If you are anti-guns, or afraid of guns, or just don't like them and don't want them in your house, then this blog is for you.
(It might just change your mind)

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Texas Police Chiefs statement on gun violence

This statement was released on the Texas Police Chief's Association website.




In light of several recent events, members of the Texas Police Chiefs Association (TPCA) have engaged in numerous discussions regarding violence in our society, including various related topics such as what conditions stimulate or facilitate violent behavior and what might be done to mitigate these behaviors. The State of Texas, like many other areas of the United States, has been touched by horrendous acts of violence. This document is created in an effort to describe the consensus views of the Association’s membership. Whether these terrible acts have occurred in Texas, Connecticut, Colorado, Massachusetts or any other location, the 1000 members of the TPCA are saddened and send our sympathies to the victims, family members, first responders and communities as they struggle with the aftermath of these senseless criminal acts. 

This Nation is the greatest social experiment in human history. A society based on individual freedoms and self-determination, the United States of America was designed to function according to the rule of law that facilitates the individuals’ pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. This noble cause cited in the Declaration of Independence is at the root of the nation’s identity. The openness of this great society sometimes allows opportunities for those who shun the responsibility of good citizenship to manifest violence toward their neighbors.
Although the violent tendencies of some have been evident throughout history, it is particularly painful to see the senseless acts of mass violence that are occasionally perpetrated in these times. Violence, randomly committed against anyone, especially the most innocent of victims, is unreasonable and intolerable to the normal mind, regardless of its method. In recent history, criminal acts of mass violence have occurred in places of education, work and recreation. In each case those acts were designed by the criminal to make or prove some intellectual point which rational minds recognize as demented and the violent action was clearly unreasonable.
Violence and depictions of violence are far too prevalent in this culture. Popular culture sometimes celebrates violence while ignoring the consequences. Media depictions of violence are many times devoid of moral context and focus on sensationalizing or celebrating revenge, subjugation or humiliation as reasons for extreme violence. Criminality in some ways has become acceptable and excused. Violent video games or other media can reinforce the paradigm that extreme violence is an enjoyable outlet and may desensitize the marginal mind to the real consequences of the conducts depicted. Violence among crowds at sporting events suggests the culture is too accepting of violence as a solution to frustrations or disagreements. The control of violence generally should be a primary goal in any discussion and the discourse structured to include those who have large scale influence on cultural mores. 

Those who work within the criminal justice system, like many in other disciplines, are keenly aware of the prevalence of mental illness in society. Some studies have suggested that as many as half of those in prison or jail suffer from mental illness. Law enforcement officers encounter the mentally ill on a regular basis during the performance of their routine duties. The health care system also feels the impact of mental health issues as hospital emergency rooms and clinics struggle to find solutions for those who have mental illness. Families find it difficult to locate resources for their members who are mentally ill, even when the person is actively seeking help.
Systems to address issues of mental illness are overworked and underfunded. Resources are inconsistently available depending on the location. Many times processes are complex and hard to navigate for people seeking mental health assistance and the procedures for compulsory intervention through the courts is not always timely. Dealing with mental health issues in an emergency context many times falls to law enforcement and commonly the mental health system is not oriented toward quick reactions. In some cases it is simply difficult or impossible under the current configurations to deliver mental health services to those who desperately need but resist them.
Almost every act of mass violence in history contained a component of mental illness. People who knew the perpetrators of these acts many times say after the fact that certain behaviors were odd or that comments were made indicating concern. Very often these indicators are ignored because witnesses don’t want to think the worst or they don’t trust their own instincts. In most cases, people do not understand the various types and severities of mental illness so they miscalculate the potential dangers.
In light of current events, this may be the greatest opportunity in history to have meaningful conversation about this serious issue. Significant benefit would come from a nationwide strategy to deal with mental illness. This would involve substantive funding to close gaps in service, provide for the handling of emergency mental health issues and safe guards in those cases wherein the potential for violence exists. 

Although firearms have been the chosen tool in many violent acts, it was in every case a tool chosen rather than a motivation for the violence. In the State of Texas, millions of legal firearm owners live and work in communities of all sizes. Although no definitive numbers are available, polls have indicated between 40% and 50% of the households in America own guns. Gun ownership seems statistically much more common in less urbanized areas across the United States. According to some research, there are only six States where less than 20% of their populations own guns and, with the exception of Hawaii, all are located in the Northeast. Firearms are legally owned and safely used by citizens for hunting, sport shooting, self-protection and collecting. Firearms are passed down as family heirlooms and are a significant part of these family histories. Although used on occasion for illegal reasons by dishonorable or deranged people, much more commonly they are used for legal reasons by honorable and productive people. 


