) organizing a DEMAND to the Republican party that they field a candidate who understands the Second Amendment and will use his bully pulpit to proactively educate and evangelize to the voters about it? If someone wants to be a leader, don't you agree the Bill of Rights would be a good place to start leading?

Why is it we have the energy to storm the Bastille over a trivial hunting column, but when it comes time to applying it to something meaningful, we can't seem to mount an offensive?

We're the Only Ones Two-Timing Enough

A police captain has been arrested for the second time in just over two months on charges of assaulting a 32-year-old woman with whom he had a relationship, the police said.

Too bad this one was too late for the "Love 'Only Ones' Style" festival.

It's a good thing she didn't lift a finger against him.

[Via Declan]

"New York-Style Crackdown"

Prime Minister Tony Blair's proposals for tackling gun crime are the lead for the Sunday Times.

It says Downing Street plans a New York-style crackdown

Elect Rudy Giuliani president and you'll see a "New York-style crackdown" nationally here as well. Take note of that, those of you voting to hold your nose in the new WarOnGuns poll (left margin).

This Day in History: February 19

On this day in 1777, the Continental Congress votes to promote Thomas Mifflin; Arthur St. Clair; William Alexander, Lord Stirling; Adam Stephen; and Benjamin Lincoln to the rank of major general. Although the promotions were intended in part to balance the number of generals from each state, Brigadier General Benedict Arnold felt slighted that five junior officers received promotions ahead of him and, in response, threatened to resign from the Patriot army.

BREAKING NEWS: REMINGTON TERMINATES RELATIONSHIP WITH ZUMBO

A comment on the Zumbo blog was purported to be by Tommy Millner, CEO of Remington.

I wanted to verify before posting about it, and sent him the following:

Mr. Millner,

I have seen a statement attributed to you on Jim Zumbo’s blog, but unfortunately there is no way to authenticate that it really came from you.

I would like to post your statement unedited, in its entirety on my blog. Care to give one?

Thank you,

David Codrea

I just received the following reply:



RELATED READING

"I Also Play by the Rules"

To all those promoting Wayne Fincher’s being elevated to folk hero status for breaking the law, enough already. The argument of Second Amendment violation in this circumstance is ridiculous. Neither the Constitution, nor the Bill of Rights contains a single word about automatic weapons. Also absent is any mention of anti-tank weapons, driving under the influence, dealing drugs at the local schoolyard or child pornography. These are all issues we, as a society, have deemed to be generally bad ideas, and we put in place laws to deal with the excesses of others.

Mr. Fincher’s case is not a Second Amendment case. It is a case about not following the rules, or more precisely, interpreting the rules to suit one’s own interests.

Before dismissing this as another letter from the fringe, I am a gun enthusiast, a consultant to the firearms industry, NRA member, and I hold a federal firearms license. I also play by the rules.

Russ Whitfield

Fort Smith

Congratulations, Russ.

Jim Zumbo couldn't have said it any better.

If the Wayne Finchers of this country all fall, their enemies will turn their attention to the useful rule-playing idiots soon enough.

New WarOnGuns Poll: How Will YOU Vote?

See the left margin for the new poll. What do we do, people, keep accepting the "lesser of two evils" because it's "pragmatic"?

Results of last week's poll:

If armed resistance to governmental overreach became necessary, would you:

Hunting With Dumbo

I call them "assault" rifles, which may upset some people. Excuse me, maybe I'm a traditionalist, but I see no place for these weapons among our hunting fraternity. I'll go so far as to call them "terrorist" rifles.

I know resorting to ad hominem attacks is inferior to attacking the idea, but Jim Zumbo's arguments are so damned stupid, ignorant and downright treasonous, I can't help but consider the source.

This is "one of the country's most well known and respected outdoorsmen"? He might as well be writing Brady press releases.

Yo, genius: You don't think they'll be coming after your "sniper rifles" next, you "animal murderer"?

[Via Nathan F]

UPDATE: The Pistolero and JR include some links to other bloggers covering this.

Nagin's in Contempt...

...but the NRA/SAF mouthpiece padded his bill.

Again, we run into the same lack of plain decency I've been pointing out since I began covering the press releases on cases the two groups jointly supported:

Again and
again and
again and
again and
again and
again...

NRA-ILA does not give any credit to SAF.

SAF always gives joint credit to NRA.

