Technical Difficulties

Kristen Helm, a TBI spokeswoman, said a software issue “crashed the server” at about 1 a.m. Monday morning, halting all gun sales in Tennessee for almost three days.

Not that there's a broader lesson to be learned from this or anything...

Fools Rush In

The Foolhardy Folk Circus, based at Church Road, Sprowston, organised the a toy gun amnesty outside The Forum in Norwich's Millennium Plain over the weekend encouraging youngsters to hand in their plastic guns in return for a toy duck and a heart.

Talk about a name that fits. And look at the "gun" in the picture. Good grief.

I don't know what it is today about the UK and toy guns, but I'm starting to think we need to airdrop some of these.

And then start air dropping some of these...

We're the Only Ones Making Kids Cry Enough

Eight-year-old Samuel England was left in tears after a police officer ordered that his toy gun should be broken in front of him.

And then they go back and harass the kid sister for driving her Barbie car. Good thing they have a handle on all the dangerous criminals so they can expend resources on this.

The implications of this are just so damned evil--here we have a neighborhood where kids are playing and happy and everyone is having a good time until Big Man Constable Coercion goose-steps in and threatens the citizenry to obey him or else. Hitler may as well have taken Europe, because the Nazis really did end up in charge.

[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

Like We Said: We're the Only Ones Permissive Enough

"It's up to them to provide us with sufficient reason for us to issue them a permit to carry a weapon when the everyday citizen doesn't have that right," Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office spokesman Lt. Dan Bressler said...

"We feel like we're responsible if we give out a concealed weapon permit," he said. "Our sheriff wants to make sure we give them out responsibly, not just to anybody. He's quite cautious about it."

Because we're "The Only Ones"...

[Via Janet K]

We're the Only Ones Permissive Enough

The misdemeanor charge was dismissed about a month later in Superior Court in Manchester, leaving Goldberg, 29, with a clean record. But he will have to wait until May 14, 2009, for a hearing before the Board of Firearms Permit examiners, a civilian board that hears appeals on revoked or denied gun permits...

Kuck blames the State Police Special License and Firearms unit for mismanagement, arrogance and attempting to create its own laws on gun permits. The unit, composed of troopers, is responsible for the issuance of state pistol permits, oversight and regulation of firearm sale transactions, and issuance of licenses.

I don't know why anyone would be surprised that a group of "Only Ones" claiming "authority" to give "permission" for exercising a right would be arrogant.

I'd also be interested in finding out if Chili's is doing anything to make amends. An hysterical response to seeing a citizen with a gun from conditioned herd animals shouldn't surprise me any more, but it somehow always does.

This Day in History: October 8

Lieut Col Abijah Brown tried at a late General Court martial, whereof Col Hitchcock was presdt. -- for "endeavouring to defraud the Continent, in mustering two Soldiers, whom he at the same time employed in working upon his farm" -- The Court having duly considered the evidence, are of opinion that Lieut Col Brown is not guilty of any fraud, in endeavouring to have Harrington and Clarke muster'd, in the manner he did. But the Court are of opinion, that Col Brown is guilty of employing Harrington for fourteen days, and Clarke for eighteen days, out of Camp, upon his own business, yet are inclined to think it was done rather thro' Ignorance, than a fraudulent intent, and therefore adjudge that he be fin'd Four Pounds, lawful money, for the said offence.

We're the Only Ones Being Hunted Down Enough

As many as six people are dead in a shooting rampage in Crandon, Wisconsin. The suspect is reportedly with the Forest County Sheriff's Department. At last report authorities were still trying to hunt him down.

They'd better, because "ordinary citizens" will be sitting ducks until they do:

It is now 2007, and Wisconsin is one of only two states that completely prohibits anyone but police officers and sheriffs' deputies from carrying concealed weapons for self defense.

Well, yeah. That's 'cause they're "The Only Ones"...

How Rudy and Michael Made New York Safer

A shirtless madman wielding stolen knives went on a bloody midtown rampage yesterday - stabbing a restaurant worker and a psychologist walking her dog before being shot by an off-duty cop, authorities said.

And how many more victims would there have been had an off-duty cop not just happened to be present?

Is this really what we want as a free people? To be butchered helplessly, with no defense except blind chance stepping in to save us?

This also puts the debate over mental health records for gun purchasers into perspective--if someone is too dangerous to trust with a gun, they are too dangerous to be running around with access to knives.

Anyone who can't be trusted with a gun can't be trusted without a custodian.

More Information Superhighway RKBA Road Signs

I may make the Virtual "Burma-Shave" RKBA signs an ongoing weekend feature, assuming the Poetry Muse doesn't attract too many rotten tomatoes and cabbages.

As always, credit for applying this idea in the real world to RKBA activism goes to the Champaign County Rifle Association.

Free Gun Locks Easy to Obtain in PA

Guess what else is easy to obtain?

"Common Sense Gun Control"--Bill Clinton Style

Any questions?

Conoco-Phillips "Pleased" to Have Federal Judge Disarm YOU

U.S. District Judge Terence Kern issued a permanent injunction against an Oklahoma law that would have kept employers from banning firearms at the workplace under certain conditions.

Kern decided in a 93-page written order issued Thursday that the amendments to the Oklahoma Firearms Act and the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act, which were to go into effect in 2004, conflict with a federal law meant to protect employees at their jobs.

Kern said the amendments "criminally prohibit an effective method of reducing gun-related workplace injuries and cannot co-exist with federal obligations and objectives."

First off, I'd like to know where he pulled that conclusion out of.

We've had the debate here before about property rights, and it's not my intent to resurrect it. I will say that ConocoPhillips, which "is pleased with the ruling," deserves to hear from all gun owners who are displeased with their activist efforts to disarm their countrymen.

They make feedback to their senior management a tad convoluted (mustn't disturb the important men), so I've opted to just link to their "company questions" form (and you don't need to enter your phone number--my form went through just fine without it).

Here's my correspondence--it doesn't need to be long--just stick with the basics.

Here are brands I will never buy again, unless and until this obnoxious policy is reversed.

This Day in History: October 7

How YOU Can Help Fight Bloomberg

From yesterday's post about Adventure Outdoors Inc:

Jay Wallace said...
Please visit bloombergfightbackfund.com for more information on this.

BATFU Asserts Power to Rule Wyoming

“The (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) simply does not agree, on a policy basis, with the Wyoming Legislature's decision and has self-appointed itself the omnipotent role of deciding who should, and should not, possess firearms,” attorneys on behalf of Wyoming argued in court papers this summer.

The federal agency told the state that if its law stayed on the books, they would no longer recognize more than 10,000 Wyoming concealed weapons permits as a substitute for federal background checks for firearms purchases. Such background checks are required under the federal Brady Act.

Gee, how come all the antis aren't screaming "home rule" this time?