For some Americans, firearms are viewed as frightening and unsettling. For those individuals, gun ownership and use is not familiar and they can never see a desire to have one in their home. However, for some Americans, firearms are common parts of their history and culture. For these, they have grown up knowing about gun safety in hunting and sport shooting and they see them as safe in the hands of responsible owners and users.
Not all persons are responsible gun owners and users. Reasonable restrictions regarding the access of firearms by those who are criminal in their intent, mentally ill, or otherwise potentially dangerous to others are appropriate. But to broad brush the issue and negatively impact the millions of law abiding citizens who pose no threat to any innocent person is excessive and unreasonable. Laws currently exist to restrict access to firearms by those who pose a threat but the specifics of enforcement are sometimes lacking. Long ago the United States recognized the need to have special punishment capabilities for criminals who use firearms but likewise, enforcement is not consistent. 


For the reasons discussed above, the Texas Police Chiefs Association has concluded the following: 

1. Efforts and discussions should focus on the control of violence in society generally. Civility and restraint are qualities that should be valued in the public discourse at every level, especially exemplified by leaders. 


2. Although graphic representations and depictions of violence are easily put into context by the rational mind, one who struggles with mental illness may have more difficulty. 

3. Mental illness should be the primary focus in discussing acts of mass violence. A national discourse regarding the improvement of the systems in place to address mental illness should be a priority. 

4. Streamlining the process to effectively deal with mental health emergencies should be addressed nationwide. 

5. Emphasis should be placed on enforcing current firearms restrictions, especially the prosecution of criminals who use firearms in the commission of their crimes. 

6. Discussions regarding additional gun regulations should recognize that not all areas of the United States are alike. As a result, no legislation should unreasonably restrict one region because of the concerns of another. 

7. The Nation should be reminded that every criminal act that has shocked the American collective conscience in recent history was already by definition a crime. Laws previously written and passed were ignored by people bent on doing harm. 

Although there is much discussion to be had in regard to responding to these recent events, care must be taken to insure that bad policy doesn’t result from haste. The TPCA is a reasonable voice in these policy discussions, accurately representing the thoughts of the majority of Chiefs in Texas
Texas Police Chiefs Association President Chief Michael R. Gentry 

Brits begin push for gun rights

Poll Suggests Brits Want Handgun Ban Debate in Parliamentby Dylan Polk

We Yanks like to give the United Kingdom a hard time every once in a while for the country’s oppressive gun laws. While we have the inalienable right to own handguns for home protection, Brits aren’t afforded that freedom.
But if we’re to believe a recent poll by the British media, the Queen’s subjects may be pushing for a change in the nation’s firearms policies.
The British newspaper The Telegraph recently posted an online poll to determine which issue citizens would like to see debated in Parliament’s House of Commons.
According to The Telegraph, “Under Commons rules, any MP can introduce a bill, but only a few are ever debated. The ballot to decide which members get time for such debates was held on Thursday. James Wharton, the MP for Stockton South, came top of the ballot. … Now, it is over to you—vote below for the Bill you’d like to see debated in the Commons.”
Rounding up a list of six ideas proposed by readers—including term limits on Parliament members, a flat tax and even a ban on spitting in public—is a repeal of the U.K.’s ban on private handgun possession, a result of the Firearms Act of 1997.
The reasoning sounds awfully familiar:
 “After all, why should only criminals be ‘allowed’ to possess guns and shoot unarmed, defenseless citizens and police officers?” 
That’s a good point, one we’ve heard countless times from Americans countering the latest wave of gun control proposals across the states.
So how was that proposal received across the pond? Better than you’d think, actually; as of this post, the proposal has garnered 8,174 of 10,095 total votes—that’s 80.97 percent. While it’s tough to say a majority of citizens in the U.K. want their guns back, these numbers surely indicate that the debate is one worth having no matter where you live.

http://www.gunsandammo.com/2013/05/28/poll-suggests-brits-want-handgun-ban-debate-in-parliament/



Tuesday, May 28, 2013

New CHL law signed by Governor - becomes effective Sept 1 2013.


