Friday, April 13, 2012

Calderon Misfires

Kopel does a pretty good job here with what's on top of the table. [Read]

Me, I still think if the cartels wanted the guy dead, he'd be dead. Meaning no way do I believe his hands are clean.

What New York Needs

It ain't a microstamping law. [Read]

Those "Authorized Journalist" Fourth Estate Fifth Columnists get more shrill by the day.

The New Scarlet Letter

A regressive propagandist is trying to tag Matthew Bracken with the "R-word." [Read]

We had this conversation here almost four years ago. Why this is being resurrected now is interesting, and I suppose we can expect to see that brush used to tar those of us who have enjoyed and endorsed Matt's work.

It's a curious double standard. For instance, in a prior award-nominated work of disaster fiction (one the "liberal press" deemed "wildly entertaining" and "a work in the grand tradition") the subject of cannibalism practiced by some of the characters did not result in such accusations. Gee, I wonder why.

Anyway, prepare yourself for some opportunistic feigned indignation and name-calling. As I told Matt when he called the pending article to my attention:
Looks to me like you're handling it just fine--the guy has an obvious agenda to tear you down in front of his progressive echo chamber--and I doubt it will sell any books--so your only incentive to play is to get your words in, which his fanboys will ignore. But if you do decide to do a Q&A, the one thing I would make loud and clear is that it would be cowardly and racist to avoid the issues you raise--kind of like when Hollywood changed Tom Clancy's Arab terrorists to neo-Nazis in "The Sum of All Fears"--political correctness is a form of tyranny, and is racist on its face--you won't play that game. If he thinks it is improbable for people of any race to devolve into unspeakably brutal practices when their daily survival is at stake, it's up to him to substantiate that loopy conclusion--and urban areas will be the ones where high demand competition for resources will quickly separate the sheep from the wolves--and a gang predator hierarchy already exists there, so guess who's going to dominate, and guess how important a role moral constraints will play in their conduct?
I'll say this much more: I've been communicating with Matthew Bracken for years, and in all that time he has never uttered a remotely racist sentiment--not a name, not an observation, not a joke...and I do not maintain relationships with anyone who does.  Everybody I know and like treats others based on what their actions as individuals merit.

It's not people like us trying to disarm and further restrict the rights of the minority community, or using that as an excuse to disarm everyone else.  It's the ones pointing their fingers.

When Regressives Collide

So it's all Tim-Tom's* fault? That's funny...he said it was ours. [Read]

Jeez, there really is no honor among thieves.

Forget it, Jake, it's Chi-Town.

*

Ballad of Sergeant Hack

Interesting video.  Good singer. [Watch]

It was made in my home town. The man has written a book about his life and also runs a pretty neat business.

Vanderboegh Medical Update

I just spoke with Mike's wife Rosey.

They did an endoscopy yesterday and confirmed  he's not leaking from the surgery, but the infection is also not draining and he had a rough night.  He's scheduled for another surgery at 1:00 this afternoon to drain and clean out the infection.

"Hopefully," she says, "this will be the last one."

If you're the praying type, right now seems like a pretty good time.

This Day in History: April 13

From ten o'clock on the night of April 13, 1780, a swift, silent march was undertaken along the road to Moncks Corner by Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton and his men. They encountered no American scouts or patrols. When they reached Moncks Corner, they caught the Americans completely by surprise. Not only had there been no patrols, but Brig. Gen. Huger had placed his cavalry in front of his infantry. [More]

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Bloomberg reeks of hypocrisy on ‘stand your ground’ laws

Mr. Mayor, do your armed bodyguards have a duty to retreat? If not, using your own “logic,” how is that not a "license to murder"? [More]
Today's Gun Rights Examiner commentary looks at the two faces of Mike--as if only one isn't stomach-turning enough.

We're the Only Ones Letting It Drop Enough

An off-duty Omaha police officer dropped his gun and accidentally shot himself at his home Wednesday morning... [More]
I guess NE doesn't issue any of these.

[Via JCP]

Forget It, Jake

It's Chi-Town. [More]

We're the Only Ones Jeepers, Creepers, Where'd We Get Those Peepers Enough

An Edwardsville police officer is accused of peeping at women in a Glen Carbon tanning salon. [More]
And the city administrator's name is Dickmann...


[Via Kurt Di...uh...Hofmann]

Common Sense

...or lack thereof... [Read]

Hardly surprising.