Rudy on Gun Lawsuits

In his own words.

I note some are priming gun owners to accept him as a lesser of two evils based on SCOTUS nomination concerns. These are generally people whom I have found have no line in the sand.

[Via Michael R]

What's Up, Doc?

They’re watching you right now.

They counted every beer you drank during last night’s Red Sox [team stats] game.
They see you sneaking out to the garage for a smoke.

They know if you’ve got a gun, and where you keep it.

Not necessarily.

You've been given a tool.

All you have to do is use it.

Incidentally--I'm all for taking ideas and running with them, but I do note one Second Amendment group has taken this form, reformatted it a bit but otherwise left the wording and order as is, and presented it as their own without attribution. That's not something I would do.

[Via Say Uncle and 1894C]

Brown Siege Over

U.S. marshals posing as supporters carried out the arrests of tax evaders Ed and Elaine Brown, officials said Friday.

The undercover officers were invited in by the Browns on Thursday evening, and before the couple realized they weren't supporters, they were already under arrest.

"Ultimately, this open-door policy that they seemed to have, which allowed the Browns to have some supporters bring them supplies, welcome followers and even host a picnic -- this proved to be their undoing," U.S. Marshal Stephen Monier said. "They invited us in. We escorted them out."

Would that the legend about vampires not being able to cross your threshold unless invited in were true--but not that it would have mattered in this case.

Even with supporters you think you know, there is always the danger of a Judas--as happened in the case of Wayne Fincher. And like Fincher, expect to see the judge strictly limit which arguments are allowed and what the jury can hear. Which means don't be surprised if "show me the law" is ruled inadmissible. Expect it.

The lesson, of course, could not be clearer. Obey or be destroyed. Or we'll get you one at a time and make examples of you.

Realistically--do we expect any other outcome? In searching for answers, the one constant seems to be a lone individual or group that overtly defies will be besieged and overcome. Whether we believe in the justness of their cause is rendered immaterial by the certain response. So while I feel great sympathy and rue that things are not the way I want them to be, I can't recommend making yourself a target by publicly defying edicts as an effective way to achieve personal freedom.

The "good" news is, it looks like "the authorities" are afraid to pull a Waco/Ruby Ridge redux--at least for now.

[Via WmH]

Insider Information

...on this.

From one in the know, a past source with demonstrated reliability, who has requested anonymity:

Never a doubt about negligent gun handling. Either the media or a police spokesperson came up with the "malfunction" or "trying to clear a round" story. Bottom line, that particular range has a no loaded weapons behind the firing line policy. The officers in question had been advised of this by other patrons (non-LEO regulars at that range) at which time they identified themselves as law enforcement and continued to load magazines and insert them into their firearms while at the counters along the wall behind the firing line. This placed them (and their loaded firearms) behind the non-LEOs at the firing line, that is why they mentioned the rules to the officers...non-LEO regulars had noticed sloppy gun handling just prior to the incident (particularly, fingers inside the trigger guard while not on target).

Wah!

Farewell, Claire Wolfe.

The internet just became a poorer place.

This Day in History: October 6

October 6, 1778

...A group of local militia, under the command of Captain Johnson occupy a two platform fort, that had placements for 6 guns, but unfortunately had none...

The British arrive and the militia was routed by the bayonet wielding British regulars. There was not much they could do to defend the town. The British had cannons and many men. The defenders of Chestnut Neck, probably numbered less then 20, with no cannons.

Commander Colins found 10 prize vessels still at Chestnut Neck. He ordered the town and all the vessels to be dismantled, set afire and scuttled. It took all night until noon on the 7th.

Still No Word on CA Microstamping

Time to give the governor's phone/email system another boost, don't you think?

An Unpaid Advertisement

QUESTIONING THE LEGALITY of tactics used by New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg to sue gun dealers, a federal judge in Atlanta has allowed a defamation suit by a Smyrna gun shop against Bloomberg and other New York City officials to go forward.

This should be all the testimonial gun owners need to shop at Adventure Outdoors Inc.

It looks like Jay Wallace is cut from the same cloth as Ryan Horsley.

MTSU Students Demand to Be Helpless

Student leaders at MTSU made it clear Thursday that there is no room for guns on campus...

...MTSU police Sgt. Brett Huskey told senators more guns would only create more confusion during an incident.

That's why the first thing Brett is going to do in a campus shooting is throw away his gun. Wouldn't want to "create more confusion"...

Besides, he'll no doubt follow the sterling example of his "Only Ones" predecessors at Columbine and Virginia Tech, and rush in to the building to the rescue, instead of, you know, hiding behind cars or trees while unarmed sheep are being slaughtered.

We're the Only Ones Consistent Enough

UND Police Chief Duane Czapiewski said the ban is necessary to make a consistent policy on campus and to prevent burglaries of guns and the possible use of them in other crimes.

The police department can store up to 100 guns and some ammunition, Czapiewski said.

And, of course, Chief Duane has pledged to make himself immediately available and liable for protecting the lives of everyone who complies with his "consistent" (except for "The Only Ones"!) universal disarmament policy.

It seems to me Mr. Emerson had something to say about consistent intellects like Chief Duane.

"Magic" Johnson

Johnson blamed the loss of life on the availability of handguns in Philadelphia and around the country.

Yeah. Inanimate objects are to blame. They have bad juju.

Lord knows it had nothing to do with evil men.

Johnson, of course, will be the first in line to give up his evil handgun totem. Right, Johnson?

Johnson?

[Via Jason M]

This Day in History: October 5

October 5, 1778

British fleet reached Little Egg Harbor around noon. At favorable tide a few of the more light weight ships enter the bay to prevent escaping ships. Armed vessels were stripped and loaded with troops. Local loyalists join expedition onboard the Zebra and inform of the militia at Chestnut Neck.

The Continental Army - General Pulaski and his Legion leave Trenton.

Response to PBS M16 Piece

Via email:

PBS's piece on the M16 calls it an inferior weapon system that hasn't evolved in 50 years and includes a picture of an M249. My friends and I thoroughly debunk it here: http://jiujitsutalk.com/index.php?topic=5937.0;all

I don't ordinarily talk hardware here because it's not my thang, but it's always interesting to see those in the know take on "authorized journalists."

New 2A Website: Small Armz

I just got an email about a new RKBA website. It's under development, so I don't see a lot of original content--mostly links to other resources--which ain't a bad thing.

I call this one to your attention because we don't often see pro-2A sites originating from Harlem, and any forum allowing us to make inroads into the urban demographic could become an important one.

I do find it curious that on his photos page, Mr. Reynolds presents himself posing with Hillary Clinton, Charles Schumer, and GOA F- rated Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez. Perhaps the intent is to show access to these notorious anti-gunners, and if he can plant the seed with them that not all urban voters are lock-step gun-controllers, perhaps it's a start?