I guess the guys in the nice suits at Fairfax believe what their apologists maintain--that every dime going to another organization is "diverted" money.

[Link to contempt order via Cousin G]

A Foregone Conclusion

British Prime Minister Tony Blair announced a major review of firearms laws in the UK on Sunday, following a spate of fatal shootings in London.

You don't think there's any chance he'll conclude they contribute to the problem, do you?

[Via Cousin G]

Why She's Poor

"They say this country is so rich, but why are so many people living paycheck to paycheck, just one week from being in the street?"

While not gun rights-related, this has all the elements employed by the gun banners, that is, blaming everything BUT poor individual choices and abdication of personal responsibility. It really is a very good essay by The Free Citizen.

Carnival Time...

...at Free Constitution.

Go on over and find "the best 2nd Amendment coverage the blogosphere has to offer."

This Day in History: February 18

From Norfolk, Virginia, Royal Governor John Murray, 4th Earl of Dunmore, dispatches a note to William Legge, 2nd Earl of Dartmouth, expressing his "inexpressible mortification" that British Major General Sir Henry Clinton had been ordered to the "insignificant province of North Carolina to the neglect of this the richest and powerfully important province in America." Dunmore was facing expulsion from Virginia at the hands of the Patriots and was deeply insulted that the army chose to defend its claims to the less significant colony of North Carolina instead of the economically and politically vital colony of Virginia.

Time for Another 2A Carnival

Over at Stan's place, tomorrow.

If you have a blog post you want to submit, get it to him today--and please don't wait until the last minute. It ain't easy getting everything done, especially if you're rushing it.

[Image "swiped" from Free Constitution:) ]

A Compromise I Can Live With

I have been accused of being an extremist in defense of the right to own and to carry, anywhere you see fit, any type of weapon whatsoever, in any way you wish, without asking permission from anyone. I suppose it is time to reconsider and announce I am ready to accept "reasonable gun laws".

Ordinarily, I'd blast a presidential candidate for suggesting a compromise involving gun rights. But in this case, I think I'll get behind the effort.

Airline Passengers Bill of Rights

See the 3rd comment down...

Positively UnAmerican

Think he's got plenty of armed security?

[Via John Schaefer]

I Think John Just Got It

John H. Adler believes that Americans who believe in the Constitutionally guaranteed fundamental human right of the individual to keep and bear arms "don't get it."

So Kurt Hofmann gives it to him. And how.

We're the Only...What Did You Say About My Mother?

A New York man, enraged that his girlfriend had been ensnared in a drug probe, is himself facing a felony rap for a vulgar telephone tirade directed at the parents of a federal agent.

I had mixed feelings about posting this one, knowing the way most of us would react. Still, I find it hard to believe that felony charges would be filed were a non- "Only One" was involved.

WARNING: Title link goes to story with graphic language.

[Via Bounty Hunter]

Ammo Control in Jersey

Yeah, that'll solve all their problems.

Be sure and follow the links to the press release and actual "report."

Well, we knew it was coming.

[Via Paul Nelson]

"And for Other Purposes"

H.R. 1022: To reauthorize the assault weapons ban, and for other purposes

Well of course. Nobody informed really thinks it's about controlling guns, do they?

The "no cosponsors" at this point is interesting. We'll keep an eye on this one...

In the mean time, do all the usuual stuff--inform your friends, and go ahead and write your reps if you think it won't give them evil pleasure. I don't bother with Jane Harman, but that's just based on bitter experience...

[Via Les K]

This Day in History: February 17

The worldwide implications of the American War for Independence are made clear on this day in history as the American-allied French navy begins a 14-month-long series of five battles with the British navy in the Indian Ocean.

Love "Only Ones" Style

Maybe it's because it's Valentine's Week, maybe there's just something in the air, but these all came to my attention in literally the space of a few hours yesterday--I did not set out looking for them.


WARNING: The stories are "adult" in nature, that is, if you consider sexual predation and perversion to be adult qualities. If you think you might be offended, stop reading now.



We're the Only Ones Rubbed the Wrong Way Enough

At least six Inglewood police officers are suspected of having on- and off-duty sex at massage parlors and other adult businesses targeted in a recent crackdown on the businesses, according to officials. Acting Chief Julius Davis said his department is investigating the allegations of sexual favors in exchange for protection from prosecution, but he added that there is no evidence of criminal acts.

