Guest Editorial--Hoplophobia: "Crazy Is As Crazy Does."

FOREWORD: The response to Mike Vanderboegh's last guest piece was remarkable. The guy can really write. At the risk of putting myself out of business by showcasing more of his work, he's generously allowing me to post this new essay, and tells me another is on the way!

Hoplophobia: "Crazy Is As Crazy Does."

Mike Vanderboegh

I have long believed that the country I grew up in has in fact become two countries. These two countries, both of whom claim to be the United States of America, are divided along the fault lines of respect for life (abortion), liberty (taxes and guns), morality (Hollywood ethics and gay marriage) and even truth (”the meaning of is”). Reflecting this dichotomy is the language that each side uses to describe the other. Liberals are especially adept at using terminology to demonize their opponents: "religious fanatics" and "gun nuts" to name just two. I have been called both of these pejoratives countless times over the years, and yet I always resisted calling gun control advocates anything other than foolish or misdirected. I really do despise ad hominem attacks, having been on the receiving end of quite a few. So I never questioned a gun grabber's mental state with name-calling until recently, when I realized that nothing else quite described their behavior like "hoplophobe."

"Hoplophobia" comes from from the Greek hoplon, or weapon, and is a term coined by the great Colonel Jeff Cooper in 1962. As described in Wikipedia:

"(Cooper's) intent was to satirically use a clinical term to bring public recognition of the irrational fear of firearms and other forms of weaponry such as knives or explosives. He stated that 'the most common manifestation of hoplophobia is the idea that instruments possess a will of their own, apart from that of their user'. Hoplophobia is deemed to be a cultural side effect of those who engage in the primordial human belief systems that anthropologists refer to as 'animism', or the belief that inanimate objects can hold spirits that can affect human actions."

How else, other than hoplophobia, can you explain this recent Washington Times story by Valerie Richardson out of Littleton, Colorado with the headline "Community at odds over fallen hero's statue"?

"A planned statue depicting a local hero, a Navy SEAL killed in Afghanistan, has drawn opposition from some parents, who say the image and location are inappropriate for children. A bronze sculpture of Petty Officer 2nd Class Danny Dietz Jr. showing him cradling his rifle across his chest is scheduled to be unveiled July 4 at Berry Park here, where he grew up and attended school. The statue was modeled after a photo of the young serviceman.. . .Petty Officer Dietz, 25, was awarded the Navy Cross, the service's second-highest award for valor after the Medal of Honor, for fighting off an ambush by insurgents in Afghanistan despite being mortally wounded. His actions were credited with helping a fellow Navy SEAL escape."

Seems straightforward, right? A hometown hero has a statue erected in his memory so that his sacrifice will not be forgotten by those he made it for. Ah, but enter the hoplophobes:

"But a group of parents wants the city to recast the statue or place it elsewhere, arguing that the site, near three elementary schools and two parks, is a hub for young children who could find the weapon disturbing."

Disturbing? DISTURBING?

"'While our hearts go out to the family of this brave young man, we have serious concerns regarding the graphic and violent detail the statue portrays,' stated a flier distributed recently in a nearby neighborhood. 'As a community, we cannot allow the many young children in this area to be exposed to a larger than life-size grenade-launching machine gun,' the flier stated."

Of course, the story continues,

"members of Petty Officer Dietz's family and others have defended the memorial, saying there's a clear distinction between a rifle used in combat to defend the United States and a firearm used in other contexts. But critics have said the image of an automatic rifle is particularly inappropriate given the memorial's proximity to Columbine High School. The high school, located a few miles from the park, was the site of the 1999 massacre in which two suicidal teenage gunmen killed 12 students and a teacher. 'In light of our community's experience with the Columbine tragedy, and the clear message of nonviolence that we teach in Littleton schools, what is our city thinking?' the flier stated."

The real question is "What are these morons smoking"? But of course it is not marijuana, it is merely the latest manifestation of hoplophobia. If I may paraphrase that famous Alabama philosopher, Mrs. Gump: "Crazy is as crazy does." What shall we do now, sanitize all the statues to our war dead? Shall we redo the Minuteman statue, replacing his musket with a pitchfork? Are you sure that's not too violent a substitute? I mean, pitchforks can kill folks too. How about an Iwo Jima memorial without M1 rifles? You know, sort of like the amiable Marines just hopped a tourist liner to visit Japanese territory and then decided to raise an American flag while the hospitable Imperial Army looked on in smiling approval. While were at it, we can reshape their helmets into construction site hardhats so as to make the whole thing less militaristic. And why don't we spruce up all those Civil War memorials by removing their muskets and replacing them with bouquets of daisies?

To my mind, objecting to a sculpture of a hero which includes the weapon he used in defense of his country just because two pimple-faced neoNazi wannabes who couldn't get dates used weapons (albeit entirely different in type and capability) to carry out a massacre in the "no guns allowed" criminal free fire zone of the local high school makes about as much sense as a militant lesbian objecting to the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile driving through a local grocery store's parking lot because it reminds her of a phallus. I mean, are we talking two different countries here, or entire alternate universes?

It's like the friend of mine who lived in California and got tired of all the "War Is NOT the Answer" peacenik bumper stickers he saw on his daily commute. He came up with an alternative sticker of his own which read: "If you think war is not the answer, it's because you don't understand the frigging question."

Dr. Sarah Thompson, in her 2000 article "Raging Against Self Defense: A Psychiatrist Examines The Anti-Gun Mentality", disagrees with Cooper's blanket terminology. Describing an acquaintance who is afraid of his neighbors owning guns because he is afraid they will shoot him, the scrupulously scientific Thompson posits:

"This is an example of what mental health professionals call projection – unconsciously projecting one's own unacceptable feelings onto other people, so that one doesn't have to own them. In some cases, the intolerable feelings are projected not onto a person, but onto an inanimate object, such as a gun, so that the projector believes the gun itself will murder him. Projection is a defense mechanism. Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological mechanisms that protect us from feelings that we cannot consciously accept. They operate without our awareness, so that we don't have to deal consciously with 'forbidden' feelings and impulses. Thus, if you asked my e-mail correspondent if he really wanted to murder his neighbors, he would vehemently deny it, and insist that other people want to kill him. . . "

"Defense mechanisms are also frequently combined, so that an anti-gun person may use several defense mechanisms simultaneously. For example, my unfortunate correspondent uses projection to create a world in which all his neighbors want to murder him. As a result, he becomes more angry and fearful, and needs to employ even more defense mechanisms to cope. So he uses projection to attribute his own rage to others, he uses denial that there is any danger to protect himself from a world where he believes he is helpless and everyone wants to murder him, and he uses reaction formation to try to control everyone else's life because his own is so horribly out of control."

"Also, it's important to remember that not all anti-gun beliefs are the result of defense mechanisms. Some people suffer from gun phobia, an excessive and completely irrational fear of firearms, usually caused by the anti-gun conditioning they've been subjected to by the media, politicians, so-called 'educators,' and others. In some cases, gun phobia is caused by an authentic bad experience associated with a firearm. But with all due respect to Col. Jeff Cooper, who coined the term 'hoplophobia' to describe anti-gun people, most anti-gun people do not have true phobias. Interestingly, a person with a true phobia of guns realizes his fear is excessive or unreasonable, something most anti-gun folks will never admit."