True Colors

McDonald's, Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Intuit, Kraft, Arby's and Walgreens have shown their true colors: appeasement yellow. [More]
Are there any that aren't corporate fascist whores?

Mail Call

Have you written yours yet?

An Important Perspective

"As individuals who have lost loved ones to gun violence, or have survived a shooting, we hope you will agree that we add an important perspective," wrote Goddard...[More]
Yeah, nothing like the opinions of the willfully clueless to shape public policy...

Here's an impromptu test:  Say that right now, right where you are, you hear some shots, and they're getting closer.

BANG

BANG

It's a drill. Do whatever you would do.

BANG

There "he" is in the doorway. What are you prepared to do?

What do you think this band of bleating ungulates are prepared to do?

Whose "perspective" do you think the phantom threat would find more "important"?

80 Commies

Alan West identifies some domestic enemies. [More]

Are you sleeping?

[Via Jess]

America's Most Wanted

John Richardson recommends a name to fill a vacancy. [Read]

Start tacking up the posters.

I wonder if we'd see some action from the AG if it mentioned a reward...?

When Harry Met Elissa Redux

We talked about this unsurprising bit of "true champion" sabotage here.

GOA asks us to do something about it.

It seems a simple enough request.

Do Bloomberg's Bodyguards Have 'License to Murder'?

So does this mean Furious Mike's taxpayer-funded armed bodyguards won't stand their ground and have a duty to retreat? Or should we conclude they have a "license to murder"? [Read]

On the plus side, at least he admits bounties must be illegal...even if he is outraged anyone would dare ask him...

[Via Kurt Hofmann]

How Can You Tell "Authorized Journalists" Are Lying?

They write crap like this:
We support a right to bear arms, but you don’t have to show them off in plain sight
That's called having a big "but." It's also reminiscent of Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal perception--if they can't see it...

And to prove their point, they devolve into the ever-predictable and totally unsupported by reality "Wild West" canard, and throw in a Quickdraw McGraw insult for good measure.

But they "fully support the Second Amendment," mind you...

We're the Only Ones Not a Straight Shooter Enough

The police chief of a North Carolina town has been prohibited from carrying a badge and gun because he couldn't shoot straight. [More]
So he's not an "Only One."

But he'll shuffle papers and keep the pay until he retires, thank you.

This Day in History: April 12

Three British sloops fired on Fort Moultrie as they entered into the Ashley River. [More]

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Vanderboegh Medical Update

Just spoke with him--that's a relief. I've been trying all day, and candidly, getting worried.

They're putting him through more tests.  The message for those of you asking about him is the same as what he posted: "Keep me in your prayers."

Hold off on piling up work for him in the form of emails and comments to SSI, OK?

And feel free to help him out financially via the "Donate" button on his site or via snail mail: P.O. Box 926, Pinson, AL 35126.

Anti-gun group says celebrities should share in monopoly of violence

We now have those who wish to ban handguns to all but state actors welcoming celebrities into the ranks of the exalted.

That the left embraces media figures who are exploitable for their various subversive causes is also no surprise.  [More]
Today's Gun Rights Examiner commentary notes some animals are more equal than others, that is, than you and me.

Holder Continues Tradition Of Selective Prosecution

I...leave it to the readers to assess why the Justice Department would vigorously pursue a case not supported by evidence and ignore one that is. [More]
Yeah, what did Yul Brynner say in "The King and I"?

"Is a puzzlement."

Don't Forget Those Cards and Letters...


YOU are going to do this, right? Plus spread the word...?

Setbacks

Mike is going through some.

I tried calling him and couldn't get through.  I'll keep trying throughout the day and let you know when I find something out.

The prayers aren't a bad idea--the man has been through surgical hell.

We're the Only Ones Appealing Enough

The city police officer fired for a pattern of verbal abuse and making threats is trying to get his job back. [More]
Yeah, what's wrong with giving a raging headcase who threatens to kill people a badge and a gun, if the great object is to maintain a monopoly of violence?

And the folks who want to help him get them back are the Ohio FOP?   No surprise there.

[Via William T]

If I Had a Son...

Mark Walters makes a fashion statement...

We're the Only Ones Not Messing Around Enough

We "don't mess with the Outcasts of Alabama." [More]

So much for "let the police handle it."

So they won't mind if people who refuse to be a victim do...?