"We have not found anything that indicates there's any criminal conduct involved," Davis said.

No, of course not, Chief. Between that and the rape the FBI is investigating, the mask-wearing, the gun-pointing, the exposing, the fact that nobody's been fired and you're conducting your own hen house investigation, why on earth would anyone suspect a crime has been committed? It sounds like just another day at the Inglewood PD...

We're the Only Ones Gender-Bending (Over) Enough

City Council members have asked the state attorney general's office to investigate claims of sexual misconduct, racism and brutality at the police department after residents complained officers were mistreating Hispanic immigrants.

What, you mean declaring itself a "sanctuary city" just ensured an undocumented victim pool in Maywood that could be exploited? Who could have guessed?

My favorite revelation:

One of the claims under investigation is that a high-ranking officer forced a transsexual man to have sex with him multiple times over seven years, the newspaper reported.

We're the Only Ones Coming Into Your Life (and Your Open Car Window) Enough

No one disputes that an on-duty Irvine police officer got an erection and ejaculated on a motorist during an early-morning traffic stop in Laguna Beach. The female driver reported it, DNA testing confirmed it and officer David Alex Park finally admitted it.

Hmmm. Sounds like a moving violation.

[Via Tavis S]

We're the Only Ones Exposed Enough

Former U.S. Rep. Joseph M. McDade has been charged with exposing himself to two women Jan. 18 near a southwest Florida beach, police there said Wednesday.

You'll recall that the "Only Ones" designation isn't reserved exclusively for LEOs, but applies to all government elites "with power and abilities far beyond those of mortal men."

I went after McDade over 10 years ago, first because he was a Republican who supported the federal "assault weapons" ban, but also, because when indicted for conspiracy, bribery and racketeering, the coward tried to use the Constitution's speech or debate clause to claim legal immunity.


"Isn't it hypocritical," I wrote at the time, "that this individual should reject the plain language of the Bill of Rights and then use a cynically manipulative misinterpretation of that same Constitution in a desperate attempt to save his skin?"

It looks like this time, McDade doesn't need anyone else to expose him for being what he is.

[More from "The Only Ones" files...]

Boycott Succeeds in Removing Signs

A handful of local gun owners say they plan to boycott - when they can - businesses that post signs prohibiting concealed handguns under the state's new concealed carry law.

Mall Manager Dan Flores, who supports posting "No Guns" signs, just doesn't get it, does he?

"Just look at what happened at the Trolley Center," he said, referring to a shooting this week at a Utah mall, where a teen killed five people.

Yeah, just look, Dan. Those signs sure work great.

And in spite of her removing the signs, I'm afraid I'd still avoid anything run by A. J. Connard because of this life-endangering belief:

I'm not that afraid of people coming in with guns. I just turn myself and my employees over to the big man upstairs."

It reminds me of that old joke: "I sent you a boat, I sent you a helicopter..."

WarOnGuns regulars will recall this card, available as a free download to serve your boycotting needs...

A Thousand Words

Photo posted on John Lott's Website, via W. Clark Aposhian of the Utah Shooting Sports Council

Dang--he beat me to it :)

[Via Eric]

We're the Only Ones Open Enough

Question: What do the local "Only Ones" REALLY think about fellow citizens/law abiding gun owners?

At least in Manassas Virginia.

Sailor Curt provides the answer. Apparently some friends went to a pizza place, and since it serves beer, they switched from concealed carry to open, as required by law. A patron got his knickers in a wad and called 911, and "The Only Ones" proceeded to harass "The Tony's 7" as only 'The Only Ones" can.

My favorite part of the first-hand account:

Once outside, one of our party had a copy of the ABC letter explaining the legality of open carry and a copy of the VA State Police web page[Emphasis added--DC]. When approached, one of the group of officers said, "don't come over here and fight us" and that he "didn't need to see our damn letters". His supervisor, wasn't interested in talking either.

This Day in History: February 16

On this day in 1778, two future presidents of the United States, John Adams and his son, 10-year-old John Quincy Adams, sit in Marblehead Harbor, off the coast of Massachusetts, on board the frigate, Boston, which is to take them to France, where John Adams will replace Silas Deane in Congress’ commission to negotiate a treaty of alliance.

Back to the Future

"Requiring notification of lost and stolen firearms is the single most effective way to prevent those who are not legally allowed to own a gun from obtaining one," Levine said.