(Dr. Thompson's article can be found in its entirety at: http://www.jpfo.org/ragingagainstselfdefense.htm).

So who's right-- the great Jeff Cooper, Dr. Thompson or both? Even after reading Dr. Thompson's article, I'm not entirely certain. But I do know this for sure: this country and all her people, including the hoplophobic nitwit housewives of Littleton, Colorado, owe their freedom from before the Founding up through today to brave men with scary guns like Petty Officer 2nd Class Danny Dietz Jr.

And I'll tell you something else I know for sure. In the practical, common sense corner of the universe that I inhabit, and in my own modest opinion, regardless of where such loonies get their fear of firearms and whether it's treatable or not, I know this with absolute certainty: THESE PEOPLE ARE NUTS!

Mike Vanderboegh
PO Box 926
Pinson, AL 35126
GeorgeMason1776ATaol.com

We're the Only Ones...ENOUGH Already...

WarOnGuns correspondent Vinnie puts the "cop" into "cornucopia" with a virtual glut of "Only Ones" vignettes. Now we get to see if I can spontaneously come up with suitably corny headlines for this unanticipated barrage:

We're the Only Ones Appraising Enough

A Prince George's County police officer is charged with assault after police say he pulled a gun on a real estate appraiser who came to the officer's house by mistake.

We're the Only Ones "America's Bloodiest Home Videos" Enough

"The one cop came punched me in my mouth then they threw me on the floor. After they were done smashing the camera then they hit me with the night stick," Rodriguez said.

We're the Only Ones Putting Out the Hits Enough

A Suffolk county jury has convicted a 22-year-old New York police academy recruit of conspiracy to commit murder for trying to hire a hit man to kill his girlfriend.

We're the Only Ones Anxious to Get on With Our Lives and Work Enough

A municipal court judge charged with pointing a pistol at two others has been sentenced to probation after pleading guilty to a lesser charge.

We're the Only Ones Dealing Enough

A Wallace police officer was jailed on drug charges after an investigation that began last summer, authorities said.

We're the Only Ones Who Keep Going and Going Enough

A Chicago police officer has been charged with domestic battery and stripped of her police powers, officials said.

We're the Only Ones Discharging Enough

She is charged with one count of discharging a firearm in an occupied building, a four-year felony, one count of felonious assault, a four-year felony, and felony firearms, a two-year felony.

We're the Only Ones Dipping Into the Spa Enough

Another New Orleans police officer charged in a robbery at the Bangkok Spa has pleaded guilty.

We're the Only Ones Walking the Walk Enough

35-year-old Paul Cetinski told a judge he was tasered repeatedly, without warning, after allegedly jay-walking in the downtown area.

We're the Only Ones Overlapping Enough

A Cuyahoga County grand jury today indicted a Cleveland police officer on a charge of theft in office based on allegations he collected on-duty pay while working off-duty as a security guard.

I'm sure glad these people were all considered more trustworthy to bear arms than I am.

I need a drink. And it's not even 6:00 AM. And I don't really drink all that much.

The Shape of Things to Come

We may have seen it all before in science-fiction films. But the bionic warrior is in fact a vision of real-life warfare in the 21st century. U.S. defence chiefs hope to have their troops kitted out in the outlandish combat gear as soon as 2020.

Included in the Pentagon's Future Warrior Concept are a powerful exoskeleton, a self-camouflaging outer layer that adapts to changing environments and a helmet which translates a soldier's voice into any foreign language.

The future soldier will also benefit from 'intelligent' armour, which remains light and flexible until it senses an approaching bullet, then tenses to become bulletproof.

As I've asked before, any bets on whether or not this technology will be withheld from the Citizen Militia? Or will the only authorized "civilian" applications be for dynamic entry SWAT teams?

[Via John Schaefer]

IKEA: Affordable Solutions for a Better Police State

I need the following:

A. Include a request to have as many people as possible call 650 853 3160 and ask to speak to the sergeant on duty. Get as much info as you can about the program and the details.

B. Get people to start calling Ikea in East Palo Alto and find out why they are allowing this to go on.

C. Get this information out to as many other 2A groups as possible.

Many thanks,

Mark Towber
President
Golden State 2nd Amendment Council

Gee, and I was just thinking the other day about how much I needed a pressboard shelving unit that would warp and deform if you put anything on it.

[Via Benjamin S and Gerhard P]

The Oven Control Debate

Households With Ovens vs. Households Without Ovens: What's the big deal, anyway??? Here are the straight facts ...

Jason Kirk gives us an inside look at these appliances of death, which, if flung from a trebuchet, would be capable of bringing down an airliner! There oughtta be a law...

In all seriousness, and I use this factoid when confronted by ninnies who wish to ban fireworks, you're over four times more likely to be injured by your cooking range/oven...

This Day in History: April 10

But now that I am fifteen, my thoughts are quite different and I see my friend Dr. Franklin in a different light. He is no longer just a clever, clever boy who always manages to get his way, but a man who repeatedly rebels against authority when he believes authority is wrong. He rebelled at great risk against his brother James, his master at the time...

But this time, I fear, he is going too far.

I found this fictional "diary" of William Temple Franklin at the Independence Hall Association website.

Red's Under Fire: WarOnGuns Interviews Ryan Horsley

NOTE: INTERVIEW CONDUCTED ON APRIL 9. THREAD NOW CLOSED FROM FURTHER QUESTIONS. YOU CAN ASK 'EM, BUT RYAN WON'T BE AROUND TO ANSWER.

WarOnGuns has been reporting on the ongoing BATFE actions against Red's Trading Post in Twin Falls, ID, since we became aware of this story. I contacted Red's Marketing Director Ryan Horsley and he agreed to answer some questions about his plight, and also provided me with this brief bio to introduce himself to us:

Ryan Horsley is the fourth generation at Red's Trading Post "Idaho's Oldest Gun Shop" which was started in 1936 by his Great Grandfather. Horsley serves as Chairman of the Twin Falls Planning and Zoning Commission, President of the Twin Falls Downtown Business District, Board of Directors for the Twin Falls Chamber of Commerce, Public Relations Chairman for Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve and was appointed to the Selective Service Board by then Idaho Governor and Current Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne. He has brought Red's Trading Post from a local pawn shop to a thriving online specialty firearms store that has increased nearly 600% since Horsley's arrival. Ryan and his wife Miah have 3 small children.

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

DC: Tell me about Red's.

RH: Red's Trading Post was started by my Great Grandfather Lowell "Red" Kinney in 1936. We became at the time one of the biggest gun shops in Idaho for awhile. We are located in the heart of Twin Falls in a 95 year old building. In recent years the majority of our business is online. We specialize in consignments and specialty firearms.

DC: So what happened? And have you had you had these problems before?

RH: We were audited in 2000 and there were some minor errors found, that was when I just took over the role of manager. We were then audited again in 2001 and found in full compliance. In 2005 we were audited again and the agent found minor paperwork errors and other minor items. Yet we were told by the ATF Agent conducting the investigation that we were one of the "best small gun shops he had inspected". I was not worried because these were small items that could be rectified, most of the items that had been brought to our attention were items that other Agents never mentioned to us. He explained that each Agent looks for something different. The inspector went through about 10,000 forms, we have a success rate of 99.6%. Yet the ATF has to prove that these violations are WILLFUL, willful is a word that Reagan and Congress put in the wording to protect dealers but the ATF is now saying that if you were written up on violations in the past and then again...it is willful. I was stunned to say the least when we found that they were going to revoke our license.