83(R) SB 864
Relating to a handgun proficiency course that is taken to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license.
5/24/2013 E Signed by the Governor

BILL ANALYSIS
C.S.S.B. 864
By: Campbell
Homeland Security & Public Safety
Committee Report (Substituted)
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Current law requires the handgun proficiency course for a concealed handgun license to consist of at least 10 and not more than 15 hours of curriculum instruction on weapons-related laws; handgun use, proficiency, and safety; proper handgun storage practices; and nonviolent dispute resolution, in addition to a physical demonstration of proficiency. Interested parties recognize that these licensing statutes were enacted over a decade ago when the course curriculum had not yet been finalized and note the discrepancy between statute-mandated course hours and the actual timed delivery of course curriculum. To address this discrepancy, C.S.S.B. 864 reduces the number of required classroom hours necessary to obtain or renew a concealed handgun license. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

C.S.S.B. 864 amends the Government Code to remove the requirement that a concealed handgun license holder who wishes to renew that license complete a continuing education course in handgun proficiency and to instead require completion of a handgun proficiency course required for obtaining an original concealed handgun license. The bill clarifies that the part of the handgun proficiency course that includes instruction on certain laws and safety and use procedures is the classroom instruction part of the course. The bill decreases from 10 to six the minimum number of hours of such instruction required to be included in the classroom instruction part of the course and removes the limit on the number of instruction hours. The bill clarifies that instruction on proficiency is not among the topics required to be included in the classroom instruction part of the course.

C.S.S.B. 864 authorizes the Department of Public Safety to offer online, or allow a qualified handgun instructor to offer online, the classroom instruction part of the handgun proficiency course for concealed handgun license holders seeking renewal.

C.S.S.B. 864 repeals Section 411.188(c), Government Code.


EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2013.

COMPARISON OF ORIGINAL AND SUBSTITUTE

While C.S.S.B. 864 may differ from the engrossed version in minor or nonsubstantive ways, the following comparison is organized and highlighted in a manner that indicates the substantial differences between the engrossed and committee substitute versions of the bill.
SENATE ENGROSSED
HOUSE COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE
SECTION 1.  Subsection (a), Section 411.185, Government Code, is amended to read as follows:

(a)  To renew a license, a license holder must:

(1)  complete a [continuing education course in] handgun proficiency course under Section 411.188(a) [411.188(c)] within the six-month period preceding:

(A)  the date of application for renewal, for a first or second renewal; and

(B)  the date of application for renewal or the date of application for the preceding renewal, for a third or subsequent renewal, to ensure that the license holder is not required to complete the course more than once in any 10-year period; and

(2)  submit to the department:

(A)  an application for renewal on a form provided by the department;

(B)  evidence of handgun proficiency, in the form and manner required by the department;

(C)  payment of a nonrefundable renewal fee as set by the department; and

(D)  one or more photographs of the applicant that meet the requirements of the department.

SECTION 1. Same as engrossed version except for recitation.

SECTION 2.  Subsections (a), (b), and (j), Section 411.188, Government Code, are amended to read as follows:

(a)  The director by rule shall establish minimum standards for handgun proficiency and shall develop a course to teach handgun proficiency and examinations to measure handgun proficiency.  The course to teach handgun proficiency is required for each person who seeks to obtain or renew a license and must contain training sessions divided into two parts.  One part of the course must be classroom instruction and the other part must be range instruction and an actual demonstration by the applicant of the applicant's ability to safely and proficiently use the applicable category of handgun.  An applicant must be able to demonstrate, at a minimum, the degree of proficiency that is required to effectively operate a handgun of .32 caliber or above.  The department shall distribute the standards, course requirements, and examinations on request to any qualified handgun instructor.

(b)  Only [a] qualified handgun instructors [instructor] may administer the classroom instruction part or the range instruction part of the [a] handgun proficiency course.  The classroom instruction part of the [handgun proficiency] course must include not less than four [at least 10] hours and not more than six [15] hours of instruction on:

(1)  the laws that relate to weapons and to the use of deadly force;

(2)  handgun use[, proficiency,] and safety;

(3)  nonviolent dispute resolution; and

(4)  proper storage practices for handguns with an emphasis on storage practices that eliminate the possibility of accidental injury to a child.

(j)  For license holders seeking to renew their licenses, the [The] department may offer online, or allow a qualified handgun instructor to offer online, the classroom instruction part of the handgun proficiency [continuing education instruction] course and the written section of the proficiency examination [required to renew a license].
SECTION 2.  Sections 411.188(a), (b), and (j), Government Code, are amended to read as follows:

(a)  The director by rule shall establish minimum standards for handgun proficiency and shall develop a course to teach handgun proficiency and examinations to measure handgun proficiency.  The course to teach handgun proficiency is required for each person who seeks to obtain or renew a license and must contain training sessions divided into two parts.  One part of the course must be classroom instruction and the other part must be range instruction and an actual demonstration by the applicant of the applicant's ability to safely and proficiently use the applicable category of handgun.  An applicant must be able to demonstrate, at a minimum, the degree of proficiency that is required to effectively operate a handgun of .32 caliber or above.  The department shall distribute the standards, course requirements, and examinations on request to any qualified handgun instructor.