But Lloyd, wait, if the gun has already been stolen, how does that prevent the person who took it from obtaining it?

It looks like Lloyd's prototype time travel field is only effective for 5 days, but I'm sure the staff of highly trained temporal technicians at the CA State Assembly will break through that paradox barrier soon--then maybe we can start requiring gun owners to report thefts before they happen!

Oh, and here's the kicker--you realize, of course, this only applies to "law abiding" gun owners. Criminals, who possess their guns "illegally", can't be compelled to report if their guns are lost or stolen, because that would violate their Fifth Amendment right against self- incrimination. That is, unless we can send Lloyd back to before the Bill of Rights was drafted to cause a few small time rift changes...maybe we could get him to strangle the infant James Madison in his crib...

Gary's Not Comfortable

"I'm not comfortable arming our entire country for protection - that's a paranoid notion," said Gary Sackett, a Gun Violence Prevention Center board member.

"You can't protect against every madman with a firearm or a hand grenade. That sort of thing is going to happen from time to time."

And you'd just let it happen and wouldn't even try to stop it, right, Gary? Better to label men and women who aren't useless cowards as "paranoid." That way, you won't stick out so pathetically.

The Punishment Fits the Crime

An 8-year-old boy has been charged with two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon after he allegedly threatened fellow students at Frank Silvia School Tuesday with what turned out to be a toy gun, the police said.

I guess spanking him and making him apologize and do extra chores for a week would have been too simple.

It probably would have been. These days, there's a great chance he comes from a home with no dad, and he's probably been on Ritalin for several years by now because, being tax slaves, who has the time to give kids the intensive attention that they need...? Besides--isn't that the school's job?

We're the Only Ones for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Croatia

The perpetrator used the policewoman’s inattention (of Imotski origin) and stole her official 7.65 caliber CZ gun, with ammunition, her belt, gun case and the leather baton holder, Split-Dalmatia police says.

Jagshemash. "Only Ones" is same everywhere. Like Gypsies.

Holy Lockdown, Batman!

Three schools in the north Phoenix suburb of Cave Creek were on lockdown for about 45 minutes Wednesday morning after a student at Desert Arroyo Middle School reported seeing a person dressed as Batman run across campus, jump a fence and disappear into the desert...

That's all it seems to take these in these days of Lite Brite Terror.

Some certainly seem to be doing their utmost to condition their charges into fearing everything.

One Gun Per Month

The Liberty Belles has more on the latest Stalinist hate crime proposed by Comrade Quigley.

This Day in History: February 15

From Halifax, Canada, on this day in 1776, Governor Francis Legge reports to British headquarters in London that traitorous elements in Cumberland, Nova Scotia, have contacted American General George Washington. Washington received a letter from the Nova Scotians, in which they expressed their sympathy for the American cause, on February 8. They invited General Washington and the Continental Army to invade Nova Scotia at his earliest possible convenience.

One man's traitor is another man's patriot. My favorite line from Errol Flynn's "Robin Hood" is when someone (Basil Rathbone as Guy of Gisbourne, as I recall) shouts "You speak treason!" and he responds "Fluently."

If the choice is supporting unalienable rights or tyrant rulers, I'll side with the "traitors" every time.

L.A. City Council To OK Gun Warning Signs

L.A. City Councilman Bernard Parks says he wants to put signs up at gun stores to remind people guns are dangerous.

He also wants to put the language into "contracts", presumably the bill of sale.

I sent him this email to get specifics and will post any reply:

Can you please email me the text of the proposed ordinance requiring gun stores to post a sign?

When will the first reading be?

This is like the forced confessions of times gone by (Admit that you're a witch!), administered by one-sided politically-driven consensus. Naturally unmentioned are DGUs where no one is shot or killed, or the fact that cops have significantly higher suicide rates than the general public--will they receive the same warning notice with their department-issued weapons? And it's not like we haven't seen "The Only Ones" have their share of "accidents," intentional and otherwise.

We all realize, of course, that there is no rationality to this action, other than to commit another official hate crime against gun dealers and gun owners, and the fact that we by and large represent a demographic politically on the other side of the spectrum from Parks and his Council co-conspirators plays no small part in this. Milosevich committed "ethnic cleansing" and the world condemned him for it. These anti-freedom bigots commit ideological cleansing--every bit as dangerous when carried to its ultimate potential--and they're applauded for it.