DC: Aside from some paperwork glitches, what damage has been done?

RH: There were no missing guns, all of our sales were to legal buyers, there was nothing shady. The most severe violation that the ATF is touting is one in which a local retired Doctor came in to pick up a special order shotgun. My clerk called him in and had him fill out the paperwork. When my clerk turned around he grabbed the paperwork probably assuming that it was his. When it was discovered the ATF agent contacted his widow and verified that it was completed and that it was called in. Yet they have labeled this WILLFUL as well.

DC: What's the current status of your case? Does your lawyer think talking publicly about it could be used against you?

RH: We are currently in the process of seeking and injunction to allow us to acquire firearms. The ATF pulled a different tactic on us and said that through the Federal Court process we could no longer acquire any new firearms, we could only sell off our remaining inventory. I have kept quiet on several things which drives me nuts because I have always been open and upfront on everything. So that is why I try and focus on what is happening to our industry as a whole rather than our own personal case but that tends to turn into the focus sometime. People wonder who this can happen to an honest established dealer located in Idaho which is the most Republican state in the Union where our Senior Senator also sits on the Board of Directors for the NRA. Yet it proves if it can happen to us then it could happen to anyone.

DC: There are those in the gun community commenting on forums who aren't all that sympathetic to your plight-they basically say you had a job to do keeping complete records and your failure to do that brought your troubles on yourself. How do you respond to that?

RH: It is really easy to cast stones, I used to do it. I would hear of some dealer who had their license revoked and would assume that it was something really bad. I saw this happening to the individuals who had FFL's but really did not feel compelled to speak up. Just like the poem:

First they came for the Jews and I did not speak out because I was not a Jew. Then they came for the Communists and I did not speak out because I was not a Communist. Then they came for the trade unionists and I did not speak out because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak out for me. Pastor Martin Niemöller.

We need to stand up for each other, we cannot allow them to tear us apart. There are so many other dealers who are hiding their head because most times in the court of Public Opinion we are found guilty. We need to stand up for one another and come to each others aid and not just throw our fellow dealers to the wolves.

DC: You say the BATFE is shutting down gun dealers, and imply that is part of an agenda. What makes you think that?

RH: Shooting Sports Retailer Magazine just reported that from 2001 to 2006, revocations have gone up nearly 6 times. The VPC reported that "the Number of Gun Dealers in U.S. Drops Almost 80 Percent—From 245,628 to 54,902—Since 1994 till 2005". That is why Congress put together the ATF Reform Act of 2006 which received bipartisan support in the House, but was ultimately held up in the Senate by Dianne Feinstein. Gun Manufacturers, Distributors, the NRA and other organizations are aware of this. Dealers are either having to fight this in Federal Court or if they cannot afford it they just close shop. We are easy targets. The startling fact is that the ATF's funding is increasing, yet FFL dealers are rapidly declining.

DC: Tell us about your petition, and what you hope to accomplish with it. Are you satisfied with the response?

RH: The petition is twofold, it is to educate gun owners to what is happening and it is also to be sent out to Congress. I have had some organizations ask if they can use it as well. I feel the response is OK but could be much better, there are some excellent comments on it.

DC: We reported on the commercials you produced. Are they being shown anywhere besides the Internet? What difference do you expect them to make?

RH: They are on our web site www.redstradingpost.com and are available to anyone to download as well. Some supporters have posted them on YouTube. I think they are a great tool to get Gun Owners attention, I am hoping people will contact their Congressional Delegates and show support to reform the ATF. Gun Dealers are becoming an endangered species.

DC: Does anyone from BATFE seem inclined to give you a break, or does it look like they're intent on destroying Red's? And do you think going public like this will make them more or less inclined to show lenience?

RH: It is all coming from the top, they cannot let you win, they have an unlimited amount of resources and it is a costly fight. When it became clear that they were not going to let up that is when I had to make a decision to go public about this. Honestly what is the worst thing that they can do to me...revoke my license? I have been told by others who have won in court that to expect more attacks. So I have to press on because the only true victory is to reform the ATF or severely cut their budget.

DC: Who in the pro-gun community has stepped forward to help you, either through publicity, with legal aid, etc.?

RH: ATFABUSE.com has been great with being very vocal, hitting the gun forums. JPFO has been wonderful as well and has requested pictures of our store for their upcoming video "The Gang", the NRA posted an ILA report on their website. Several small grass roots organizations have been great but the larger organizations are silent. One which we are a member of has ignored us and will not answer our e-mails. I have had individuals and other dealers step forward to offer funds for our legal defense but I have declined. This issue is not about Red's Trading Post and I do not want people to think that I am doing this for my own personal gain or to receive money, sympathy or empathy. This campaign is for all dealers and for gun owners, to protect our industry.

DC: Have customers, suppliers, and those who know you in the business community come forth with testimonials? Would they be helpful? Are you soliciting them, or do you have plans to?

RH: I have not sought any testimonials but I have asked them to speak out. Where we are in Federal Court, our case is up to the Judge. So it would not do much good at this point. Speaking out for us is a moot point but you can speak out for other dealers and against these attacks.

DC: What is the best outcome you can hope for, and what do you think your chances are of achieving it?

RH: We are confident that we will win this case and recoup attorney fees. But the best outcome is for reform because they will be back if we win or will just set their sights on another dealer. Reform, Cutting their budget or join JPFO's campaign to "Boot the BATFE". We have to be responsible taxpayers as well. If we saw our local Police department spending the majority of their time issuing tickets for littering and jaywalking when there is real crime being committed then we would be outraged. Why are we not outraged when we see the ATF spending the majority of their time going after honest gun dealers for petty violations when there are real criminals out there?

DC: What would you ask of people reading this interview? What do you want them to do?

RH: Stand behind your dealers, Contact your Senators and Congressman, do not let this continue to happen. This is your chance to fight back. Politically we are moving in an uncertain future, we have the ability to turn the tide against what seems to be a barrage of attacks from the new assault weapons ban, Bloomberg straw purchase entrapments, ATF shutting down dealers and so many that are happening at statewide levels. Our guard is down right now and this industry is taking shots left and right. This takes individuals, this takes men and women we have reached a point where we cannot compromise. Get involved and stand up!

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

Now it's time for you to ask questions. Ryan has agreed to check in from time to time today and see what you have posted for him to answer in the "Comments" section, below.

Please follow these very simple ground rules:

Stay on topic.

Keep questions brief and to the point.

Ask a question, don't write an essay.

Politeness, please.

Your willing cooperation with these expectations of conduct will help provide an enjoyable and informative experience for all, and will be appreciated.

UPDATE: Ryan tells me he's been asked to appear on Cam Edwards' program some time today. Hopefully he can give us the details so we can all listen in.

INTERVIEW CONDUCTED ON APRIL 9. THREAD NOW CLOSED FROM FURTHER QUESTIONS. YOU CAN ASK 'EM, BUT RYAN WON'T BE AROUND TO ANSWER.

"Non-Lethal"

The unidentified airman suffered second-degree burns during an evaluation of a non-lethal heat-ray gun this week in South Georgia.

How long would he have to cook before someone admits the potential for lethality?