I look forward to reading some original commentary from this site so I can further glean what their mission and strategy will be. I'll also forward this link to Mr. Reynolds and invite him to comment and entertain questions from the curious.

We're the Only Ones Unlisted Enough

The City of Chicago's top lawyer has denied at least one alderman's written request to see a list of Chicago police officers who have the most excessive force complaints during the last five years, a move that critics say contradicts what the lawyer told federal judges this summer.

Yeah, see, allowing them to be reviewed could affect the appeal process. Just like it does with non-"Only Ones," which is why your and my name would be kept secret if we were facing charges, right?

[Via 45superman]

A Rose By Any Other Name

Suddenly, what had been an "assault weapon" (or the even less honest use of the term "assault rifle") has become a "patrol rifle"--presumably because it is now in the hands of a police officer.

Well, that's because, aside from having powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal men, "The Only Ones" also can magically transmute "mass-murderizers" into "peace generators." You and I, on the other hand, will only wreak incompetent and homicidal havoc.

Hey, if enlightened and professional "authorized journalists" believe it, who are we to argue?

How Complicated Can it Be?

“We’ve tried to negotiate,” Schumer said, adding that talks with Coburn are “not getting that far. We might have to bring it to a vote.”

Taking a recorded vote on the gun database bill could complicate its initially strong prospects.

What, you mean people woud actually have to stand behind something they profess to believe in and would impose on the rest of us?

I know there is a lot of noisy controversy over what this bill supposedly will or won't do, but for crying out loud: only in the convoluted and perverse world of politics could taking a vote be construed as a "complication."

Since when has government doing things in the dark ever been a good thing?

[Via WmH]

WRSA Intermediate Rifle Clinic - Brookings, OR - October 6-7

The beautiful Pacific coast is our next destination, as we hold our next Intermediate Rifle clinic near Brookings, OR on October 6-7.

Grab your gear (along with your rain slicker) and come join us in learning lots of practical things you think you already know.

Sounds like an excellent opportunity.

"In Search of the Second Amendment" Premieres at Red's

The Premiere of David T. Hardy's Documentary In Search of the Second Amendment opened to a great crowd in Twin Falls that included Twin Falls City Councilman Trip Craig and Vice Mayor Glenda Dwight.

Author and Historian Clayton Cramer made a presentation following the film.

Getting local politicians to show up is a definite plus. The choice of film and inviting the guest speaker were inspired.

Ryan certainly is emerging from his trials as a natural leader, isn't he?

This Day in History: October 4

American intelligence reports of the divided British army dared Washington plan an assault on Germantown. Lt. Gen. Sir William Howe, obsessed with securing uninterrupted access to the Delaware River, had dispatched some troops to take Billingsport, a vulnerable river fort near Chester. He diverted another unit to escort supplies up from Head of Elk. In Philadelphia a large detachment was left under Lord Cornwallis. Howe's main body of 9,000 troops was encamped at Germantown, five miles north of the city.

A Fair Question

“Would banning firearms reduce murder and suicide?”

What with all the calls to do just that, and all the laws building up to it, that sounds like a fair question.

"A Fair Question," my November 2007 Rights Watch column for GUNS Magazine, is now online.

GUNS Magazine: October 1957

Law Without Legality

As a subscriber to your good magazine, I am writing to you to find out if you are aware of the recent announcement of the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax Division of the Internal Revenue Service that it intended to "change" the regulations of the Federal Firearms Act. Of course, these "changes" turn out to be a drastic and vicious tightening of this act far beyond anything contained in the act itself, such as entering premises for search and seizure without a warrant or warning, presumably on any pretext or none at all, and other equally reprehensible features. In effect, this power-greedy bureau is writing its own law to supersede that of the Congress.

Perhaps I should draw your attention to the fact that this dangerous action, and others more and more restrictive that may logically be expected to follow in due time constitute not only a serious threat to shooters but to patriotic citizens as well; and that this time, they are not emanating from the crackpots and members of the lunatic fringe but from the henchmen of the administration itself.

What can be done about this situation? Something should be.

George W. Courtney
Richmond, Indiana

BATFU. Still lawless after all these years. And in case you missed it last month, the editor's response refers to this.

The October 1957 issue of GUNS Magazine is now online.

I like being part of a magazine that has a tradition of being a leader in educating its readership on not just "shooting sports" and hardware, but also on RKBA. I note many do not carry a regular monthly feature on protecting our rights, so I'm pleased to be associated with one that does.

Your Chance to Petition Gordon Brown

Add Your Name to Our Petition Here

I added "I.P. Nightly."



Feel free to join the fun.

Clyde Challenges Gun Law

Bonnie is pleased.

This Day in History: October 3

Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor--and Whereas both Houses of Congress have by their Joint Committee requested me "to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness."

...Given under my hand at the City of New York the third day of October in the year of our Lord 1789.

Go. Washington

Today, we accept the ACLU's version of the "wall of separation" as gospel. It was never the intent of the Founders to snuff out all religious expression in the public forum, but to instead abolish a national compulsory religion, such as was exemplified by the Church of England.

There's a huge difference. Note Washington "recommends." He doesn't mandate.

Now we've strayed so far that American schools are celebrating "winter festival" instead of "Christmas," so as not to offend complaining Muslims.

Seeing as how the political left is so profoundly and demonstrably wrong in their interpretation of the First Amendment, why would we also accept their version of the Second?

And why would some wish to separate a people from their history, their tradition and their birthright? Might there be a purpose in doing so, and would anyone benefit from it?

Who?

People of the Gun

There's a really handsome guy over there. Word has it Tom Selleck has gone into a descending spiral of depression realizing the competition he has in the gun rights community.

My delusions notwithstanding, why not join us? Wouldn't it be nice to create an album with thousands upon thousands of us proudly standing up for what we believe?

Special thanks to Jeff Soyer for taking this burden upon himself.

We're the Only Ones 'Catch-and-Release' Enough

The two off-duty cops allegedly punched and kicked a 26-year-old Yonkers man who was walking with two women. What triggered the alleged attack was not clear.

Officers from the 47th Precinct, driving by the fight, grabbed the two suspects and handcuffed them, sources said.

But when arresting officers learned the two were off-duty cops, they let them go, sources said.

You know: "professional courtesy."

[Via Declan]

[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

We're the Only Ones Bada Boom Enough

The acquaintance, a Middletown man, was concerned about the ex of a woman he was dating. He asked Etkin for advice on how to handle the matter. Etkin told the man he'd look into it.

According to prosecutors, Etkin told the man the ex was a high-ranking member of the Genovese crime family, and that a hit had been put out on him. Etkin told him he'd negotiated with organized crime figures to withdraw the hit, for $3,500.