We'll see if the gun stores fight this--I know I sure would--not only because no group of men should have the power to force you to endorse a political ideology, but also, practically, because such warnings would be tantamount to an admission of guilt in a lawsuit where one of the criteria is respondents "knew or should have known" about potential dangers. To comply with this would be to enter a suicide compact. Under compulsion.

Parks, of course, is the former Chief of LAPD. If he had the first clue as to how to reduce crime and violence, he'd still have the job. Fact is, this incompetent has continually done just the opposite, and made a career for himself disarming peaceable citizens who live in the most dangerous neighborhoods.

I'd like to share a telling email exchange I had about 5 years back with LAPD:

DC: Chief Parks has been a vocal opponent of citizen concealed weapons carry reform. After he leaves the department, will he retain authorization to carry concealed or will he be prohibited from doing so just like ordinary citizens? I would like an official statement so that I can pass it along to other citizens concerned with this issue.

LAPD: Thank you for writing to the Los Angeles Police Department, www.lapdonline.org. For more information on your request, please contact the Los Angeles Police Commission at 213-485-3235.

DC:Actually, I would prefer to have a statement in writing. Why won't you answer a simple question?

LAPD: Police officers in the state of California by state law are authorized to carry concealed weapons after they retire unless otherwise restricted or prohibited. However, for an official statement you will need to contact the Los Angeles Police Commission.

The guy's a tyrant and a hypocrite. Big surprise.

Call Me a Doctor

SayUncle links to a clip that nicely illustrates the deception employed and relied on by the Bradys. I wonder how many TV-hypnotized subjects will look at the white lab coat and automatically attribute authority to the human stage prop wearing it?

What's Another Word for "Joan M. Quigley"?

New Jersey could become the nation's fifth state and the first in nine years to make it illegal for people to buy more than one handgun a month.

Assemblywoman Joan M. Quigley, a Democrat and sponsor of the legislation, represents Jersey City, which like other cities in the state has struggled against street gangs and gun violence. "I personally can see no reason why anyone would want to go out and buy guns in multiples," she said.

And you're willing to impose your personal belief system on everyone else under force of "law," meaning you'll have your agents destroy their lives if they don't bend to your will.

Tell me, Joan, exactly how would you define the word "tyrant"?

Well, lookee here:

On June 8, 2006, Quigley and Assemblywoman Linda Stender proposed banning the sale of Ann Coulter's book Godless: The Church of Liberalism in New Jersey. They issued a joint press release, calling on "..New Jersey retailers to ban the sale of her book throughout the state."

A few days after Quigley and Stender's press release was issued, it was edited on the New Jersey Assembly Democratic Majority website. The word "ban" was replaced with the word "boycott" in two instances (in the title and in the third paragraph)...The original text of the press release can viewed on several websites.

Revising history is an old Stalinist trick, which is about as good a description for Comrade Joan as I can come up with.

I guess when you don't have a Second Amendment, there's really no need for a First. Or any of the others...

Canadian Inmates Running Asylum, Eh?

Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day says changes to Canada's gun laws could include a system to give those close to a gun owner a channel to express concerns about that person's mental health...

He referred to the case of a Quebec psychologist who killed his wife and two daughters last fall.

So guys like Dr. Nutzoid here will be the arbiters of whether or not other Canadians should have a gun...?

All for One and None for All...

I got the following reply from Chief Ken Swindle about a news report that his department donated $1,000 to the All for One Tuscaloosa "gun buyback":

We agreed to help pay for weapons if they bought more than the $500.00 that they had to purchase guns. They only bought nine so we did not give them any money. There was no money given so that answers you next two questions.

The money that I had offered to use was donated to the Department to be use in a safe neighborhood project. It was not affiliated with any Federal program.

So the "report" from the "authorized journalist" was factually in error. Funny how he couldn't be bothered to dig any deeper into his own story.

This Day in History: February 14

A Patriot militia force of 340 led by Colonel Andrew Pickens of South Carolina with Colonel John Dooly and Lieutenant Colonel Elijah Clarke of Georgia defeats a larger force of 700 Loyalist militia commanded by Colonel James Boyd on this day in 1779 at Kettle Creek, Georgia.