I saw this device tested on "Future Weapons," a program that shows us all what is withheld from the Citizen Militia by the standing army. Some time back, I wrote "Things to Come," an analysis of weapons developments, for GUNS AND AMMO Magazine, where I concluded:

It's been said that a battle isn't won until a man with a rifle occupies the ground. We must keep in mind that someone probably once said the same thing about spears.

DC Appeals Parker

Attorneys for the D-C government are expected to file an appeal tomorrow against a federal appeals court ruling that overturned the district's strict ban on guns.

Mayor Adrian Fenty has said the city will appeal the decision. Attorneys plan to petition for the case to be reheard by the full U-S Court of Appeals for the D-C Circuit.

This is getting interesting...

Romney "Bogus"?

He'd lie to us about guns to trick "sportsmen" into voting for him?

I'm shocked.

This Day in History: April 9

Sir: I take the Liberty of transmitting you a Copy of a paper, addressed to me by Lieut. Col. Walcot of your Army, which came inclosed in a Letter from Lieut. General Lord Cornwallis. It is with peculiar regret, I am constrained to observe, that this illiberal performance of Col. Walcott, is obviously calculated, to answer a less generous purpose than that of merely effecting an exchange, contains a gross misrepresentation of Facts, and is a palpable deviation from that delicate line, which I expected would mark his conduct, as a Man of Candor and ingenuity.

New WarOnGuns Poll: Does Congressional Action Jeopardize Parker?

The principle lawyer behind the Parker lawsuit contends that recent actions in Congress to overturn Washington DC's gun ban endanger their case, and further speculates that this is a desired outcome for some in the gun rights movement. This week's poll, in the left margin, asks what you think.

Here are the results of last week's poll (click on picture to enlarge):

We're the Only Ones Searching Everyone Enough

Then the cops came. They ordered everyone off the steps and onto the ground. They shouted and pointed guns. They handcuffed some people and searched everyone. A 24-year-old mother had to leave her 8-month-old daughter on the porch.

Two hours later, the residents knew police had been looking for a gun they never found.

And we'd do it again. Because we're "The Only Ones" who are supposed to have guns.

[Via Declan]

If You Have a Story...

If you have a story of self-defense involving the aid of a gun and would like to tell it to 20/20, please fill out the form below. A "20/20" producer may contact you.

Here's MY story:
[Via Bob L]

We're the Only Ones Child-Abandoning Enough

A northeast Baltimore mother said she's angry and frustrated after her 12-year-old child was left alone to sit on a curb while police arrested her father and took him to central booking.

That'll teach him to have his name mistakenly placed on an arrest warrant!

[Via Tavis]

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

This Day in History: April 8

Let me beseech you to use every possible means to collect your men together, and not suffer some to be in one place, some in another; and let me also entreat you, to charge your Recruiting Officers in explicit, and positive terms to be exceedingly attentive to that duty, as idleness and dissipation will not meet with the smallest countenance. Your other officers are to attend the Regiment closely and not suffer'd under various excuses, to be idling their time away in Philadelphia or elsewhere.

No New Posts Until Sunday Night

I'll get to emails then, too, so please be patient if you don't get an immediate reply.

Everyone have a blessed Easter. If you must be on the Internet, feel free to browse around here for archived stuff you might have missed, or head on over to the left margin and go explore one of the many fine sites on my primary blogroll.

Guest Editorial: You Can't Repeal the Law of Unintended Consequences

FOREWORD: I first came across Mike Vanderboegh's work several years back when someone emailed me a copy of his inspiring speculative essay "The Window War." The guy is a compelling writer, one who puts out the kind of stuff you just want to keep reading.

So I was quite pleased the other day when a friend sent me Mr. Vanderboegh's latest effort, a brilliant and dead on target rebuttal to Benjamin Wittes, a Brookings Institution "scholar" and author of a subversive call to "Ditch the Second Amendment".

Mr. Vanderboegh has graciously given permission to post it here at WarOnGuns. Enjoy it--I know I sure did.

You Can't Repeal the Law of Unintended Consequences
Mike Vanderboegh

Dear Ben,

I want to say how refreshing your New Republic article of 19 March was for its intellectual honesty. After three decades of my arguing the originalist position of the 2nd Amendment with every sort of hoplophobe known to mankind, your collectivist "by any means necessary" proposal strips the self-deception and cant away from the anti-gun position. Still, even if you are successful in advancing it, your proposal will come apart in the real world when it smacks into the one law that cannot be repealed: the Law of Unintended Consequences.

Some years back, I was the designated "gun-nut goat" on a public forum panel discussing "gun violence." It was held in Birmingham, Alabama at Children's Hospital. As I was placing pro-2nd Amendment literature on the seats before the event, a child psychiatrist (so identified by the name badge on his white coat) came up to me, looked at the leaflets and said, with a smile and with what he mistook to be bravery, "You know, I think ALL guns should be banned."

I smiled back and replied, "Really? Do you own a gun?"

He was taken aback. "Well, NO," he said, with all the fear and loathing of Dracula confronted by a Crucifix with wolf's bane garlands.

"Well, how do you propose to get mine then?"

He paused, then said, "Well, we'll pass a law and you'll have to turn them in to the government."

I laughed. "Wrong, sport. Let me tell you how that would work. If you want my gun, you're going to have to kill me to get it. Not only that, but you're going to have to kill my son, my brother and all our friends. And if even ten percent of American gunowners feel the way we do, you're going to have to kill upwards of eight and a half million people, and that doesn't count all the anti-freedom pukes like you that we'll kill in righteous self-defense before we meet our Maker, and we intend to make that MORE than a one to one ratio. So you've got to ask yourself, sport: Is it worth it?"

I was still smiling, he wasn't. "Wuh, wuh, well," he stammered, "you're PARANOID."

I laughed again. "OK," I said agreeably, "let's admit that you're the expert in that field and say that you're right. Let's say I am paranoid." And here, I opened my eyes wide, began to edge forward and dropped my voice an octave so the next words came out most sinisterly. "Let's say I'm crazy."

He involuntarily backed up. I winked at him and finished, "That just complicates your problem, doesn't it?" He was so plainly frightened that I busted out laughing and ruined the effect. He was in full reverse gear when I called after him.

"Just do me one favor, sport. If you want my gun, you come get it. Don't send someone else's son or daughter in federal service. YOU come get it." I winked at him again. "And, hey, I might even give it to you after I unload it."

It turned out that he also was on the panel. He waited until I took a seat and then found a chair as far away from me as he could get.

I have found over the years that modern day so-called liberals (who bear little resemblance intellectually to their claimed classical liberal ancestors) lack the courage of their convictions. There is no principle so dear that they are willing to personally suffer for, let alone die for. Government, blessed government, is their idol. If they are aggrieved, oppressed, or merely imagine that they are oppressed, it is to government that they turn. There hasn't been a liberal willing to die for his principles since the Civil Rights movement. They are more than willing to dispatch the men and women of government to die in their place, however. But, and I think this is more dangerous to the country, they also extrapolate from their own cowardice and believe that all people (even those who disagree with them) will, in the end, do what they're told by Government.

I have no doubt, Ben, that you have been inundated with all manner of disputatious email, some likely obscene and/or incoherent with anger. The passion this issue excites is understandable, touching as it does upon the bedrock of the Founder's Republic and the future of our children's liberty. But beyond the sneering and the anger, no matter how contemptible and silly it may seem to you, these people, MY people, the people who believe in the Founder's Republic and the plain language of the Constitution, ARE willing to die for their principles. And a man who is willing to die for his country is most often willing to kill for it too.