Sounds like somebody's been watching too many episodes of "The Sopranos."

[Via Declan]

[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

We're the Only Ones Providing and Disposing Enough

The gun used to kill a 15-year-old Trenton youth in a gangland slaying two years ago was provided by a former Mercer County corrections officer who then helped to dispose of the weapon, an admitted accomplice allegedly has told investigators.

Well then, there's only one thing to do. Sue the manufacturer.

[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

USDA Declares Gun Range Sacrilegious

"This is a sacred site to native peoples," said Monique Sonoquie, a coalition spokeswoman. "Many families and groups use the site for ceremonies and prayers, and having the gun range as close as it is not only unsafe but disrespectful to the sacredness of the land."

If it's unsafe, there ought to be objective evidence in that regard. If the US government is acknowledging something is "sacred" as a reason for permit denial, how is that not making a "law respecting an establishment of religion"?

It sounds to me like the opponents just don't like guns, so they're playing the "culture card."

It also looks like the objective evidence--along with past decades of safe operation--shows that safe and responsible management and operation of the range is readily achievable.

Lawyers, Guns & Money

Chris Horton took the slide show idea and ran with it.

Hopefully, other bloggers will also find utility in this tool and come up with creative ways to employ it in promotion of our rights.

Red's Says "Scuttle Sullivan"

I am urging everyone to contact their Senators to NOT Confirm ATF Acting Director Michael J. Sullivan to ATF Director.

Sounds like a plan to me.

[More about Red's Trading Post from WarOnGuns]

Baltimore Implements Roach Motel Registration

Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon has signed a key component of her crime-fighting plan.

The bill requires gun offenders to register their address every six months.

Looks like the Baltimore Social Registry is finally ready to roll out. Who could be against that? After all, it's not like any one of us deciding that a threat outweighed legal consequences would ever be caught up in such a net.

That the baddest of the bad will ignore this, or that it is unenforceable outside Sheila's jurisdiction is hardly the point. The point is, guns and gun owners can now be vilified and associated with the scummiest dregs of society--perverts all.

Vermin.

What they need now is some way to put serial numbers on list "members." Perhaps some form of arm tattoo, as has been done with "gun criminals" in days gone by?

This Day in History: October 2

Madison's support of the bill of rights was of critical significance. One of the new representatives from Virginia to the First Federal Congress, as established by the new Constitution, he worked tirelessly to persuade the House to enact amendments. Defusing the anti-Federalists' objections to the Constitution, Madison was able to shepherd through 17 amendments in the early months of the Congress, a list that was later trimmed to 12 in the Senate. On October 2, 1789, President Washington sent to each of the states a copy of the 12 amendments adopted by the Congress in September.

UM "No Weapons" Policy Ignored!!!

Classes were canceled on the main campus of the University of Memphis Monday after a fatal shooting there Sunday night.

Look, we're getting a little sick and tired of repeating ourselves:

In accordance with federal and state laws, the University also prohibits the possession of any weapon by any individual on University premises, except law enforcement officers in performance of their duties.

If it's still not clear, we also have TBR Guideline P-085 Workplace Violence Prevention.

How much clearer can we make it?

NO GUNS ALLOWED.

THIS MEANS YOU.

YOU CAN'T HAVE GUNS HERE.

KEEP YOUR GUNS OFF UM PROPERTY.

NO GUNS. PERIOD.

GUNS AREN'T WELCOME.

LOOK, WE'LL EVEN SAY "PLEASE": PLEASE DON'T BRING GUNS HERE. PLEASE?

NO GUNS. NO GUNS. NO GUNS. GUESS WHAT THAT MEANS: IT MEANS NO FREAKIN' GUNS!!!

I don't see how we can state things any more plainly. If this doesn't work, I just don't know what else there is left to say or do.

Damn guns.

Virtual Pro-RKBA "Burma-Shave" Signs

Those at least as old as me will recall the "Burma-Shave" ad campaign--they'd post signs along the side of the road, each one presenting the line of a poem--so that motorists driving by would get the complete message only after they drove to each sign. Corny rhyming aside, it really was clever, as it had consumers making a special effort to look for the next piece of the message.

Some years back, the Champaign County Rifle Association resurrected the idea, and began placing pro-gun signs along the side of the road--an effort that has delighted many of us, and enraged some of the antis to the point of vandalism.

I've been toying with the idea of posting "virtual Burma-Shave signs" alongside the "information superhighway," and the following is one potential way to do it. I'm sure many of you are not only better poets than I'll ever be, but it won't take much to slap me silly at graphics presentation--so if anyone wants to take this idea and run with it, I think it'd be great to see all the different creative approaches--let me know yours and I'll link to it--matter of fact, if enough want to play, next Monday I can do a "Burma-Shave RKBA Carnival," maybe even come up with some sort of nominal prize for the winner. At the very least, I have a spare, never-been-worn Red's cap.

Now after all this build-up watch the slideshow not work.

Time to Widen Investigation in Darrow Case

Been meaning to bring this up, but I've been under the weather lately. Anyway, it has to do with the Brett Darrow affair.

Others have already noted how the St. Louis police staked out the guy's home. Watch the new tape. Watch how they flee when a light is shined.

A formal complaint should be submitted to the St. Louis PD. Why were they there? Were they acting under orders or a free agents? Is there an ongoing investigation of Mr. Darrow? Is this not an overt act of intimidation and retaliation, and is this what all citizens can expect who dare to document theior encounters with the police, and who dare to insist on appropriate conduct by officers?

I don't know their law, but it seems making a u-turn in traffic when there is no emergency, simply to avoid being caught doing something you shouldn't be doing, is a traffic violation that any non"Only One" would be cited for. So I'd file a complaint and present the taped evidence for that, too.

One other item troubles me even more. The website St. Louis CopTalk posted Darrow's home address, along with an anonymous pledge of deadly violence against him, including:

A user calling himself "STL_FINEST" wrote the following item, presented unedited and in full:

in reply to "Who is this terd?"
I hope this little POS punk bastard tries his little video stunt with me when I pull him over alone- and I WILL pull him over - because I will see "his gun" and place a hunk of hot lead right where it belongs.

The post has been conveniently deleted and the forum owner claims he can only log back to the previous 300 posts. That doesn't smell right to me, particularly since we're told what marvelous forensics there are when the "Only Ones" want to use our computers against us--that they can even retrieve erased/deleted files. I have to believe there is a computer somewhere in the system that has a complete record for backup--those with special knowledge in this please correct me if I'm wrong.

Bottom line, Darrow prevailed because he could prove an Only One threatened him with made-up charges, and here we have another (apparently) threatening to make up a justification to kill him.

With what has gone before in this case, and knowing that the forum is moderated, I can't think of any legitimate excuse for an independent law enforcement agency not to seize all records and track down, identify and prosecute the warped little anonymous thug who made the threat. It's past time to track this sick, vicious animal down and render it incapable of harming humans.