Brace Yourselves

Gunman Kills Five People at Trolley Square

Police Identify 3 Navy Yard Victims

The Blood Dancers will soon be out in force. And you can bet they won't be encouraging more people to be able to protect themselves and their loved ones from the monsters among us.

Paula Murray, UK "Journalist"

A GUN NUT who kept more than 2000 dum-dum bullets at his home was jailed for two years yesterday.

Nothing like a little unbiased objectivity, eh, Paula?

At least they're more open about their prejudices than our domestic "authorized journalists," who, for the most part, still rely on weasel-wording, manipulation and selective omissions to deceive, rather than outright pejoratives, although that is changing.

What else do we expect from government dependency nuts?

Unintended Marketplace Consequences

A recent review of records maintained by the federal gun registry in Canada shows that ownership of the Beretta CX4 Storm has gone up close to 300% since last September, when images of the gun were everywhere after a man went on a shooting spree.

Yet the politicians and "authorized journalists" ignored real world people voting by their actions, and focused instead on demands by the dependent, the shrill and the ignorant, and those who exploit them, to eliminate guns.

We're Not Quite the Only Ones

A former Glendale utilities commissioner and one-time boyfriend of a Burbank councilwoman has been sentenced to jail time for giving guns to a gang member in return for cocaine.

But we sure as hell act like we are...

[More from "The Only Ones" files...]

[Via JR]

The Case of the Vanishing Comments

Straightarrow tells me The Morning News has been deleting comments from their latest Wayne Fincher article. I note that one he was concerned about has been reposted by its author, so we'll see if it stays up this time.

If this has happened to you, please feel free to post what you said here, but also contact the paper and give 'em hell.

We're the Only...

But I'll let JR tell it...

[More from "The Only Ones" files...]

We're the Only Ones Losing It Enough

The FBI said that 160 laptop computers were lost or stolen in less than four years, including at least 10 that contained sensitive or classified information -- one of which held "personal identifying information on FBI personnel," according to a report released yesterday.

The bureau, which has struggled for years to improve its sloppy inventory procedures, also reported the same number of missing weapons -- 160 -- from February 2002 to September 2005. Those weapons included shotguns and submachine guns, according to the report by Justice Department Inspector General Glenn A. Fine.

We're not just "The Only Ones"--we're FEDERAL Only Ones, representatives of a JustUs Department that's in charge of the administration's efforts to keep guns off the streets and to safeguard "homeland security" on the domestic front. That they've achieved the exact opposite in each of these cases and actually expanded vulnerabilities seems to not be part of the discussion.

I can't believe this is due merely to "sloppy inventory procedures." I can't believe somebody's not making a buck.

Questions: Whose heads have rolled? No one's? Why not?

[Via Powdersdry]

This Day in History: February 13

On this day in 1776, Patrick Henry becomes colonel of the First Virginia battalion in defense of the state’s supply of gunpowder.

"No Effect on Hunting"

Rudy Giuliani addressed a potentially troublesome issue with conservative voters, saying his policies as mayor to get handguns off the street helped reduce crime in New York...

He said what he did as mayor would have no effect on hunting.

I'd argue that his enforcement of anti-defense fanaticism is directly responsible for Gothamites being killed. His ready reliance on the Brady deception about hunting should be all the proof we need that this fascist is a liar and a tyrant who deserves to be repelled.

The Greater Implication

The Best Western on Route 1 was robbed Thursday night by a man implying he had a weapon wrapped in a gray sweatshirt, county police said.

I infer a much deeper general implication about what our culture has degenerated into from this.

"All I Know"

In yesterday's post, I wrote that I could not find All for One Tuscaloosa through any of the resources I use to find nonprofit organizations, and wondered if "public" moneys were being donated to religious organizations, something the left always frowns on when the values being promoted are traditional.

I wrote to the Tuscaloosa PD and to the "authorized journalist" who filed the story. So far, I've received back this reply from the reporter:

What was in the story is all I know about the transaction between the Police department and All for One Tuscaloosa. You would have to speak with Chief Swindle to get the details you're looking for.

My response:

Thing is, Mr. Smith, you're a reporter.

You honestly don't see a potential story in this, and don't have the means to dig for it?

Naturally I'll post any further developments.

UPDATE:

Mr. Codrea,

The email address to which you sent your message is for comments/suggestions concerning the Tuscaloosa Police Department's website, not for comments/complaints/questions concerning the Department itself.