(b)  Only [a] qualified handgun instructors [instructor] may administer the classroom instruction part or the range instruction part of the [a] handgun proficiency course. The classroom instruction part of the [handgun proficiency] course must include at least six [10] hours [and not more than 15 hours] of instruction on:

(1)  the laws that relate to weapons and to the use of deadly force;

(2)  handgun use[, proficiency,] and safety;

(3)  nonviolent dispute resolution; and

(4)  proper storage practices for handguns with an emphasis on storage practices that eliminate the possibility of accidental injury to a child.

(j)  For license holders seeking to renew their licenses, the [The] department may offer online, or allow a qualified handgun instructor to offer online, the classroom instruction part of the handgun proficiency [continuing education instruction] course and the written section of the proficiency examination [required to renew a license].

SECTION 3.  Subsection (c), Section 411.188, Government Code, is repealed.

SECTION 3.  Substantially the same as engrossed version


SECTION 4.  The change in law made by this Act applies only to an application to obtain or renew a license to carry a concealed handgun submitted on or after the effective date of this Act.  An application submitted before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in effect when the application was submitted, and the former law is continued in effect for that purpose.
SECTION 4. Same as engrossed version.

SECTION 5.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2013.

SECTION 5. Same as engrossed version.

TX CHLs will soon be able to carry any category of handgun

The Texas Legislature has changed the law for concealed handgun license holders to allow them to carry any category of weapon.

Lawmakers gave the bill final passage on Sunday and the measure now goes to the governor for his signature.

Previously, people licensed to have concealed handguns could only carry the type of pistol they used during their training and qualification.

The new bill allows license holders to carry any type of handgun, regardless of what category of weapon they used to qualify.

The Legislature has already passed a law reducing the number or hours of training needed to receive a conc
ealed handgun license in Texas.

http://www.themonitor.com/news/state/article_62a02649-7bc2-54f2-a86f-eb191a39a881.html

Intruder wearing body armor shot in face by neighbor while robbing residents



An alleged intruder who police say was shot dead by a vigilant neighbor on the West Side this week was identified by the medical examiner Saturday as Joseph Howenstein, 24.

Police said the neighbor will not face charges in the fatal shooting, which occurred about 12:30 a.m. Thursday in the 8900 block of Hambledon Drive.

Howenstein was wearing a bulletproof vest and military-style clothing, police said, when he approached the home with a gun and attempted to rob the residents. The neighbor heard the commotion and came to the rescue, police said.

Police said the man, believed to be in his mid-20s, was dressed in military-style attire and began making demands to people inside of a duplex and was later shot by a neighbor.

The intruder said he planned to “get someone” at the home before he pointed the gun at a group of people inside, demanding money and a TV.

As the intruder walked out of the home's garage, a neighbor next door who heard the commotion went outside and shot him at least once in the face.

When police arrived, the intruder's white car was parked in the middle of the street with the trunk open, and there was a box labeled with the words “anthrax inside,”

Texas law allows deadly force against intruders and thieves to protect lives and property — even a third person's.

Deadly force is justified when immediate intervention is necessary to protect a third person, according to the Texas Penal Code.

Deadly force also is justified against those who appear to be committing crimes ranging from assault, robbery and even criminal mischief, or if they are fleeing after committing such offenses.

“I'm a firm believer in having guns in the house,” said Leech, who keeps one in his own home for protection. “I like being able to protect my two kids and my wife.

“I don't want to kill anybody,” he said. “But it's me or them.”



http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local_news/article/No-charges-for-neighbor-in-fatal-shooting-4542212.php

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/local_news/article/Alleged-robber-shot-killed-by-neighbor-is-ID-d-4549182.php

Illinois could get concealed carry


Gun owners could carry concealed weapons in Illinois, the last state in the nation to prohibit it, under legislation that swept through the House Friday with the backing of the powerful Democratic speaker from Chicago, a city torn by violence despite what critics claim are the nation's toughest firearms restrictions.
The historic 85-30 vote would allow the carrying of concealed guns, a legislative task compelled by a federal appeals court ruling and precipitated by House Speaker Michael Madigan's turnabout.