[Via John B]

We're the Only Ones Gunwalking Enough

U.S. border agent accused of gun smuggling ordered detained [More]
And my favorite bit of "Authorized Journalist" opinion manipulation:
Mexican cartels rely on purchases of firearms in the United States...
Especially the ones where U.S. government employees are either directly or tangentially involved.

If only we could keep you from having "assault weapons"...

An Expected Response

[T]he District of Columbia Board of Elections has responded to James O'Keefe's exposé of the potential for voter fraud by investigating O'Keefe rather than DC's flawed voting system. [More]
Right on schedule.

While they're at it, can we do something about these Asians?

Cop Killer Bullets!!!

And a "12-bullet barrage from a 9mm revolver"!!! [More]

So..."Authorized Journalists" LARRY CELONA, JESSICA SIMEONE and LEONARD GREENE...which are you?

Liars or incompetents?

Or both?

Fourth Estate Fifth Columnists: Media oberkapos.

Did we do good, Master...?

Do You Have Prince Albert in a Can?

Mayor Bloomberg has it exactly right. Those federal officials who refuse to crack down on the plague of illegal guns in New York City and elsewhere should get calls from the victims of gun violence at all hours of the night. [More]
And while we're at it, those of us sick and tired of tyrants and their authority-worshiping media lickspittles ought to see if we can't get home phone numbers for those recommending this, and call them at all hours of the night. 

Oh, wait, might harassing people "by means of a telecommunications device" be a federal felony where you could end up becoming a prohibited person?  Are Furious Mike and his propaganda corps conspiring to induce their followers to violate duly-enacted U.S. Code?

Bloomberg and his Mighty Antis reduced to recommending prank calls in the middle of the night...

What pathetic bogeymen.  What spiteful, stunted children these control Nazis turn out to be, when you actually examine them as human beings.

Bloomberg's Bizarro NRA

The anti-NRA...? All elite AstroTurf and no grassroots? So I guess they'll define success as getting 4 million people to not be members...?

And freedom am bad.

[Via John B]

How Does That Creedence Song Go...?

Doo, doo, doo, looking out my back door:
What a thing to wake up to. The front ain't much better:

C'mon, Mr. Gore, it's mid-April, for crying out loud, and there go all the spring daffodils. Enough with the global warming already.

This Day in History: April 11

The siege of Charleston began on April 11, 1780. The previous October, British High Command had ordered Gen. Sir Henry Clinton and Gen. Charles Lord Cornwallis to sail from New York with 8,500 troops. Their destination: Savannah, Georgia where they were joined by an additional 14,000 British soldiers. [More]

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Write a letter to the editor, win a Deep Conceal holster

The contest rules are simple: Get a pro-gun rights letter to the editor published by a newspaper or an online news website that features a letters section. It does not include simply posting comments, but rather, should be something selected by the editors for standalone attributed publication. The letter can be a response to something previously published or it can introduce the readership to something new. [More]
Today's Gun Rights Examiner column offers tangible and intangible rewards.

Eat Fascist Death, Flaming Media Pigs!*

Being a lottery winner and a stage prop can be a dangerous combination. [Read]

*

Little Justice

What a hot FFL doesn’t realize is that the ‘judicial review’ process can effectively bankrupt them with legal fees, and that the current interpretation of the Gun Control Act appears to limit the Court’s ‘judicial review’ of the ATF revocation to simply whether or not the ATF was authorized by law to revoke the license in the first place. The merits of the revocation aren’t usually on the table at that point, and it’s an easy way out for the Court… resulting in little justice for an FFL.” [More]
Some call it an "economic Waco."

I've said it before: Those who have skin in this game need to know how to keep it whole.

Most of you don't know this about me, but I spent many years in the corporate world developing policies and procedures in highly regulated industries, including pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical devices, defense electronics and medical practice management, helping them get through all kinds of government audits.  If you don't have a proactive compliance assessment system in place, you're asking for trouble, and those who do generally get it.

The Liability Loophole

In a recent article by the Los Angeles Times, the paper says homeowners who are part of the gated community’s homeowners’ association could ultimately be held liable for Zimmerman’s actions. [More]
Interesting avenue of attack...I'm sure if the antis can use it, they will.

Mitt Romney, Gun Owner

Well, gee, why didn't he just say so?  [Read]

That's all I needed to ignite that fire in my belly! I take it all back.  Where do I sign up?

We're NOT the Only Ones...?