I have forwarded your message to Chief Swindle.

Thanks,
TPD Webmaster

"Unlawful Possession"

He is charged with unlawful possession of a gun after shooting a machete wielding man attempting to burgle his shop in February last year.

This is wrong on so many levels--any government that would outlaw self defense deserves to be overthrown--with guns and machetes if need be.

We're the Only Ones Recruited Enough

A Las Vegas police recruit was gunned down and killed in a shootout with police officers Friday night after witnesses saw him throwing Mototov cocktails into the street and firing his handgun into the air.

He wanted to be a Vegas "Only One" and he behaved like this. What are the odds?

[Via joefm]

This Day in History: February 12

On this day in 1789, Vermont Patriot Ethan Allen dies of a stroke at age 52 on his Winooski River homestead.

We're the Only Ones With a Beef Enough

An undercover police officer had been shot, and police were hunting for the suspect's vehicle. They soon found it - with another officer behind the wheel, police said...

The driver leaned across the body of a male passenger, shouted "You got a beef?" and fired a shot at Suarez, who was driving the unmarked police car

Reminds me of DeNiro's line in "Taxi Driver": "You talkin' to me?"

Bloomberg's finest. Meanwhile, he's out there inventing ways to blame gun dealers.

[More from "The Only Ones" files...]

[Via Declan]

Kathryn Johnston Update

A plan by the district attorney to seek murder charges against three narcotics officers involved in the shooting death of an elderly woman during a bungled drug raid may jeopardize a broad, federal investigation into civil rights violations by the Atlanta Police Department, a spokesman for the victim’s family said Thursday...

“These officers did not commit felony murder,” he said. “They committed a violation of civil rights that led to her death.”

Mr. Hutchins said both he and Ms. Dozier believed strongly that the civil rights division of the federal Department of Justice should be the prosecuting agency. That way, the legal consequences might apply to the entire Atlanta Police Department, not simply to the three officers.

I'm sorry, but I don't get it.

Of course there should be a murder prosecution, and the people directly responsible should be the ones on the hook for it.

If the family wants to pursue civil, that is, monetary penalties against the department for bad policies and training, that's also an option open to them.

And there's nothing that I can see in this that precludes federal civil rights actions on top of that, as a different set of laws would be applied.

I thought maybe the concern was that the murder charges were for show, to mollify "the community" when the "authorities" know they won't stick--but it seems to me that an acquittal would produce renewed outrage and a whole 'nother set of problems.

Tell me if I'm missing something, because right now, I'm questioning whether the "survivors" of the childless victim are after justice based on personal accountability or deep pockets.

[Via Tom, who credits The Agitator]

New WarOnGuns Poll: What Would YOU Do?

See the left margin for the new poll. This is a follow-up to the previous poll, again proposed by WoG regular Straightarrow:

Here are the results of last week's poll:

We're the Only Ones Honked Off Enough

Jones was in her car behind the police vehicle when she honked her horn and pulled into her driveway.

Police, spooked by the horn, parked and questioned Jones, leading to a scuffle after they threatened to write her a ticket. The stun gun of one of the officers discharged, according to testimony.

All by its own self, no doubt.

How dare she expect "The Only Ones" to observe the rules the rest of us must obey!

All for Nine Tuscaloosa

Gun buyback nets 9 weapons...

Five of them came from one cause-and-effect challenged supporter who thinks turning in his guns will get rid of illegal ones.

Nine guns. But the "buyback" wasn't a failure.

"This whole disarmament thing wasn’t to really buy guns back," Muhammad said. “It was about having young men come together to settle their differences instead of shooting at each other from their car windows."

They never meant to do what they said they were trying to do. They actually wanted to do something else, and that's how their success should be measured. OK, then. So did you get young men to settle their differences without shooting at each other from their car windows? How many? Nine?

All for One Tuscaloosa offered $25 for each gun that was turned in.

OK, I'm doing the math here. Times nine, that's $225. So what the...?

[Police Chief Ken] Swindle said he appreciates such efforts to solve problems that the police department deals with daily. To demonstrate support for Saturday’s event, the department contributed $1,000 from its Safe Neighborhoods campaign to help All for One Tuscaloosa pay for the guns they collected.

Hey, way to make effective use of resources, Chief Swindler...uh...Swindle. But then again, it's not your money, is it?