This was the lesson of the Deacons for Defense and Justice in the 60s and 70s. The Klan (and the local and state governments controlled by them) had no problem intimidating and killing black folks who practiced "non-violence" until those non-violent protesters were protected by the guns of the Deacons. In addition, the federal government did not get actively involved in insisting that the civil rights laws be enforced until the prospect of civil war loomed as black men, veterans mostly, began to arm themselves and train under the rubric of the Deacons for Defense and Justice.

You know, government isn't guaranteed to always be on your side, Ben. Even so-called "liberals" have need of firearms. Absent firearms, and the will to use them, you're all just fodder for the next boxcars which convey you to a place with a sign that says "Arbeit Macht Frei."

But I am not angry with you. As I said, I appreciate your candor. But you must understand that the Law of Unintended Consequences cannot be repealed. And you can be tried, convicted and sentenced by it, both in real time and in the judgment of history. By once again reminding gunnies of the threat your beliefs pose to their liberties, you have no doubt motivated more than a few of them to go out and buy more guns and ammunition. Do you suppose that they are doing this in anticipation of turning them in when you're successful in repealing the 2nd Amendment? A recent history lesson is appropriate here.

From the time the so-called "Assault Weapons Ban" was first proposed until it went into effect, something like 6 million semi-automatic rifles of military type (mostly SKS's and AK-47 clones) were imported into this country and sold. With them came billions upon billions of rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition. That was more rifles of those types than had been sold in the previous twenty years! This was in defiance of the intent of the ban. It was in full expectation that the next law was to be one of confiscation. The Law of Unintended Consequences was in full swing then, and finally even the Clintonistas recognized that these millions of rifles and billions of rounds of ammunition were not being purchased to turn in to them, but to turn ON them if they became just a little more grasping.

So, I say with all seriousness, yet happily: Be careful what you wish for, Ben. You may get it. The Law of Unintended Consequences guarantees it.

Mike Vanderboegh
PO Box 926
Pinson, AL 31526
GeorgeMason1776ATaol.com

We're the Only Ones Shakespearean Enough

According to a complaint filed March 23, Aruajo allegedly threatened Lockney resident Meagan Rae Stapp over the phone while “acting under the color” of her JP office. In sketchy reports, she told Stapp that she could “put Stapp away” and had the power to “do anything she wanted to do.”

Legal woes mount for a black-robed "Only One."

What is it about guys named "Romeo" that gets women all "happy daggerish"?

Coming Monday: The "Red's Under Fire" Interview

Mark you calendars for next Monday. Ryan Horsley, Marketing Director for Red's Trading Post, will spend some time here at WarOnGuns for another of one of our interviews, along the lines of ones we conducted with Matt Bracken and David Hardy.

In case you're wondering why I'm using the Royal "We," it's because I won't be alone (again). As per WoG interview protocol, Ryan will be checking in periodically throughout the day to answer your questions.

We're the Only Ones Scalping Enough

Eight city police officers who used World Series tickets seized from scalpers were suspended without pay for 14 days and may lose up to $20,000 each in wages from reduced rank, Chief Joe Mokwa announced this afternoon.

He said what they did was "intolerable" but added that they are "not thieves" and "can be redeemed."

No, of course they're not, Chief. They're "Only Ones."

[Via Declan, via The Agitator]

Letters Still Needed for Wayne

As we requested in this post, letters are still needed for Wayne Fincher. Here's the latest from his daughter:

Could you please announce again that we need a lot of letters to the judge (Honorable Jimm L.Hendren) on Dad's behalf. Please tell everyone to keep writing . The lawyer said she had received several letters. Also on the day of sentencing we need the court room to be full of supporters. The more the merrier. Please lets keep this thing alive. My dad would do it for everyone else. Please keep writing to dad to keep his spirits up.

Please send your letter to and for Wayne via his defense attorney:

Shannon L. Blatt
19 Court Street
PO BOX 1825
Fort Smith, Ark 72902-1825

It's really not too much to ask for, is it? WarOnGuns will, of course, continue to keep you updated.

This Day in History: April 6

Resolved, That no slaves be imported into any of the thirteen United Colonies.

Of Questionable Repute

Assistant Village Manager John Berley said the move is part of an ongoing effort to keep businesses of questionable repute off of Lake Street, such as a spa that was annexed recently.

“Those kind of uses are considered undesirable by our residents and don’t project a good image,” he said.

See, government stealing property from private owners under force of arms is reputable in Addison. Having icky guns is not.

But maybe we're making incremental progress here. At least now it's "questionable". Previously, it was flat out "unwholesome and offensive."

Maybe we should Ask Mayor Hartwig if this represents a change in official position...

Dueling Militias

But the federal Bureau of Land Management is considering expanding the gun-restricted area by 41,000 acres to try to limit shootings at Idaho Army National Guard troops who report slugs bouncing off their tanks on a regular basis...

National Guard spokeswoman Lt. Col. Stephanie Dowling said she thinks the proposed expansion would help alleviate the problem.

“What’s happened over time, as the population has grown, we get more and more people out there,” said Dowling. “Not everybody uses good safety precautions.”

Then you deal with the ones who don't Stephanie. The organized militia calling for unorganized militia disarmament zones is unacceptable.

Unusual Allies

Defiant police officers and prosecutors, however, saying they retain law enforcement discretion, have continued arresting and bringing cases against motorists like Mr. Patton found with unlicensed handguns...

In a report issued in February, the Texas affiliate of the National Rifle Association joined the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas and the Texas Criminal Justice Coalition “to spotlight unlawful, unnecessary governmental encroachment on average law-abiding citizens.”

And what should be done with "defiant" servants?

This is chilling:

The presumption of innocence does not make the person innocent.

Uh, yeah it does, Mr. Rosenthal, legally, anyway, which is what you're supposed to concern yourself with. The burden of proof of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt rests with you.

This looks like calculated harassment, dragging gun owners into court, intimidating them with threats and mounting legal costs into a surrender, and ceding to the judiciary the undelegated power to become a de facto government travel authorization agency, as this Tim Curry creature would submit his countrymen to.

It's nice to see the ACLU come around at least in this small way, especially considering the organization's traditional subversion of RKBA. It's also nice to be able to spotlight a positive action from NRA that deserves our support.

[Via Tom M]

NOTE: The "traditional subversion" link isn't working at this time--KABA.com keeps timing out.

Where are All the 2nd Amendment Supporters?

Now, here is the part where I’m starting to get frustrated. Red’s has started an online petition asking for fair treatment of FFL dealers. This has been out there for a few weeks and there are only a little over 2000 signatures on it as I write this. There should be tens of thousands on it by now! Is this information just not getting out to the gun owning public? I know Red’s is doing everything they can to get the word out. But surprisingly, many of the outlets that should be jumping on this are remaining silent. Hello? NRA? Would it hurt to return a call or add this to one of your ILA action alerts? I have written to them and… nothing.

In another development that disturbed me a bit:

But coincidence is just what Mountain Man's owner is calling it.

"There are big differences," said owner Gary Painter. "Red's had been told before they had to make corrections on things they were doing wrong."

Y'know, Mr. Painter, I'll assume you didn't quite mean what this implies, because otherwise, it looks like...Nahh. You were probably just quoted out of context. Right?