Delaware sheriffs have no arrest powers? [Read]

Anybody have any corroborating information on this?

Change

NRA weighs in on the Lugar race.



Will it be enough?

Houses of the Holy

God helps those who help themselves. [Read]

A Manufactured Example

TPM Muckraker: A wholly-owned subsidiary of the Obama administration. [Read]

Wipe your chin, Ryan.

2 from W3

WarOnGuns Correspondent W3 makes some graphic statements in response to this:


And this:

This Day in History: April 10

SIR,­ The state of the recruiting business in this country is as follows: There are some draughted soldiers in different parts of the country, but they are so far, so disposed, and enlisted for so short a time that we have not thought them worth the expense of gathering up. There are recruits raising under a standing law concerning officers, soldiers, sailors and marines; these are enlisted for the war by a person resident in each county. [More]

Monday, April 09, 2012

An End Run in MD

That's right – they want to change the current law to let them create a new training requirement just to buy a firearm.

If you're a Maryland gun owner, read this and share it with your friends.

Then use this to make your views known.  That's a pretty cool tool.

I understand this is happening now--something about the legislature convening at midnight, so immediate action is needed. Sorry, I've been focused on other priorities, this just came across the transom, and I have not had time to educate myself on it.

I'm going to ask the fine folks at MSI to add me to their alert list so hopefully the next time I get a notice it will give me some time to help get the word out.

"Project Gunwalker" Volume 9 Update

I've added links to my related "Gunwalker" posts and those by Mike Vanderboegh, Dave Workman and Kurt Hofmann written since March 24. That's the last update for this volume.  I'll be starting on Volume 10 on my next update.  [Read]

Find the Best

As part of my link reciprocity policy, I've added a few links over in the sidebar WoGroll for an outfit called Find the Best, specifically for FFLs, guns, safes and ranges. It looks like an interesting resource, so I asked them to give me a description of what they're all about, and they told me:
FindTheBest is an unbiased, data-driven comparison engine. We organize and present data in a consumer-friendly format so that you can make quick and informed decisions based on what's important to you.

How does that specifically relate to what WarOnGuns readers are apt to find of interest?
When approaching the great variety of options in the market for guns and gun-related goods, use FindTheBest to rank, filter, and sort search results along personal preferences. If you are in the market for a gun--whether it is for hunting, sport, or defense--narrow your search by firearm type, manufacturer, class, concealability, caliber, or price. With these filters, you can identify the best product for your needs, be it a .22 Rifle or a concealable pistol. Like the guns comparison, the gun safes comparison enables you to refine your search by manufacturer, model, firearm type, price, fire rating, capacity, lock type, features, and more. The shooting ranges comparison similarly allows for specification of preferences, while the buyer’s guide offers valuable advice on what to look for and what to avoid in your purchasing process. All the comparisons share the goal of removing any marketing bias or gimmicks from the decision-making process, empowering the user to weigh options with the knowledge of all available information.
Go ahead and not only check them out, but use the site and see what you think. I have not had time to give it more than a cursory once-over, so your comments will be helpful not just here, but also for the folks giving us this resource, who, I'm sure, will appreciate your constructive feedback, as well as sharing site links that you get value from.

Little Caesar

Pizza! Pizza!
The family is among the wealthiest and most influential in Michigan with an empire worth billions. [More] 
Sure wish they'd cut to the chase and sell him some rope.  Meanwhile, there are plenty of other places I can get a pie from.  I like the ones I make better than what most joints sell anyway.

A National Day of Action

Sure makes me want to go right out there and disarm... [Listen]

God Forbid We Examine Ourselves

“There is no easy solution to this problem,” Kelly said Sunday, “absent a comprehensive anti-gun strategy throughout the country, as opposed to a pro-gun strategy. In New York, we have every law we need on the books. The problem isn’t this state, it’s all the other ones.” [More]
Mike Lupica once more bends and spreads for police state authority with his trademark obsessive gusto.

Bill Cosby's opinion on guns in Trayvon Martin case shows hypocrisy of elites

Then there are the reports that Cosby himself had obtained one of New York City’s rare, reserved for the rich, famous, powerful and connected concealed gun permits, joining other celebrities like Robert DeNiro, Howard Stern and Donald Trump. Assuming the accounts in the New York Observer and Boston Globe were accurate, has he since renounced the personal practice? And when he did carry a gun, did he “mean to harm somebody, kill somebody”? [More]
Today's Gun Rights Examiner report looks at another example of those who have theirs wanting to keep the club exclusive.