Still, this wasn't a total failure. Based on results, the "authorized journalists" considered the event newsworthy.

UPDATE:

I have some resources I use to verify nonprofit status of organizations, and curiously, "All for One Tuscaloosa" yields no results on any of them. So I have to wonder just who the Chief gave the thousand bucks to.

If it was the Southern Christian Leadership Conference or the Nation of Islam study group, wouldn't that be a violation of the prohibition against "respecting an establishment of religion" that the ACLU is soiling their red diapers over any time some village wants to put a donated manger in front of City Hall at Christmas? And if it came from the "Safe Neighborhoods" fund, does that mean federal plunder was involved?

This Day in History: February 11

On this day in 1776, Georgia’s royal governor, Sir James Wright, escapes from his residence in Savannah to the safety of a waiting British warship, the HMS Scarborough, anchored at the mouth of the Savannah River, and returns to London. Governor Wright had been taken into custody and placed under house arrest nearly a month earlier on January 18, 1776, by Patriots under the command of Major Joseph Habersham of the Provincial Congress.

The Chicom Bill of Rights

China has executed a Muslim activist for attempting “to split the motherland” and possessing firearms and explosives.

So who do I root for here?

Judge Won't Throw Out Verdict in Machine Gun Case

A federal judge has rejected Hollis Wayne Fincher's motion to set aside his conviction for illegal firearms, including three machine guns.

I posted on this earlier today before doing my news search.

What's On YOUR Mind?

A team of world-leading neuroscientists has developed a powerful technique that allows them to look deep inside a person's brain and read their intentions before they act.

The research breaks controversial new ground in scientists' ability to probe people's minds and eavesdrop on their thoughts, and raises serious ethical issues over how brain-reading technology may be used in the future.

Ooh, ooh-- I know how, I know how!

First, we scan all gun owners, both before we issue them a license, and maybe every year thereafter, just to make sure they're still "safe" (although why anyone would want a gun probably makes them suspect and disqualifies them in the first place, wouldn't you think?.

Then, when the technology matures and the hardware interface can be designed, we require everyone to wear an intention device so that we can stop trouble before it happens. We'll be able to make them small and unobtrusive enough by then--maybe even code the circuitry into the same forehead markings they'll be using to identify themselves and conduct business, social and political transactions.

Who could possibly be against this--except someone with something to hide?

[Via Stieger]

Wayne Fincher Update: February 10

[T]he Court finds defendant’s Motion for Arrest of Judgment (Doc. 37) to be without merit. The motion is, therefore, DENIED.

Judge Jimm Larry Hendren continues to carve a name for himself in the annals of American jurisprudence, one that we can only pray will be damned by our descendants.

Also, per Paul W. Davis:

I have updated the BATFE Raid page with the Governor Huckabee's response to the US Attorney's request for information concerning the Militia of Washington County, Arkansas, and scanned in copies of Certified Mail receipts from the Governor's office.

Additionally, I have added Judge Jimm Hendren's preliminary Jury Instructions. The current PDF file is generated from the scanned in sheets and is not text searchable. I will add two more versions of this document - a text generated PDF file and a Wordperfect file.

http://www.arkansasmilitia.com/raid/main.html

http://www.arkansasmilitia.com/raid/FincherDocket.html

[More about Wayne Fincher via WarOnGuns]

The Chaser's War on Democracy

Yeah, the guy doing the interview is a liberal Aussie, and there's no telling how many people he talked to before finding the ones he used in this segment. There's also no telling how poorlyhis countrymen would fare with similar questioning, but this is still a frightening statement on the American electorate.

These people all have opinions they believe in, however ill-informed those may be. That means if you asked them questions about "gun control," you could expect more ignorance.

Government's media partners know this. They employ catch and release tactics, hitting their target audience with emotional appeals and sound bites that will penetrate and register before their viewers' attention span is over and their focus wanders elsewhere.

And their votes can cancel out yours, and determine which rights government will feel emboldened to restrict.

[Via Stieger]

This Day in History: February 10

On this day in 1779, a force of more than 340 men from the South Carolina and Georgia militias, led by Colonel Andrew Pickens of South Carolina with Colonel John Dooly and Lieutenant Colonel Elijah Clarke of Georgia, attack a group of approximately 200 Loyalists under the command of Colonel John Hamilton at Robert Carr’s Fort, in Wilkes County, Georgia.