But its obliteration of all local gun laws, including Chicago's ban on assault-style weapons, drew immediate resistance from Gov. Pat Quinn, a Chicago Democrat like Madigan. Quinn said the proposal endangers the public by pre-empting local gun laws, which have nothing to do with concealed carry, the only subject covered by the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals' decree

The measure, sponsored by ardent gun-rights advocate Rep. Brandon Phelps, a Democrat from Harrisburg in deep southern Illinois, outlines a so-called "shall issue" law, meaning law enforcement officials would be required to issue permits to qualified gun owners. Only about 10 states, such as New York, have more restrictive "may issue" laws, which give police more discretion to deny permission.

"Criminals are cowards," said Rep. Mike Bost, a southern Illinois Republican. "If they know there's an opportunity they're going to get caught or get shot — because they don't like a fair fight — they're not going to commit the crime."

The plan would require the Illinois State Police to issue a carry permit to anyone who gets the required 16 hours of gun-safety training — most in the nation — passes a background check and pays a $150 fee. Local police or a county sheriff could object to an application, which a statewide review panel of criminal-justice and mental-health experts would review.

Despite the way the current idea mimics Phelps' earlier plan, the speaker said it significantly broadens the places that would be off-limits to guns, including all of the places Chicago officials requested, such as mass-transit buses and trains, parks and street festivals.

Local school officials would no longer be able to decide whether they wanted to allow guns. Private property owners could ban guns on their land.

If Illinois blows the June 9 deadline without a law, cities and counties could enact their own gun restrictions — or none at all, supporters say, creating "more chaos and havoc on our streets," Republican Rep. Jim Durkin of Western Springs said.


http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/05/25/illinois-lawmakers-approve-gun-plan-opposed-by-governor/

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Victim told by 911 "No authorities available to send" because of budget cuts.



An Oregon woman was told by a 911 dispatcher that authorities wouldn’t be able be able to help her as her assailant broke into her place because of budget cuts.

Oregon Public Radio reports that an unidentified woman called 911 during a weekend in August 2012 while the assailant was breaking into her place. Her call was forwarded to Oregon State Police because of lay-offs at the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office only allows the department to be open Monday through Friday.

“Uh, I don’t have anybody to send out there,” the 911 dispatcher told the woman. “You know, obviously, if he comes inside the residence and assaults you, can you ask him to go away?"

The victim told the dispatcher that Bellah previously attacked her and left her hospitalized a few weeks prior to the latest incident. The dispatcher stayed on the phone with the woman for more than 10 minutes before the sexual assault took place.

“Once again it’s unfortunate you guys don’t have any law enforcement out there,” the dispatcher said, according to Oregon Public Radio.

The woman responded: “Yeah, it doesn’t matter, if he gets in the house I’m done.”

Police say Bellah choked the woman and sexually assaulted her.

“There isn’t a day that goes by that we don’t have another victim,” Josephine County Sheriff Gil Gilberson told Oregon Public Radio. “If you don’t pay the bill, you don’t get the service.”

The sheriff’s department had to cut 23 deputies and the entire major crimes unit after it lost a multi-million dollar federal subsidy, according to Oregon Public Radio. There are now only six deputies left.

The sheriff’s department even put out a press release warning domestic violence victims to “consider relocating to an area with adequate law enforcement services.”

http://seattle.cbslocal.com/2013/05/23/911-dispatcher-tells-woman-about-to-be-sexually-assaulted-there-are-no-cops-to-help-her-due-to-budget-cuts/

TX Campus Carry bill fails to pass


On the last day to pass bills out of the Senate, the campus carry bill is
stalled with six votes short of the necessary number to bring it up for
debate.




http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/2013/05/campus-carry-lacks-votes-to-be-debated-in-senate-on-final-day-to-pass-bills.html/

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Awesome: Colorado Sheriff speaks out






It is fundamentally wrong to be increasing restrictions on those who have committed no crime while easing the punishment for the most viscous killers in history.  That should alert all of us that the present legislative majority is not acting for the long term interest of our states.  And they are not truly committed to reducing crime, but simply promoting their social agendas.