A Voter Fraud

Not the guy giving us the fantastic object lesson here, but the guy he's "impersonating." [Read]

Now watch the lefties scream for his head, like they did when Acorn got exposed for being a criminal conspiracy.

I'm still waiting to find out why it's discrimination to ask for voter ID but not to ask for gun purchase ID.  "Because tyrants are deceivers" is about the only answer that makes sense.

Stop the Threat: Home Invasion

This week on American Trigger Sports Network:
A family becomes victim of a home invasion when criminals come to the wrong address. PROGRAMMING CHANGE: FAST FOOD STRONG ARM ROBBERY

Watch for it on the PURSUIT Channel!

DISH Network: Channel 240 HUNT

DirecTV: Channel 608 PRST

Tuesday, April 10th: 1:30pm PST/ 4:30pm EST
Thursday, April 12th: 10:00pm PST
Friday, April 13th: 6:00pm PST/ 9:00pm EST
Friday, April 13th: 1:00am EST
Click here and here for more information.

Free High-Capacity Magazines

The May/June issue of American Handgunner and the May issue of GUNS Magazine are now online.

Armed American Radio

I couldn't join Mark Walters on his Sunday program due to personal reasons, but he was on duty and gave us another great show--including in Hour 2 doing a postmortem on his RTV appearance.

Click here, then scroll down the right side of the page to access the recorded shows.

The Quick and the Harsh

What an outcry! Just not from anybody who voted for him... [Read]

Besides, we're taking it all out of context. And the media is drumming up controversy. And a negative cabal wants to thwart his vision.

And my favorite: bulletproof glass is "unfriendly."

We're the Only Ones Anonymous Enough

The deputy, who has been on the force for about five years, is not being identified and he has not been charged with anything as of Sunday... [More]
You know the name of the victim. Isn't that enough?

This Day in History: April 9

Friday, April 06, 2012

Deceptive mainstream reporting shows pervasive anti-gun agenda

The problem was, the 'ugly gun' didn’t produce the desired results, so another gun was used to generate them. [More]
Today's Gun Rights Examiner shows what lying sacks occupy the "mainstream media."  But then, anyone who's been following "Gunwalker" knows that.

Also, enjoy some watermelon with the late, great Neal Knox.

We're the Only Ones Lee Paige Award Finalists Enough

An off-duty Chicago police officer was shot when her gun accidentally discharged about 7:20 p.m. Thursday, police said. [More]
I guess that sounds better than "she negligently shot herself"...?

Gee, if this can happen to a trained professional, thank goodness they make it so difficult for amateurs like you and me to go armed there.

Forget it, Jake, it's Chi-Town.

Mr. Obama, Tear Down That Wall!

It’s time for the stonewall to come down...[More]

Jeff Knox brings us up to date on Gunwalker in this excellent overview.

This Is How They Show Respect


What an obviously weasel-wording wormtongue this self-contradicting corporate mouthpiece is. I wonder if respectful ol' Dwayne here would be willing to instruct store managers to sign one of these:


XaqFixx has the full story on this life-endangering insult to millions of decent and responsible American gun owners:


We don't have Bi-Los up in my neck of the woods, but I can tell you if there were, there are plenty of other places I can choose from that are competing for my money and that wouldn't rather see me dead than armed.  "Sound business judgment" cuts both ways. Any customer who puts up with this level of disrespect is evidently content to be a Bi-Lo bitch.

Midnight Musings

Sometimes, you just have to put the thoughts down as they come. [Read]

We're the Only Ones Par for the Course Enough

Los Angeles sheriff's captain accused of taking former pro-golfer inmate on golf trip [More]
Now come on. You don't expect us to believe "Only Ones" would exploit someone because of their profession, do you?

[Via William T]

Facepalm

I just don’t see how our gun laws could have stopped something like that. [More]
So California's #1 rating just isn't restrictive enough. And anybody who suggests there's a slippery slope is nuts.

Dial 911 and Die

And the government will even help you do it! [Read]

As a matter of fact, they apparently insisted on it.

[Via William T]

A Guilty Plea

I can't help but wonder what kind of deal was made in terms of keeping mouths shut.  [Read]

I wonder if they had the presence of mind to set up an "if I die in prison" insurance policy that names names?