In another development, Red's Marketing Director, Ryan Horsley, has agreed to a WarOnGuns interview. It'll be the same format as with Matt Bracken and David Hardy, that is, after the "formal" interview, you'll have a chance to ask him a question of your own via the post's "Comments."

I'll be preparing and conducting the interview over the weekend, and will probably post it next Monday or Tuesday, depending on Ryan's availability. Stay tuned and I'll make sure to announce the date.

In the mean time, if you haven't already signed the petition, please go do so now--and please recruit your gun-owning friends to do so as well.

[Via chareltonhest]

Damsels in Distress

Charles Williams, who works in technology services for Turner, saw a man dragging a woman by the hair one level above where the shooting occurred. The man told him to get out of the way. Williams went to get a guard, and then saw the man apparently take the woman downstairs. He heard gunshots less than a minute later.

Then there's this account:

The witness, who had gone to get help from a guard, then heard the gunfire...

John Helton, a CNN.com producer, had a direct view of the gunman through glass doors. "I saw him coming down the escalator pulling her along, around the corner; he ran into the plant and that's when they started struggling," he said...Helton said the woman appeared to be shot at point-blank range. "He looked like he had the gun right on top of her head and shot her."

After the shots, CNN.com writer Brad Lendon said, the gunman "looked around, his head turning in my direction. I don't know if he saw me, but at that moment the gravity of what I'd witnessed hit me. I turned away and tried to find the safest way I could out."

The gunman was then shot by Capt. Odell Adams, who joined Turner Security in 1996, according to a spokesperson for Turner, the parent company for CNN.

Once members of the citizen militia no longer realize that's what they are, dismiss and disparage the concept of being part of one, and have no intention of being prepared to protect even themselves much less their communities at large, they're in no position to become anything but victims or escapees in a time when a defense-minded citizen is exactly what is needed. The herd bolts and runs while the predator brings down its prey.

"Men" seek other men to save them, that is, to have the others put their lives at risk because they will not.

And what did it take to stop the killer? A man with a gun. As usual.

[Via Andre]

This Day in History: April 5

April 5, 1776 Archibald Bulloch writes letter to Lyman Hall, Button Gwinnett, and George Walton giving them great latitude in voting at the Second Continental Congress

We Commend Senator Hutchison for Her Leadership...

...in endangering Parker.

When Seegars didn't work, we knew we'd need to try something else.

"In the Name of Safety"

A comment poster over at KABA captured a screenshot from NRA-ILA (scroll down linked page) saying firearm training should be required before carrying a weapon. Apparently someone thought better of the wording choice and deleted it.

While you're there, don't forget to read the article prompting the comments.

We're the Only...Aww, I've Already Used this Title

Deputy's gun reportedly discharges at IHOP

And again, I apologize...

We're the Only Ones Who Aren't the Only Ones

Sheriff Barry J. Jozwiak, of Berks County, Pennsylvania, apparently didn't get the memo about law enforcement officers being the Only Ones professional enough to keep and bear arms.

Armed and Safe introduces us to a sheriff who understands "Gun control does not reduce crime."

I see the House Judiciary Committee is going through the same nonsense its Senate counterpart engaged in a while back.

I don't expect the truth will hold much sway with those intent on advancing their political fortunes at the expense of their countrymen's rights.

Good catch, Kurt, and fine presentation.

We're the Only Ones Misfit Enough

The Maywood Police Department -- a 37-man force that patrols a gritty square-mile city south of downtown Los Angeles -- has become a haven for misfit cops who have been pushed out of other law enforcement agencies for crimes or serious misconduct.

Thank goodness they're "The Only Ones" in Maywood authorized to carry firearms!

[Via 45superman]

We're the Only Ones on the Defensive Enough

The case against Anthony Reynolds, 29 -- who is charged with unlawful use of a weapon by a felon and armed habitual criminal -- has led to official misconduct charges against a Harvey detective and has put Mayor Eric Kellogg on the defensive in an election year because of an accusation that he helped Reynolds remove his weapon from the police evidence room.

There are "Only Ones" and then there are "Harvey Only Ones".

We're the Only Ones Warranted Enough

The use of hundreds of police officers in a series of raids and searches which uncovered one gun in south Manchester was warranted, senior officers say.

Otherwise, UK "Only Ones" might have gotten hammered...

Thompson Stupid on Guns, Too

It’s one of the few issues that former Republican Gov. Tommy Thompson and his Democratic successor, Gov. Jim Doyle, ever agreed on: Both opposed efforts to legalize the carrying of concealed weapons.

Alphecca says "Goodbye, Mr. Chips."

Don't Call Them Anti-Gun, Call Them Pro-Defenselessness...Wait a Minute...

Lawmakers who take the law enforcement community’s alarm to heart are better characterized as being pro-safety, rather than anti-gun, and we suspect most Montana sportsmen understand that regardless of how they feel about the bill.

If only The Helena Independent Record knew how much I care about what "sportsmen" feel on this matter...

Bottom line: If you're against people defending themselves, you're anti-human. Gloss that over any way you want, but it's the truth.

This Day in History: April 4

I heartily wish the money had arrived sooner, that the Militia might have been paid as soon as their time of Service expired. the disappointment has given them great uneasiness and they are gone home much disattisfied; nor have I been without severe complaints from the other Troops on the same account. When I get to New York, I hope a sufficient sum will be there ready to pay every claim.

May I Be Frank?

It’s not like Frank is asserting his right to keep and bear arms as a matter of Constitutional principle. He just wants his guns, and the hell with everybody else. You see, Frank is not only a member of Michael Bloomberg’s cabal of anti-gun mayors stumping for more citizen disarmament laws, but he also wrote an executive order to ban gun shows in Jackson, Miss., along with closing down gunshops.

"May I Be Frank?," my Rights Watch column for the April issue of GUNS Magazine, is now online.

GUNS Magazine, April 1957

It is well-known that the female is deadlier than the male, including small-fry. When an intruder broke into a private home in Pittsburgh while her parents were away, a 12 year old girl went to the drawer where dad kept his revolver, loaded the .38 as she had been taught to do safely, and fired two shots at the intruder. The first shot hit the ceiling, hut the second hit the break-in artist's leg as he hopped out the window, resulting in his capture when he reported to a doctor for treatment.

Fifty years ago, this story brought nods of approval. Today, it would bring endangerment charges against the parents and disapproval from the community at large.

The April 1957 issue of GUNS Magazine is now online.

Also in this issue:

• Guns for Mexican Hunting
• Crows are Tricky Targets
• Why American Shooters Lost the Olympics
• Elmer Keith's Favorite Gun(s)
• Rifles of the Confederacy
• and much more, including the classic period ads

Can't These Psychos Read?

[Click on image to enlarge]

A University of Washington researcher was shot to death in her office Monday morning by a former boyfriend who then turned the gun on himself, police said...

The 26-year-old woman was granted a restraining order last month against Jonathan Rowan, according to court documents.

That's strange...I wonder where UW spokesman Norm Arkans is--or was at the time of the shooting:

“This is a learning institution, and there is really no need or cause to possess a weapon on campus,” Arkans said. “Not allowing guns on campus contributes to public safety and greatly reduces the risk of anything happening, accidental or otherwise.”

Right you are, Norm. Imagine what might have happened if Ms. Griego had been armed.