[Via Say Uncle, Diary of a Mad IT Manager, DarkBlog]

An Only Ones Three-fer

We're the Only Ones Not Ready for Prime Time Enough: Videotape an "Only One," get arrested.

We're the Only Ones Killing the Family Pooch in Front of your Toddler Enough: Wrong house? Waddya mean, "wrong house"?

We're the Only Ones Standing By Whilst Your Child Drowns Enough: Possibly the most disgusting example of "Only One" cowardice and uselessness ever presented at WarOnGuns.

[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

See How Well Not Having Guns Worked For Me?

The right to have and carry guns for protection is what gives the criminalized gun carrier the right to have and use his to kill innocent people.

The title "innocent gun" is inane. No gun is innocent until is melted down to liquid metal and used for the good of mankind. The innocent gun makes criminals by giving the coward the nerve to act.

I was in retail for six years. During this time I had five employees killed by "innocent guns." I had more robberies in this time, but no guns were involved. One of my men was hit with a tire iron. He laughed about it later.

Yeah. Tire irons. Ha ha.

And nobody's thought about suing this incompetent for knowingly and continuously putting his employees in harm's way, with the reasonable expectation that more would suffer fatal ends because nothing was done to protect them?

I think the guy's story stinks and I don't believe a word of it. If it is true, and if I were a surviving family member of one of those employees, I'd be issuing subpoenas and taking depositions to find out exactly what was and was not disclosed to my dead loved one prior to their accepting the job, and what training and safety precautions were afforded them afterward, with the express purpose of establishing, at minimum, a financial liability for Mr. Thomas G. Sykes, if not charges of criminal negligence.

This Day in History: October 1

James McCormick of Capt. Farrington's Company, Col Sergeant's Regiment, having been tried and convicted by a Court Martial whereof Col Lasher was President of "Desertion and Mutiny" -- is ordered to suffer Death, on the 8th. and 5th. Articles of War -- The General approves the sentence, and orders him to be hang'd to morrow at 11 O'Clock -- The troops off duty are to be paraded on the Grand Parade at that time.

That's All, Folks!

At least for today.

I've been fighting a particularly nasty bug all week--fevers, chills, racking coughs, headaches, rib aches, disorientation, weakness...I finally figured out trying to overcome things by sheer willpower wasn't working and went to the doctor and got a couple prescriptions, at least one of which does not promote industriousness and lucidity.

Bottom line--I've been sitting here at my computer for an hour and a half, mud-headed, and just can't think my way through posting things. If I get hit enough times with a 2 x 4, I can eventually take a hint. For the rest of today, the couch and the remote control represent the totality of my ambitions.

We're the Only Ones Carjacking Enough

A new Rockford, Illinois ordinance allows police to seize any car based on the accusation that it played loud music.

Get that? The LAW says government may STEAL private property from citizens without affording them due process. And, like the red Chinese, who reputedly charge families of executed prisoners the price of the bullet, they continue to extort "fees"--including storage charges that accumulate as they stonewall a hearing.

Yeah, governments are instituted among men to secure the blessings of liberty. The thugs don't even try to disguise who they think the boss is, do they?

Maybe they'll steal the wrong person's car--someone capable of devising a just response--and getting away with it.

Squeeze, baby, squeeze. Until our eyeballs bleed.

[Via Steven]

[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

This Day in History: September 28

Resolved Unanimously that the said Report with the resolutions and letter accompanying the same be transmitted to the several legislatures in Order to be submitted to a convention of Delegates chosen in each state by the people thereof in conformity to the resolves of the Convention made and provided in that case.

By His Friends You Shall Know Him

U.S. Attorney Michael Sullivan fielded some tough questions about gun laws while winning praise Wednesday at a Senate confirmation hearing to become director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Sullivan, a former Republican state legislator and district attorney in Massachusetts, was nominated by President Bush for the job in March.

And just look at who is heaping praise: Ted Kennedy and John Kerry. With Chuck Schumer providing the theatrical cues needed to prompt the requisite responses and give the illusion of a "grilling."

And Sullivan promises to work around those pesky restrictions on providing municipalities with ammo to sue gun manufacturers... I mean, gun trace data sharing. Because we all know Congress said cities couldn't do that. Just ask Judge Weinstein.

Is it just me, or does it seem the "Vote Freedom First" president goes out of his way to alienate ("betray" is such an ugly word) the base?

[Via Red's Trading Post]

A Confidence Game

Almost half of gun crime victims in London's black community refuse to help police investigations, a senior Metropolitan Police officer has said.

Lack of confidence in the police and fear of reprisals stop many answering officers' questions...

Stay in denial and keep thinking it's the guns. Because admitting the alternative could bring down the whole government authority-over-dependency house of cards.

"All It Can"

The Tanaiste has insisted that the Government is doing all it can to rid society of gun crime.

Maybe it should try doing less?

A Plethora of Only Ones

I've said it before and I'll repeat myself--I don't go out looking for new cop stories every day--there are just so many I can't avoid tripping over them, plus many of you send me links and I try to honor your efforts when I can.

But I'm in a bit of a quandary--it seems more and more, WarOnGuns is dominated by "Only Ones" posts--and that's not why I started doing this. I'm spending more time commenting on police outrages and absurdities, and less on promoting RKBA--although I can't deny the two are strongly intertwined.

In an ideal world, I'd have enough time and resources to do a separate website. But that ain't gonna happen.

Is there a solution, aside from consciously setting arbitrary limits, and accepting some stories, while leaving others with equal merit alone? I don't know, and I don't know that I'll end up doing anything differently.

I'm just thinking out loud here.

We're the Only Ones Setting Traditions Enough

The U.S attorney and the FBI are investigating 20-year-old claims that Chicago Police under the command of former Lt. Jon Burge tortured confessions out of suspects and lied about it under oath...

At least 148 men, almost all of them African-American, told a special prosecutor that Burge and his officers at the old Area 2 police station beat them to extract confessions. Some of those men went to Death Row on false confessions until former Gov. George Ryan pardoned them. The city fired Burge, saying he was responsible for the torture of suspects. But a special prosecutor concluded it was too late to file charges against Burge or his officers.

The city also provided attorneys to defend Burge against civil suits that have cost the city $8 million in lawyers' fees so far. Burge lives in Florida and draws a city pension.

Enjoying professional courtesies, no doubt.

In the mean time, "Snuffy" and Laura are doing their best to ensure their idiot followers remain at the mercy of such "Only Ones" [Hey, you'll get your day in court!], and are working toward the day when you and I will also know the sweet peace that comes only from submission and dependence.

We're the Only Ones Elite and Special Enough

A Chicago police officer who was already in legal trouble was arrested Wednesday on federal charges for allegedly planning the murder-for-hire of a former fellow police officer.