We firmly believe that the citizens ... are being mislead by politicians who promise that restricting and punishing law abiding citizens who have done nothing wrong will somehow change the actions of those using and obtaining guns illegally.    We cannot stop criminals by punishing the 99.9% of honest people.



https://www.youtube.com/embed/mlwgZzeq8oI?feature=player_embedded


The lies told by gun control liars



Gun control advocates are compulsive liars. They have to be because the truth doesn’t support their agenda. Even the names of gun control groups – suggesting “violence policy,” “violence prevention,” and “gun safety” – are all lies. And the term “gun control” itself is a lie. Virtually everything coming from gun control advocates today is a lie.
I’m not talking about simple distortions or cases of “my statistics are better than your statistics,” these are intentional, calculated, bald-faced deceptions, foisted on the American public by ideologically motivated zealots trying to force an agenda of citizen disarmament and government control. That’s not to say that everyone who supports gun control is driven by the same ideology, or that there are no honest, passionate, idealistic, true believers among the ranks of gun control advocates. There are some very good, honest, sincere people who promote gun control, but unfortunately these misguided souls are steeped in emotion and inculcated with the never ending lies of the professional gun haters.
Let’s dissect some of the lies:
• Over 90% (almost 90%, close to 90%) of Americans support “universal background checks,” as do various large percentages of gun owners and NRA members.
Anyone with a brain should realize that these statistics were fraudulent based solely on the fact that there is almost nothing that 90% of Americans agree on. But this lie has gotten bigger as time has gone by. More recent polls place support for any gun control at less than 50%, and approval of the Senate’s rejection of expanded background checks at almost 40% – yet gun control advocates and politicians continue to declare that 90% of Americans support universal background checks. It is a lie.
• Almost 40% of firearms sales occur without a background check.
That lie was a stretch when it was presented in late December, and it was soon declared to be a distortion by the fact check column in the Washington Post – garnering “2 Pinocchios.” The bogus statistic was then called out by several other watchdog centers, but Obama and company have continued to preach it as Gospel, right up to this very day. That earned Mr. Obama an extra “Pinocchio” from the Post. When you say something that’s not true, even after you know it’s not true, that’s called a lie.
• Gun control is needed to “make our children and our communities safer.
This presumes that guns serve only evil purposes, and that passing laws prevents criminal violence. There has never been a supportable study proving, or even strongly suggesting, that gun control does anything to reduce criminal violence or even suicide. Reviews of existing literature going back to the 1970s have consistently found no positive connection between gun control and crime. On the other hand, there are several peer-reviewed studies which show that guns in private hands are used to stop crimes much more often than they are used to commit crimes, and that the prevalence of guns appears to result in reduced violent crime. Claims of improved safety with gun control are lies.
• About 30,000 lives are lost to “gun violence” each year in the US, and; “Thirteen children a day are killed in gun violence.”
The 30,000 number is based predominantly on suicides. Suicide is not “gun violence” and gun control doesn’t reduce suicide. Guns are much more prevalent in the US than Canada, and are used more frequently in suicides here than there, yet the suicide rate in the US is only slightly higher. Reducing guns doesn’t reduce suicide – saying it does is a lie.
The “13 a day” statistic includes “children” up to 24. The peak age range for criminal activity is 16 to 27. That is also a peak age range for suicide. Virtually all of the guns used by these young people are obtained illegally. The 30,000 and 13 a day claims are intentional lies.
• There is an epidemic of violent crime and mass murder sweeping the nation.
No there isn’t. Crime is at its lowest rate in decades. It has gone down as gun ownership and concealed carry have gone up. Atrocities like Sandy Hook and the Batman movie massacre tend to run in copycat cycles based largely on media play. There is no growing epidemic. Claims otherwise are lies.
Gun control groups are based in lies. They call themselves “violence prevention” and “gun safety” groups even though the only violence prevention and gun safety policies they espouse are restrictions on legal access to firearms. They lie about who they are, what they stand for, and what they want. They use lies to press their agenda, and they lie about what that agenda is and what impact it would have. They are liars through and through, and it is ridiculous that the media and politicians promote and parrot the lies.
The truth is, Gun Control Doesn’t.


Permission to reprint or post this article in its entirety is hereby granted provided this credit and link is included. Text is available atwww.FirearmsCoalition.org. To receive The Firearms Coalition’s bi-monthly newsletter, The Knox Hard Corps Report, write to PO Box 1761, Buckeye, AZ 85326.


http://www.downrange.tv/blog/the-gun-control-lie/22782/

New TX Bill Lets Police Take Guns From Those in "Mental Crisis"



New Texas bill lets police take guns away from those who have already been court ordered to receive inpatient psychiatric treatment, in which case federal law would prohibit them from possessing a firearm.  It also sets up a procedure for returning them to the owner safely.

The measure has passed both house and senate, and now goes to Perry, who can sign the bill, veto it or allow it to become law without his signature.