On the plus side, I note the "Authorized Journalists" didn't refer to Gunwalker as "a botched operation" this time.

They used "bungled."

[Via Everrest]

It's Good Mood Food!

For "liberals," apparently...[Read]

Maybe it's time for some CUM ULLA SELLA/When Regressives Collide mischief by asking PETA to look into their supplier practices...

Court: 'Not So Fast'

Well, yeah, but that's Canada. [Read]

Obama says courts can't do that here. And he's my president and he wouldn't lie.

[Via Jess]

Stop the Threat: The Jogger

From American Trigger Sports Network:
Based on recent headlines, a female jogs through a park and veers off the public path where a stalker attempts to assault and rape her. Watch as our experts analyze the crime.

This series may save your life! Watch Tonight! Friday, April 6th!
6:00pm Pacific
7:00pm Mountain
8:00pm Central
9:00pm Eastern
DirecTV Channel 608 PRST
DISH Network Channel 240 HUNT

Miss an episode? Don't get the PURSUIT Channel?
"STOP THE THREAT" IS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE!
"Stop the Threat" on ATSN.tv (Click Here to Watch)
"On Your Computer 24/7, When YOU Want to See It!"
The panel includes host James Towle, Dr. Suzanna Gratia Hupp, Shooting Instructor Josh Duhon, and Armed American Radio host Mark Walters.

My New Desktop

I went searching for a Ronald McDonald "pimp" graphic after reading this, and found this instead:
I'm lovin' it!

Vanderboegh Medical Update

Abscess makes the heart grow fonder, or some such... [Read]

As you can see, Mike is back to blogging--from the hospital. At least it isn't a leak.

Supporters: We naturally all recognize that this is putting a tremendous strain on already depleted family resources. Those of us fortunate enough to be able to pony up a day's hospital parking lot charges without batting an eye might not stop to realize that for others, it means shorting something else. Those able to help alleviate some of that can either use the "Donate" button on Sipsey Street or do things the old fashioned way: P.O. Box 926, Pinson, AL 35126.

Personally, I don't care for rattling-seed-change-in-a-cup donation solicitations. I've recommended before, if you get value from Mike's work, returning that value in the form of a voluntary subscription, say, a buck a month, is the appropriate and moral way to go. 

This Day in History: April 6

On April 6, 1780, in company with Capt. Ebenezer Jones, he took a Tory sloop commanded by Jared Bell. [More]

Thursday, April 05, 2012

Is uncertified ‘top Philly cop’ breaking gun laws he’d break us for?

Would it be dismissed as “irony” if he were not one of the exalted “Only Ones,” treating gun laws as they apply to himself “with a mischievous laugh”? [More]
Today's Gun Rights Examiner column looks at a "Fauxnly One" and an authority-worshiping "Authorized Journalist"--are there any other kinds?

Who Will Watch the Watchdogs?

I got an email in response to yesterday's Gun Rights Examiner column that gives further examples of journalistic malpractice I think you'll find illustrative. Correspondent Chris Meissen shared his experiences with me and kindly gave me permission to share them with you:
I just read your column on sloppy mainstream firearms reporting and wanted to say that it's not only firearms where "reporters" are too ignorant and/or sloppy to check their facts. Or to even use a modicum of common sense, for that matter.

I worked as a field engineer maintaining the satellite dish distribution equipment for a major network from July 1985 until Feb. 1995. During that time, I had primary responsibility for five TV stations in several Midwest states. I became especially good friends with the engineering staff at one of the stations I serviced as we shared a common interest in firearms and shooting.

One day in 1989 (I think) I arrived at the station and the chief engineer told me he'd saved a tape for me. It was shortly after the very first discovery of an extra-solar system planet. The tape that they'd saved for me to watch was of their evening (6:00 P.M and 10:00 P.M.) news anchor-bunny reporting, quite soberly and seriously, that:

"British astronomers announced the discovery over the weekend of a new planet *in the upper atmosphere.*" The chief engineer and his evening master control operator said that everyone in master control and all three cameramen cracked up laughing when she reported that for the 6:00 P.M. news. Her reaction was to reply, "What? That's what the AP wire said." She then repeated it exactly verbatim on the 10:00 P.M. news.
Why do I assume she must have been a Tony Orlando fan?