...Finnigan was assigned to the elite Special Operations Section of the Chicago Police Department. He was one of six members of that unit arrested in 2006 for allegedly using their badges to shake down residents for cash and other items. He was suspended from the force after state charges were filed in that case.

Bummer. There goes his eligibility for professional courtesy. Meanwhile, Chicagoans "Snuffy" Pfleger and Laura Washington are working hard to make sure Daley's "Only Ones" continue to enjoy an elite and special monopoly of force--while working to expand that condition state and nationwide. The result, of course, would leave "ordinary citizens" (that would be you and me) at the mercy of the Finnigans of the world, not to mention the feral, enabled offspring of witless pawns-for-the-police-state mothers. All in the name of humanity, mind you.

[Via 45superman]

This Day in History: September 27

I would therefore observe, that you will endeavour, as you advance, to obtain information of the Enemy's and our situation and regulate yourself accordingly.

Hah! See?

Washington used the word "regulate."

If this isn't proof the Founders wanted "gun control laws," then nothing is. I mean, what else could he have meant?

St. John's Campus Lockdown: Man With Rifle Arrested

What is with these people not following clearly stated policy?

The following actions are considered violations of the Student Code of Conduct and are subject to disciplinary action:
30. Weapons and ExplosivesPossession, display, use or distribution of any weapon such as a firearm, knife, blackjack, stun gun, etc., or any item used as a weapon or of such a nature that it is intended for use as a weapon or violent purposes, except with expressed University authorization, on University-owned or controlled property or at University-sponsored functions.

This report says it was "a .50 caliber rifle inside a bag." It's unclear at this point how many 747's fly over St. Johns' Queens campus, or if there are any nearby chemical plants, refineries or nuclear facilities to blow up, so it beats me what else he would have needed one for.

We'll see if it ends up being a .50 BMG.

We're the Only Ones Flunking Enough

They wanted to carry guns, but one in five Canadian border guards have been flunking their shooting lessons...

As well, some officers needed fitness training so their arms remained steady during the shortened shooting training which caused fatigue.

So I guess the answer lies with "changes made in the training program after the initial failure rates were noticed."

But "the union is not advocating that unqualified offiers [sic] be pushed through."

Obviously not.

[Via Matthew Maynard]
[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

What Can We Infer?

Boys shot as Brown cracks down on gun crime

I don't suppose anyone would care to extrapolate anything from this...?

We're the Only Ones Bordering on the Ridiculous Enough

Three Mexican minors detained in California on suspicion of smuggling drugs stole a U.S. Border Patrol car while still wearing handcuffs and drove it back across the border to Mexico.

Homeland Security-"Only Ones" style.

What is it with cruisers this week?

We're the Only Ones Promoting Virtue Enough

According to Dr. Al-Marshood, the two commission members approached the girls in order to "politely" advise and guide them regarding their inappropriate clothing.

Consequently, the two girls started verbally abusing the commission members, which then lead to one of the girls pepper-spraying them in the face as the other girl filmed the incident on her mobile phone, while continuing to hurl insults at them.

That's actually pretty darn funny.

[Via Peter G]
[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

We're the Only Ones Professionally Courteous Enough

If you are a police officer, trooper, court officer, correction officer, telecommunicator, highway patrol, federal agent, or any other type of police (peace) officer either full-time, part-time or retired that has been disrespected or insulted by another police agency (officer) by not receiving some sort of professional courtesy, please email staff (at) copswritingcops.com with the information.

And if you're a citizen, don't try me, boy.

Unfreakingbelievable. But hey, that's why they're "The Only Ones."

[Via Peter G]

Prying Open Cold Dead Hands

Laura Washington seems to think it's just a saying.

You'll never dominate the Internet, Laura--only the elitist media sites and programs that employ evil airheads like yourself. SayUncle does a good job of explaining why.

I couldn't help but notice the last time you mobilized all your mothers, it was a bust. I also can't help but notice that it's this same crop of women you turn to for salvation who are producing and enabling the fatherless, feral and unrestrained young worthies who are causing the bulk of the problems.

But we don't want to talk about that.

Still, I am curious about one thing, Laura: How many sets of dead hands will be enough for you?

[Via Bruce M]

This Day in History: September 26

On September 26, 1777, British troops marched into Philadelphia and occupied the city forcing the Continental Congress, meeting in the Pennsylvania State House (later renamed Independence Hall), to flee to the interior of Pennsylvania. General Washington and his army had battled the British south of Philadelphia at Brandywine Creek on September 11. That evening, Washington sent a letter to the Continental Congress reporting the outcome...

You remember Independence Hall, right? That famous UN World Heritage site?

Have You Seen Me?

The Halton Police could use your help, eh?

[Via Bruce M]

[Graphic via Stieger]

We're the Only Ones Wild West Enough

When they left Wild West City amusement park in New Jersey, 12-year-old Aleksey Derevyankin sat in the family's gray Ford Focus, a black cowboy hat on his head, a gold "Deputy Marshal" star with him, pretending to shoot a toy gun — a Western-style revolver with a bright orange tip.

A passing motorist saw the Focus and reported it to police as a road-rage incident with someone in the backseat pointing a gun. Police ran the license plate, which came back to Keahon's Oak Street home.

I'm amazed we survived The Fifties. I know this would sure scare the hell out of me:



[Via Declan]
[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

We're the Only Ones Defending Ourselves Enough

Proof that having a gun can drive away an attacker with lethal intentions...too bad New Jersey limits such responses to "The Only Ones," but in truth, your life just isn't that important.

From NRA-ILA:

Issuance of the permit is almost completely discretionary, and New Jersey courts have upheld the policy of strictly limiting permits “to persons specifically employed in security work . . . and to others who can establish an urgent necessity for carrying guns for self-protection.”

[Via Tony G]

Opportunity Knocks

Now Gov. Schwarzenegger has a chance to make Californians safer, and set a new national standard, by signing into law the Crime Gun Identification Act of 2007.

More bloviating by "authorized journalists" who don't know what the hell they're talking about. And they accuse us of being "reflexive."

And it figures they'd work in a reference to Virginia Tech.

Now would probably be a good time to add some more effort to "The Surge."

This Day in History: September 25

On September 25, 1789, the First Federal Congress of the United States proposed to the state legislatures twelve amendments to the Constitution. The first two, concerning the number of constituents for each Representative and the compensation of Congressmen, were not ratified. Articles three through twelve, known as the Bill of Rights, became the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution and contained guarantees of essential rights and liberties omitted in the crafting of the original document.

Rudy to Give Keynote Speech at IACP Fundraiser

45superman has the scoop.

That's right, Rudy.

Come tell gun owners how much you love them, then go help your fascist globalist citizen disarmament pals raise a ton of money to use against them.