Monday, May 20, 2013

Open Carry Protest March - Temple, June 1st

We will be gathering for a legal armed open carry march in response to the Temple Police Department violating the Second and Fourth Amendment rights of Active Duty MSGT Christopher J. Grisham. Please join us all. We will be exercising our rights as free men and women. 




Be part of the solution. All permits and armed march route has been approved and coordinated with the city and local authorities. Come out for music, great speakers, food and a march around the police station.
When:  June 1st
Where: Temple, TX
Venue: Community Market 212 S. Main St.
Time:  10:00am-4:00pm
“While out hiking with my son through backcountry roads to help him earn his Eagle Scout rank, I was illegally arrested and disarmed without cause. I was thrown in jail and my lawfully owned weapons were confiscated without receipt or notice,” -Grisham
That’s right! Get your guns and get to Temple, TX. They forgot we have rights and we must remind them. If we don’t stand up for fellow Texans today then we will stand alone when it happens to us in our hometown. Just a reminder on legal open carry in Texas: It must be a long gun and can be strapped or hung on your person. Holding it could be considered “calculated to alarm” and this will be a peaceful march. We will be taking up donations for the 2nd Amendment Legal
Defense Fund for Christopher J. Grisham. Anyone that wants to help with the event contact Murdoch atmurdoch@dontcomply.com



Speakers:Christopher J. Grisham
Jay Stang – Oath Keepers State Chapter President for Texas
Mike Vanderboegh -THREE%ER
Black Rain Ordinance -Presentation of gun to C.J. Grisham
Murdoch Pizgatti – Dontcomply.com
Statement from Rep. Ralph Sheffield (R)
Statement from Senator Ted Cruz 
Music:Nolan Pick Band 
Food:Fat Boys BBQ 
Facebook Event Page HEREDownload FLYER HEREDownload Half Page Flyer HEREDownload Press Release HERE 
MOΛΩN ΛABE

SAFETY:For those concerned about safety we will be implementing the “Solidarity Of Safety” (S.O.S.) program at the event. Well qualified people will ask to perform a chamber check and flag it with a red straw half inserted into the bolt. This of course is voluntary and does not render your weapon useless like a zip tie at a gun show. We ask everyone proficient in guns to do this as well as a good example for the new people. Not having a bullet chambered will prevent any unwanted fire. Thanks for helping this event to be remembered for the right reasons.

http://www.dontcomply.com/comeandtakeittemple/


Thought for the day


With all this "Gun Control" talk, I haven't heard one politician say how they plan to take guns from criminals; Just from law abiding citizens.

- Source unknown

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Burglar shot after locking homeowner inside his own gun closet


'Dumb' house burglar shot after locking homeowner inside his own GUN CLOSET  
By SNEJANA FARBEROV


The victim of an armed home invasion in Houston has turned the tables on three brazen intruders after they stuffed him into a closet that turned out to be the place where he stores his gun.

Police say it all started at around 2pm Tuesday when three men broke into a home in the 8200 block of Braeburn Valley Drive and assaulted the resident.

After a brief scuffle, the hapless perpetrators shoved the man into a closet, not knowing that there was a gun in there

When the homeowner thought the burglars had left, he went downstairs, carrying his gun in case the suspects were still around, the Houston Chronicle reported.

On the first floor, the man confronted one of his assailant and the two exchanged gunfire, according to police.

The resident, who shares the house with his parents, escaped unharmed, but the armed suspect was much the worse for wear after being struck in the shoulder and leg.

He fled on foot down the street, but did not get far before he collapsed. His two suspected accomplices took off from the scene in a Chevrolet Tahoe.

The wounded man, believed to be in his 20s, was heard crying out in pain as he lay bleeding on the pavement. He was taken to Ben Taub Hospital for treatment.

Pro-gun stance: Neighbor Craig Gaddis said there have been at least two other burglaries in the area, and he and other local residents are staying armed and vigilant.

According to neighbors, at least two other local homes have been targeted by robbers recently. The latest incident happened a week ago when burglars kicked in the door on a nearby house.
Craig Gaddis, who told the paper that he owns several handguns, said he and his neighbors are certain that the home invasions are related.

‘What happened today is exactly what guns are supposed to do - to protect your home and defend your life and your family,’ Gaddis said.

Police say the homeowner who shot the burglary suspect will not be face charges.
Texas has a self-defense law based on the 'castle doctrine.' The legislation has a 'stand your ground' clause, meaning the person using physical or deadly force against an attacker does not have a duty to retreat.