We're the Only Ones Reinstated Enough

The city and its police department must take back an officer fired last fall amid accusations that he had used a stun gun on a handcuffed prisoner, an arbitrator ruled Monday...

Investigators concluded that Santiago, 24, of Lorain had done nothing to deserve being shocked. Santiago was handcuffed in the back seat of a cruiser when he was stunned, the report said.

The Fraternal Order of Police appealed Bozsoki's dismissal to the arbitrator.

Of course they did.

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

We're the Only...Oh, There it is...

Former Asbury Park Police Director Louis Jordan has his gun back, law officials said Monday.

Jordan, of Tinton Falls, had reported his gun was missing on March 23. He has said he last knew he had it on the night of March 17, but first realized it was missing on March 20.

At that point on March 23 when Jordan reported his gun was missing, Long Branch police already had it in their possession, Long Branch Public Safety Director William A. Richards said Monday. An individual had found the gun at a commuter parking lot...

See, this is why we need gun registration and licensing--so "The Only Ones" can lose a gun, report it missing, search all over for it, and then find out it's in their possession from the freakin' newspaper...

Tell me this would have all ended happily had Jordan been a mere citizen.

We're the Only Ones April Fooling Enough

As they placed their bags on the conveyor belt and went through security, Kate’s bag triggered a detector.

According to Kate, when the detector went off a Transportation Security Administration employee said, "That’s it, call police."

As more TSA employees surrounded her, Kate suffered a severe asthma attack.

That’s when a supervisor told her it was an April Fool’s joke.

Michelle Malkin demonstrates that, when it comes to pranks, there are "The Only Ones" and then there are the rest of us.

[Via Cryptic Subterranean]

This Day in History: April 3

In Congress, April 3, 1776. Resolved, That every Person intending to set forth and fit out a Private Ship or Vessel of War, and applying for a Commission or Letters of Marque and Reprisal for that Purpose, shall produce a Writing...

Shameless Plug: Stand Free or Crouch in Servitude

Or what if I’m one of those policemen Commissioner Kelly doesn’t trust? What if I have no probable cause for a search warrant but I don’t want to let the Fourth Amendment get in my way any more than the Second does in NYC? Why not just call in the tip myself, and enjoy a toll-free bypass around the Constitution?

"Stand Free or Crouch in Servitude" is a rebuttal to the anonymous "gun tip" program endorsed by New York Daily News columnist Stanley Crouch, and my Rights Watch entry for the May 2007 issue of GUNS Magazine, on sale now at upright newsstands throughout the Republic.

BONUS: See page 84 to find out how you can win a Taurus PT 1911, Galco holster and Tops Thunder Hawke knife.

You Can Concealed Carry and You Can Open Carry, But...

A Sandusky man was charged with improper handling of a firearm even though he had a license to carry it...He was reportedly seen carrying his hand gun in his front pants pocket, even though he said he was trying to keep it out of sight.

I don't get what the "crime" is here. He can argue that he placed the gun on the dashboard to comply with the arrest by voluntarily disarming. And I love the way the "authorized journalist" describes the arrest protocol as "asking him to back up and drop to his knees before they handcuffed him."

What if he'd said "No"?

Do As I Say

SEAN COMBS has warned teenagers in Britain to stop the gun violence - because once they get involved with the wrong people, "there's no turning back".

You tell 'em, Daddy...uh...Diddy...uh...

Thank You, Stan

I do try.

Your check is in the mail.

No 'Dilemma' a Healthy Dose of Freedom Won't Cure

Lawmakers may have undermined public safety when they used creative financing to push through a proposal to speed concealed-weapon permit checks...

"We are in a dilemma," he said. "We are trying to figure out how we are going to absorb these cuts."

Most likely BCI will have to shift critical public safety resources to checking the backgrounds of Utah's soaring number of concealed-gun applicants, he says.

No dilemma at all. Stop this nonsense of permitting and recognize the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed. If you want to know what really undermines public safety, it's you pompous jackasses acting like you have the right to authorize free citizens defending themselves.

It's simple. And you'll actually end up with more resources for preserving the peace in the form of an ever-present citizen militia that won't take a dime from your budget.

See how simple the Founders made things for us if we'd just listen to them?

We're the Only Ones Fantastic Four Enough

Cryptic Subterranean treats us to four "Only Ones" vignettes:

• A RANDY cop is facing prosecution after raiding a brothel — and allegedly returning later for sex.
• A legal expert says a judge's decision to find an off-duty Calgary police officer not guilty of drunk driving has nothing to do with favourtism [sic] of police officers and everything to do with the wording of the law.
• A bizarre standoff in Wilsonville took place between police and a double-amputee and ended with the suspect in the hospital.
• A father criticised a police force today for launching an investigation after his ten-year-old son allegedly called a schoolfriend “gay” in an email.

There. Don't we all feel safer now?

Books Don't Kill People

More than 1 million sheets of paper, a cache of unregistered books and a tunnel were found at a man's home after a fire that forced a neighborhood evacuation, authorities said Friday.

The peerless Vin Suprynowicz makes an analogy.

It's Official

It’s official: Airsoft guns and other realistic looking toy firearms are prohibited in Beaverton’s public places.

Fake gun control: to stop non-crimes. And anyone violating this edict is in danger of being shot.

It's official.

Here's a piece I did a while back that's kind of on topic...

[Via Paul G]

This Day in History: April 2

The Coinage Act, passed by the United States Congress on April 2, 1792, established the United States Mint and regulated coinage of the United States.

New WarOnGuns Poll: Property Rights vs Gun Rights

The debate over employee guns in cars parked on company property is once again in the news. We've had this discussion before here at WarOnGuns and it's always a spirited one. Check the left margin for the new poll and record your view.

Here are the results of last week's poll (click on image to enlarge):

Whose political ratings do you trust more?

To the 10 people who voted "NRA," will one of you step forward and promote your position and reasoning? I'll give you up to 500 words in a standalone post to explain why you genuinely believe as you do. Email me at codrea4 at adelphia dot net if you'd like a forum to instruct those of us who voted differently on why yours is the superior position.

Scoffing at Notions

He scoffed at the notion that he was against gun rights and pointed out that he was an expert marksman in the Army and a champion biathlete.

Yeah, I understand Lon Horiuchi is quite the marksman, too.

We're the Only Ones Unlisted Enough

Those with no address listed are retired/former law enforcement officers. The Johnson County Sheriff's Office declined to release their home addresses.

I don't know how I missed this in my original post. Sorry, I still won't directly link to the list here at WarOnGuns.

So does the Sheriff think posting the names of his fellow "Only Ones" might put them in danger? Is that why he's withholding them? Does he have legal discretion to withhold this information under Iowa law? If so, what is it, and if not, why have the "authorized journalists" not demanded a complete list? And if address disclosure endangers ex-cops, does the Sheriff think it will not do the same to "ordinary" citizens, that is, the sovereign individuals he is supposed to be working for?

This elitism--on the part of the government enforcers and their PR firm over at The Iowa City Press-Citizen just plain stinks.

The Full Monte

I am a gun owner (nine) and am not anti-gun. I am anti-assault weapons that were made for military purposes, not hunting.

Monte A. Anderson
Douglas, Wyo.

In other words, Monte, you're ignorant as to the purpose of the Second Amendment and not afraid to show it. If those of us who do not share your arrogant empty-headedness fail, I wouldn't count on holding on to those nine guns you say you own.