Will wifey interrrupt your speech there, too?

We're the Only Ones Banging Instead of Zapping Enough

Frederick P. Henry was fleeing arrest and Somerset County Deputy Sheriff Robert Purnell needed to stop him. Purnell reached back to unholster his Taser, then drew and fired at Henry.

But instead of drawing his Taser, designed to merely immobilize suspects, Purnell had mistakenly grabbed his Glock .40-caliber handgun.

Gosh, that really makes you stand back and think. If a highly trained professional "Only One" can make such a mistake, what chance do untrained boobs like you and I have of safely deploying grown-up weapons?

It's Good to be Prince...

A MAN armed with a fake gun was pounced on and disarmed by bodyguards protecting Prince Edward, it emerged yesterday.

Bodyguards. Cool. There goes one safe dude.

So what do Eddie's subjects, who don't enjoy such a happy circumstance of birth, do when they feel threatened?

The Impossible Dream

Namibia: NGOs Dream of a Gun-Free Society

Keep dreaming. But somehow, it won't be entirely "gun free," will it? The political establishment and their enforcers will still have arms. As will violent criminals, Marxist "revolutionaries"...

Banning Together

Three Chicago fathers who lost their sons to gun violence are banning together in hopes of stopping the shooting.

At first I thought the "authorized journalist" must have made a mistake, meaning to write "banding together," but this seems to more accurately describe their intent.

This Day in History: September 24

The Battle of Longue-Pointe was fought on September 24, 1775, during the American Revolutionary War and was a British victory. A detachment of General Montgomery's army under Ethan Allen was defeated by Quebec militia outside the gates of Montreal.

We're the Only Ones Mouthing Off to Drunks Enough

Investigators have accused Vela of performing oral sex on a male employee after the man passed out drunk at a party about a year ago at Vela's home in Mission, according to court documents. Vela is also accused of violating a different male employee with an object while that man was passed out at a party in July, Sheriff Lupe Trevino said.

Left unexplored is the type of out-of-control loser who passes out drunk at parties, and why such "Only Ones" appear to be the norm for the Alton PD .

I wonder if Jose is a member of the IACP...

We're the Only Ones Impressing the Ladies Enough

Prosecutors have filed two misdemeanor charges against a former police officer who authorities say crashed a squad car while showing off for three female college students riding with him...

Lyons afterward said he was "scared and afraid" and not thinking clearly when he failed to tell supervisors all the details of the accident, according to police reports. A report quotes Lyons as telling a supervisor that "I was stupid and trying to impress three pretty girls who were paying attention to me."

That's damned near pathologically pathetic. And we're to believe this loser is more capable of responsibly bearing arms than you and me?

[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

Officer Down

A police sergeant whose berating of a driver was captured on videotape has been fired.

About time. Anyone who threatens to manufacture charges against a citizen needs to be stomped hard. But why isn't he also being prosecuted? And as he clearly stated in the video that he was recording the encounter from his squad car, and now claims there is no tape, why haven't evidence tampering/destruction charges also been filed?

Go to the video link in the above paragraph, and get to 4 minutes and 14 seconds into it. I'm trying to ungarble the words, but doesn't it sound like he's saying "Then we can tear 'em all apart" in reference to the recorders?

[Via Peter G]

Rudy Savages 2A in Front of NRA Amidst Polite Applause

“After all the second amendment is a freedom every bit as important as the other freedoms in the first ten amendments. Just think of the language of it — ‘the people shall be secure’ –let’s see, this is my wife calling…”

I agree with Stop the ACLU that "What Rudy was quoting was most likely the 4th Amendment." But I'll go a step further and charge that the "well timed phone call [that] saved him" was a transparent manipulation of the audience--some of whom dutifully applauded. My money says it was a staffer telling him he was entering a swamp of no return.

Besides- Rudy told his first wife he loved her, too. And his second. Now we're to believe he loves us?

And here's another insight into The Bill of Rights According to Rudy:

"You should know I understand that the right to bear arms is just as important a right in that Constitution as the right of free speech and the other rights ... It's not going to change, unless something dramatic has happened to make it change, and then I'll explain to you why," he said.

Why don't you "explain why" right now, Rudy, or at least "how."

About the only perversion of founding intent that could even be "legally" raised--however implausibly--would be to repeal the Second Amendment. And that would not only require the Constitutionally-mandated ratifying process, but you'd still have at least some of us resisting on the principle that unalienable rights are not bestowed by government. But if that's what you're talking about, Rudy, we don't need you to tell us "why"--we'd be on top of that "debate."

So the only alternative scenario I can come up with is Rudy hinting at imposing martial law as a result of some "disaster"--be it natural or directed. I read this as nothing less than a promise he'll read us the edict when he orders mass citizen disarmament.

I see some in the "gun rights community" are already paving the way for how we'll have no choice but to support this monster if it boils down to Rudy vs. Hillary. The hell with that, and yes, I'm aware of the appointment of judges and bureaucrats argument. I see no difference between either proto-tyrant, and see no evidence that Rudy wouldn't pad his team with statists and functionaries loyal to his particular brand of fascism. And it should be obvious that the Republicans would at least offer token opposition to a Democrat president. When it's their boy in power, incentives to go along for the good of the party--quid pro quo rewards or punishment for "disloyalty"--will do much to keep all but the already marginalized in line.

We celebrate the anniversary today (or at least we should) of the immortal words (or at least they should be) "I have not yet begun to fight." If either Rudy or Hillary ascend to the Imperial Throne, we'd better come to terms with what they mean--and prepare ourselves to give up before the fight begins if we're unwilling to do so.

[Via John S and 45superman]

This Day in History: September 23

On September 23, 1779, Jones fought one of the bloodiest engagements in naval history. Jones struggled with the 44-gun Royal Navy frigate Serapis, and although his own vessel was burning and sinking, Jones would not accept the British demand for surrender, replying, “I have not yet begun to fight.” More than three hours later, Serapis surrendered and Jones took command.

We're the Only Ones Sorry Enough

"I’m not going to deal with a guy that has a loaded gun until I secure a weapon.”

You forget your place, servant. Who the hell do you think you are? And how about if we deal with you on those terms?

I wouldn't accept an apology from the Chief. Unless it comes sincerely from the offender himself, it is meaningless, and this "Only One" is still justifying and making excuses for his elitism and his ignorance.

And how nice of the department to exonerate Greene of excessive force liability. Where I come from, if someone grabs my arm, restrains me, puts me up against a wall, forcibly searches me and threatens me, all with the understanding that deadly force will be used if I don't obey, it's called "assault and battery" at a minimum. I'd think if the guy wasn't wearing a uniform, one could probably justify using deadly force as an appropriate self-defense response.