Meissen continued:
A year or two later, there was a multiple homicide in a nearby city in which a man stabbed his wife and mother-in-law to death. That same anchor bunny reported it with a handgun graphic behind her and reported that the man was arrested for "two counts of homicide and two counts of using a handgun to commit a homicide." Note: this was before the days of the tactical pistol bayonet.

Those two incidents alone were sufficient to teach me that reporters are journalism majors skilled at stringing together emotionally evocative words but often sadly lacking in common sense or the most fundamental facts about the physical world. But they do "feelings" well and get hired on that basis.
In an addendum, he also informed me:
Another reporter, at a larger station in a much larger city, gave me an unforgettable memory back in 1993, one that is brought to mind all too painfully today.

He and I were talking of the then-ongoing Randy Weaver standoff near Ruby Ridge, ID. In the course of our conversation regarding the accuracy (or not) of the reports being given out, he told me of his first meeting with his current news director, stressing that the news director was not hired by the station but rather by the station's owners.

My friend said that at that first meeting, the news director had stressed that their job as reporters was "to shape public opinion." My friend argued that their job was to find and report the truth. He said the director responded by saying, "Whatever the public's perception of the truth is is the truth and it's your job to make certain that perception matches station and network editorial policies."

I cannot help but think of that as I read the distortions, half-truths, edited recordings, and hyperbole being disseminated with regard to George Zimmerman's shooting of Trayvon Martin this past week or two.
What can I say, but "Authorized Journalists"...? 

The Content of His Character

“We got to do something about these Asians coming in and opening up businesses and dirty shops,” Barry said in remarks first reported by WRC-TV. “They ought to go. I’m going to say that right now. But we need African-American businesspeople to be able to take their places, too.” [More]
Naturally, he's running unopposed, and naturally, he's a shoo-in.

And if you have a problem with that, you're a racist.

An Underscored Need

Any bets that when it happens, it'll happen in a "gun free zone"? [Read]

You don't think something so big could happen that they'd suspend elections, do you?


[Via Jess]

That All Depends on the Meaning of the Word "Conclusively"

At this early stage of the litigation, in the procedural posture of this case, it cannot be said conclusively whether “assault weapons” as defined by the ordinance fall within or outside the scope of the rights protected by the second amendment. [More]
Sure it can.  Just try saying it doesn't--on a national scale--and then enforcing it.

Damn, Nature, You Scary!

A question about "duty to retreat": What does a predator on the hunt usually do when its targeted prey runs?

Boss Agrees to Schedule Personnel Interviews

Holder said he would talk to the inspector general investigators when they request it. [More]
Yeah, when are employee performance assessment/merit increase reviews this year...?

What? They're the ones who said they're treating this as a personnel policy matter.

You've done a great job, Cynthia.  And welcome aboard, Mike--I can't tell you how highly Lanny speaks of you!

Workman has more.

Opinions are Like Andres Oppenheimers--Everybody Has One

My opinion: The NRA and U.S. gun manufacturers have the right to defend the U.S. Constitution’s Second Amendment provision allowing Americans to keep and bear arms. But the Second Amendment doesn’t say that Americans have the right to buy bazookas, or AK-47s, or other military-style weapons, or to purchase dozens of them and sell them to whoever they want. [More]
And my opinion: I'd like to see you come take mine, you ignorant fool.

Gee, and not a word about "Gunwalker." I wonder why that is?

Read more here: http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/04/04/2731902/us-gun-lobby-could-help-stop-mexicos.html#storylink=cpy

NRA Should Take Hit for Gun Deaths in Schools

I agree. [Read]

And I'll continue to agree until I hear Wayne publicly apologize for and loudly repudiate this.

Ancient Chinese Secret, Huh?*

In 2000, police dealt with about 5,000 gun-related crimes across the country. The number dropped to about 500 in 2011, down 46 percent from 2010, according to the latest figures from the Ministry of Public Security.

The decrease is mainly due to China's strict policy on gun control and tougher policing measures, said Yan Zhengbin, deputy director of the ministry's security administration. [More]
And here's that Ancient Chinese Secret...that somehow doesn't get factored into the totals.

* "My husband, some hotshot."

Coffee, Tea, or First-Degree Burns on Your Face?

The government certainly does hire the best and brightest to abuse us. Where else would this rabid, low-wattage...thing be employable? [More]

Anyone who thinks the feds aren't more than capable of surpassing the Brown Shirt experience is simply delusional.