And forgive me if I take the story about your son with a grain of salt or two...

We're the Only Ones Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art Thou Romeo! Enough

Lockney Justice of the Peace Michelle Araujo, 33, was arrested Saturday, March 10, for allegedly shooting her husband, Romeo Araujo, 39.

And as if she didn't have enough troubles:

Legal problems are mounting for Lockney J.P. Michelle Araujo after Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission filed a complaint, March 16, against Araujo in Briscoe County for selling alcohol to a minor.

Then there's this:

Witnesses say they saw Michelle Araujo following her husband Romeo through Plainview Saturday.

And this new development:

While in Briscoe County Thursday, we also found out a complaint was filed in the Floyd County Attorney's Office last week. It alleges that Araujo misused her power as an elected official.

We're told at this time Araujo still holds her titles and office.

I have other information, but it's unsubstantiated at this time, so it wouldn't be fair to post. Naturally, further developments will be reported.

UPDATE:(There's no individual story link yet--scroll down main page)

The complainant said, "She (Michelle Araujo) told me she had the authority to do whatever she wanted to do with me... and that she could make my life miserable."

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

NYC Court Recognizes "Stand Your Ground"

An off-duty police lieutenant who shot and killed his unarmed tenant during an argument was found not guilty of criminal charges yesterday evening.

Well, at least they recognize it for "The Only Ones."

I hate to say "I told you so..."

[Via Declan]

More Airport Security in Action

A uniformed flight attendant was arrested at Dulles International Airport after she turned herself in for allegedly carrying a concealed handgun aboard a flight from Atlanta, authorities said Saturday.

I swear to you, I did not see this story until immediately after I created the preceding one. Good Lord, right down to the same airport...

Brady President Detained on Airport Gun Charge

Former Fort Wayne mayor and current Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence President Paul Helmke was detained briefly this morning at Dulles International Airport when an undeclared semiautomatic pistol was found in his purse by TSA inspectors.

Unbelievable. Click on title link for further details.

Related:
2006
2005

This Day in History: April 1

1789 - In New York City, the United States House of Representatives holds its first quorum and elects Frederick Muhlenberg of Pennsylvania as its first House Speaker.

I Think, Therefore I Am?

It looks like Fits has evidently mistaken me for someone with a brain. He ought to talk to my cubs, who are certain they know better than me every time I tell them "No."

I tracked "The Thinking Blogger Award" back to it's source and exploring around the site found this post, with an Indian Superman/Spiderwoman song and dance video, quite possibly the most profoundly absurd sensory input one can experience without being on drugs. The Turkish Superman clip is pretty bizarre, too, from the 3rd-grade opening graphics, right down to the fact that the guy just seems to show up scowling at people and then starts hitting them--really hard. I don't think it occurred to the Turks that Kryptonian is an Armenian name. It's hard to believe filmmaking can be this bad.

But I digress. Thanks, Fits, I appreciate the compliment. As for naming others, if you're in my primary blogroll, consider yourself tagged.

We're the Only Ones Pleading Enough

A former Milwaukee police officer already convicted of calling in a bomb threat to his former district station pleads guilty to federal gun charges...

Bartlett also has been charged with seven other people with federal civil rights charges in connection with the beating of Frank Jude Junior.

Jude has said a group of white men who identified themselves as off-duty Milwaukee police officers kicked and punched him, put a knife to his throat and jammed a pen in his ears as he begged for mercy in 2004.

Sounds like this pleading "Only One" deserves the same kind of mercy he gives out.

If I Was Saxon

NWOBHM legends Saxon have been busy boys...they are releasing new single "If I Was You" from their latest album "The Inner Sanctum". The single, which is to be released on April 16, has a an anti-gun crime theme, with profits from the single to be split between the The Non Violence Foundation and the Gun Control Network charities.

I found the lyrics and a link to an audio sampling to the track in question here.

Stoke The Fire Feel The Heat
Your Chance To Burn Out On The Streets
Smash And Grab On The Run
Play The Game With A Loaded Gun
The Litle Bird Has Left His Nest
He Feeds No More On Mothers Breast
On Your Own You Take The Choice
Listen To Your Inner Voice

Maybe I'm just too much of a Philistine to appreciate the artistry and profound philosophical maturity these guys think they possess, but for some reason, all I can think about is a scene from the original Star Trek, where the landing party is confronted in the opening scene by witches chanting a warning.

"Spock? Comment?" Kirk asks.

"Very bad poetry, Captain."

And for the record, guys, birds aren't mammals.

English metal bands. Is there anything they don't know?

[Via 45superman]

State Security

(Scroll down to last story)

The House Executive Committee debated a series of gun control bills last week. A gentleman asked to testify about one of them. As he came up to the witness table, he dumped a bunch of gun parts on it, startling several lawmakers and spectators in the hearing room. The state spent millions of dollars to beef up security details and install metal detectors in the Capitol after a security guard was shot to death ... and then a guy walks into a hearing room with a satchel full of gun parts?

Good for him. The chambers may not have been evacuated, but I'll bet a few bladders were.

Don'tcha just love the arrogant assumption on the part of spokesthing Dave Druker?

There was nothing there that was a threat to the public.

Why would you automatically assume a functional firearm to be a threat, Dave?

First-person details are posted at ICarry.

[Via HZ]

This Day in History: March 31

The Boston Port Act is an Act of the Parliament of Great Britain (citation 14 Geo. III. c. 19) which became law on March 31, 1774, is one of the measures (variously called the Intolerable Acts, the Punitive Acts or the Coercive Acts) that were designed to secure Great Britain's jurisdictions over her American dominions.

We're the Only Ones Not Reckless Enough

The judge overseeing the case, Gustin L. Reichbach, displays portraits of the civil rights figures Paul Robeson and Nelson Mandela on his courtroom walls.

Pointing to those portraits and speaking in passionate tones, Mr. Ricco compared Lieutenant Walton Tuesday to the heroes of the civil rights struggle. Invoking his client’s public service, he said, “This is not a reckless person you’re talking about here.”

Yeah, you shoot an unarmed man multiple times because he stood up to your thug bullying and you're some kind of damned civil rights hero. And woe unto any New Yorker who dares lift a finger against an anointed "Only One."

Don't worry overmuch, Shamik. Your esteemed judge has pointedly displayed portraits of black communists on his walls (and leave it to the "authorized journalists" at The New York Times to refer to these subversive apologists for totalitarianism as "heroes of the civil rights struggle"). You couldn't ask for a better set up than that.

[Via Declan]

Red's Trading Post Videos

They've posted two new video ads defending themselves against BATFU harassment.

Ryan Horsley's got guts and he's articulate. He's defending a way of life and a fixture in his community from destructive invading parasites, and he shouldn't have to stand alone.

We gun owners are quick to pass judgment on dealers who don't stand up to intimidation, like those who caved in to Bloomberg's lawsuits. We need to be equally as quick to support those who refuse to roll over. This guy goes one step further and swings back defiantly.

WarOnGuns will definitely keep an eye on further developments.

[Via chareltonhest]

We're the Only Ones Gaming Enough

Police who have raided vice-ridden Mexico City neighborhoods in a push against drug violence hope to take guns off the streets by offering to swap them for computers and Xbox video game consoles.

Tell you what, Chief Ortega: Turn your Los Unicos into virtual first-person shooters and then we'll talk.

[Via 45superman]