How wonderful these guys will now get some training into what the laws they are paid to enforce actually say. But I can't help wonder, if they catch one of us breaking the law and we say it's because we didn't know, will they accept our apology and give us a pass?

If it were me, I'd be looking at filing criminal and civil complaints.

Turning Assets Into Liabilities

Phoenix police won't be selling seized guns after all.

The Phoenix city government would rather pay to store them and inventory them and transport them and melt them, instead of treating them as revenue-generating assets. And then come back and complain how they don't have enough money to do their job and need this bond measure or that tax increase...

Another Dangerous "Gun Criminal" Off the Street!

Susan P. Dorsey, 50, sold four revolvers, a .22-caliber, two .38-calibers and a .32-caliber, to the pawnshop, the Baltimore Gun Task Force found while reviewing its records. The guns belonged to Dorsey's father, who is deceased.

Stupid move, Susan. You should have taken them to one of those "gun buy-backs", where you could have redeemed them for gift certificates, cash or prizes--all "no questions asked."

I love how spokespolicestateapologist Greg Shipley credits a "meticulous review of pawnshop records by the Baltimore Gun Task Force" for this stunning success at keeping us all safe. I don't suppose it's occurred to you, Greg, that if Susan had really wanted to bypass the system, she'd have just sold the guns "on the street" with no records. Let's see what your "Task Force" could have done about that.

I also can't help but notice how a conviction 18 years ago means this woman is forever deemed unworthy to be able to protect her life. As long as we're going to invoke those standards, shouldn't they be applied equally to all?

We're the Only Ones Stunning Enough

An Ohio police officer has been put on paid administrative leave after his own police cruiser's dash camera captured him using a stun gun to subdue a handcuffed woman, an attorney for the city of Warren, Ohio, told CNN on Thursday.

Yeah, I've always found the best way to restore sanity to a situation is to introduce screaming agony into it. Maybe kick 'em in the back when they're on their hands and knees, give 'em another jolt so they slam their head into a car fender...

Isn't that what Cesar Milan always does when he wants to encourage "a calm, submissive state"?

There's an opportunity for Officer Kovach: "The Drunk Whisperer." I know I'd watch it.

[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

This Day in History: September 22

September 22, 1781 - British fireships are released on the ebb tide, forcing French ships blockading the York River to move downstream. However, the French ships maintain the blockade.

In a Rational World...

...this lying sob would have been booed off stage amidst a hail of rotten cabbages and tomatoes.

BREAKING NEWS: DSU's "No Guns" Policy Violated!

UNBELIEVABLE!

Two students were shot and wounded, one seriously, at Delaware State University early Friday, and the campus was locked down as police searched for a gunman, officials said.

I just don't get it.

Campus policy clearly states:

WEAPONS/FIREARMS/EXPLOSIVES
The use, possession and/or storage of firearms, ammunition, explosives, fireworks or other lethal weapons of any kind in motor vehicles, buildings or elsewhere on University Premises or during University Activities are prohibited. Students who violate this policy will be referred to the Judicial System. The penalty for possession of weapons is expulsion.

It's especially perplexing, because their "Zero Tolerance Policy applies to... Weapons/Firearms/Explosives (possession or use)."

At least their residence halls are still safe:

Because of the threat of violence in our society, we are very concerned about weapons in our residence halls. Therefore, we prohibit the possession of weapons or those items that a casual observer might perceive to be a weapon (e.g., toy guns, stun guns etc.). Persons found to be in possession of such items or weapons may be charged with a violation of the Code of Student Conduct.

I just can't figure out what went wrong.

Perhaps Campus Security's "three-tiered system" and S.E.C.U.R.E. Program could use some fine tuning?

Personally, I think the DSU Escort Service wasn't employed. I mean, what animal with a gun would want to be confronted by "cadets...identified by their blue Public Safety shirt or jacket [and] equipped with two-way radios, and flashlights for quick dispatch and prompt safe service"?

Hold on--I think I may have pinpointed the problem: The escort's jacket is orange!



[Via Chris H and Bruce M]

It's Time to Employ the Surge...

...in California.

I see nothing in today's news about Arnold signing the microstamping bill. Perhaps the flood of calls and emails has given him pause to consider.

It's been some days since I've seen anyone pushing this, so rather than give the impression that there is a lull in our commitment, why not give the effort a surge before everyone skies out for the weekend?

Call or email the governor's office today. Matter of fact, why not take one measly minute and do it right now?

And tell a friend...

"With Support from the Joyce Foundation"

"With support?"

David Hardy points out they funded and wrote the damn thing.

Everybody realizes this is nothing less than a declaration of war on free Americans, right?

Curious how the "law enforcement" establishment is stepping up their treason at the same time they're arming themselves with the stuff they want to take from us. What can I say--they're "The Only Ones"...and naturally, their "authorized journalist" cheerleading squad is calling out the chant on cue.

Y'all are ready for the next federal "assault weapons" ban, right? Look for it right after the Dems sweep office at the next election, thanks to the Republicans blowing their time at bat so badly--and offering us such pathetic leading choices under their self-fulfilling trademark mantra that principled candidates can never win.

And even if Parker...uh...Heller results in an affirmative ruling, I wouldn't be looking for strict scrutiny standards to be applied to future "gun" cases--my layman's guess is that "compelling state interest" would trump any challenge to an "assault weapons" ban--that is, assuming SCOTUS wouldn't just duck the controversy outright. And assuming they don't screw us on Heller.

Why do I sound so certain this is the course we're headed on? No one can know the future, of course, otherwise I'd be making online stock trades right now instead of blogging. But it sure seems like it's in the wind, doesn't it?

Humor me: let's say I'm right. Let's say a federal ban passes mirroring California law--semiautomatic firearms are banned by characteristic and by name (and hell, let's throw in those .50 BMGs that can blow the Starship Enterprise out of low Earth orbit--besides, the Chiefs are asking for it in the Joyce Report). Let's say the new law "grandfathers" existing ownership (for the time being), provided you register your firearms with the government.

All of you who maintain we need to enforce existing gun laws and work to change the ones we don't like--will you comply? If you will, a fair question might be "Then what good is the Second Amendment?"

[Via HZ]

We're the Only Ones Green Enough

"I ask the citizens of Orem: How many of you would like to have your great-grandmother taken from her home with bruises and blood and placed in handcuffs for failing to water her lawn?" attorney Gloria Allred said.

Hey, what do you expect us to do, come up with non-coercive and non-violent solutions?

Damn right "the city attorney still is pressing charges." Maybe she won't give her name again and they can finish the job.

[Via Wm H]
[More from "The Only Ones" Files]

This Day in History: September 21

Faced with financial ruin, uncertain of future promotion, and disgusted with congressional politics, Arnold made a fateful decision: he would seek fortune and fame in the service of Great Britain.