Pigs is Pigs*

Humphrie the Wonder Pig says "I'm 'tupid--

but I'm not that 'tupid."

My first thought was, what the hell's a 28-year-old still doing living in a dorm? [More]

My second thought was darker--any society where the central government--under the guise of "federal housing rules"-- can compel this level of control on a non-federal institution, under ultimate force of arms, cannot be sustained.

* Remember this...?

And They Say There Are No Stupid Questions

Of course there are. [Read]

The Capital of Colombia Says, “Farewell to Arms”

Sure it does. Along with any other body parts those who disregard such foolishness may be inclined to destroy. [Read]

How does that Beatles song go?
You say goodbye, and I say hello...
My favorite line from this gushing testimonial:
It may seem paradoxical that members of an insurgent movement that once sought political power through armed struggle would now use the mayor’s office to disarm the citizenry of the capital of Colombia...
That's comedy gold right there, useful idiot Alex Sierra R, not to mention masterful propaganda... Goebbels was hardly that skilled in irony.   I mean, on the one hand, you tell us "According to a recent survey, 90 percent of those interviewed in Bogotá agree with the ban," and on the other we're informed "voluntary citizen disarmament campaigns" didn't work.
Colombian Eloi prepare to enter the Morlock's Sphinx...

Mmmm...taste like gallina!

Anybody who wants to take a good look at what the Bradys, the VPC, CS....uh...whatever group the ugly little dwarf and that stupid bald guy are feeding off of, etc., dream about before waking up with sticky sheets and hand cramps, you're seeing it here. Although the idea of stripping them down to their skivvies and painting them red does have a certain elegance--both as an illustration of their ridiculousness, as well as a pretty damn accurate metaphor for what they're all about...

Living Socialist?

 [Click to enlarge]
I'll let you know if I get a response.

Someone may just be getting an earful about "elevated public sensitivity of gun control."  Not that I expect most of our more serious ranks have anything to do with this shallow, chic urban liberal folderol...

Vanderboegh Medical Update

Mike is back in the hospital, in emergency.  He woke up around 2:30 in great pain, as if, in his words, his ex-wife was taking a hunting knife to him through his left ribcage.

They're going to give him a CAT scan. The good news is it's not a pulmonary embolism, which is what he first thought it was.  But he is leaking and his white cell count is elevated, so peritonitis may be at work.

He was in good enough spirits when I spoke with him and his voice did not sound weak--he was lucid and able to express things with humor.  He does request we reactivate  the prayer circle.

As always, when I know more, you'll know more.

This Day in History: April 5

By April 5, 1780, when British General Clinton demanded the surrender of Charleston, the American General Woodford and his 700 Virginians, including Isaac Anglin, had just marched 500 miles in 28 days to support General Lincoln in the defense of Charleston. [More]

Wednesday, April 04, 2012

Sloppy mainstream reporting on basic gun facts points to pervasive failure

This is important and hardly splitting hairs. For many in the television audience, the talking heads do so with apparent authority, so if the professionals don’t know enough to provide accurate reporting, how can we reasonably expect their viewers to know the difference? And if the reporters are this clueless about such basic and easily verifiable information, how can we expect they will be versed enough to report on any aspect of the gun issue, including about rights and laws, and not expect the same sloppy results? [More]
Today's Gun Rights Examiner column notes that when their malpractice is not due to a deliberate agenda,  too many "Authorized Journalists" are far too often simply not qualified to competently report on anything having to do with guns.

In the Running

Richard Mack is running for Congress. [More]

That takes money.

Stop the Threat

Transcripts available... [More]

We're the Only Ones Up in the Air Enough

Kim...was one of two officers who had to turn in their guns and go on paid leave Sunday after allegedly shooting their guns into the air outside the popular upper State Street bar shortly before 2:30 a.m. They were off duty at the time of the incident. [More]
Which explains why you or I can't be trusted to carry when we take our families to restaurants that serve adult beverages. I mean, if this can happen with trained professionals...

Which also explains why they get paid leave and we'd get something altogether different...

[Via Peter S]

A Settled Question

Whether Dean Singleton spits or swallows... [Read]

Oops

Get busy and you get forgetful. At least I do sometimes.

In yesterday's GRE, I neglected to link to Kurt's related piece from a few days earlier.  And I'd even "liked" it on Facebook and Tweeted it a few days earlier. 

I hope this doesn't jeopardize future invites to his luxury yacht...