Deadly force is permissible under the law when a person is attempting to defend himself from an armed  attacker.


http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2325629/Dumb-house-burglar-shot-locking-homeowner-inside-GUN-CLOSET.html

DC trying to discourage gun ownership by making it prohibitively expensive



If you can't ban them, and you can't confiscate them, then try pricing them out of the market.  Make it cost prohibitive to own them.

When they did this with another constitutional right, voting, by requiring registration fees, there was outrage.  Where is the outrage now?

The liberal city council is trying again to discourage gun ownership by making it prohibitively expensive.
On Thursday, the D.C. Council will hold a hearing on a bill proposed by Mary M. Cheh to require gun owners to buy liability insurance. The legislation, introduced in March, would force potential gun owners to get a policy of at least  $250,000 before the city would consider their applications to register a firearm.

Councilwoman Mary M. Cheh does not seem to care that this kind of insurance doesn’t even exist.

Willem O. Rijksen, The vice president of public affairs for the American Insurance Association told me that, “We oppose proposals that would mandate gun liability insurance as property-casualty insurance does not and cannot cover intentional criminal behavior.”

Accidents are already covered under homeowners’ insurance policies.

The kicker of this scheme is that the gun owner would be assumed liable under the law for a lost or stolen gun unless it was reported to the police. So a bad guy can break into my home, take my gun, shoot a bunch of people before I get home — and I’m financially liable.

If the gun owner lets the policy lapse, the right to keep arms — i.e. the registration — will be immediately revoked by the city.

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/may/15/miller-dc-restarts-gun-control-frenzy-mandatory-li/?utm_source=feedly

The bill would mandate that prospective gun owners maintain at least a $250,000 policy. The policy would cover damages from negligent acts or intentional acts that aren’t undertaken in self-defense.

A handful of states are considering similar measures, but none has passed such a law.

http://washington.cbslocal.com/2013/05/16/d-c-considers-mandatory-250k-insurance-policy-for-gun-buyers/

Friday, May 10, 2013

Breaking News: Senators live mike reveals confiscation agenda


Not only does this show that the senators have a complete contempt for the Second amendment, and for the GOD GIVEN AND INALIENABLE rights of individual citizens to own and bear arms, but that they are willing to come and get our guns.

“Confiscate, Confiscate, Confiscate”by Sebastian
NJ SENATORS’ TRUE VIEW OF GUN OWNERS REVEALED BY HOT MICROPHONE FOLLOWING YESTERDAY’S HEARING  
Call the Senate Majority Office Immediately to Express Your Outrage
And Demand That Monday’s Bill Package be Held
   
An astute person listening to the official audio recording of yesterday’s Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee hearing noticed that the official recording continued following conclusion of the hearing.  The discussion that was caught, apparently among several senators and staff, is outrageous, and reveals legislators’ true view of gun owners.
A YouTube video with an excerpt of that recording has been posted here.  The following lines can be heard in the recording:
“We needed a bill that was going to confiscate, confiscate, confiscate.”
“They [gun owners] want to keep the guns out of the hands of the bad guys, but they don’t have any regulations to do it.”
“They don’t care about the bad guys.  All they want to do is have their little guns and do whatever they want with them.” 
“That’s the line they’ve developed.” 
The discussion appears to be among Senator Loretta Weinberg (D37), Senator Sandra Cunningham (D31), Senator Linda Greenstein(D14), and at least one member of Senate Democratic staff. 
This discussion can also clearly be heard at the end of the official audio recording, beginning at 1:52:30, currently available here (find Thursday, May 9 from the menu, then click “listen”). It is possible that the official recording will be sanitized following release of this alert, and the official YouTube video could be deleted, so be sure to listen to it promptly. 
The discussion reveals absolute contempt for the Second Amendment and those who exercise it, as well as complete ignorance of the fact that gun rights organizations like ANJRPC have long advocated for clear and specific legislation punishing criminals who misuse firearms, instead of misguided legislation (like the bills currently being pushed by Senate Democrats) that demonizes hardware.  Senator Loretta Weinberg is the chief proponent of the anti-gun legislation being moved through the Senate. 
In advance of Monday’s full Senate floor vote, please immediately call AND fax the Senate Majority Office, tell them you are outraged by the misguided, disparaging, and clueless comments of those pushing the anti-gun bill package, and demand that Senate Democratic leadership hold the entire package of anti-gun bills currently scheduled for consideration by the full Senate on Monday, May 13. 
SENATE MAJORITY OFFICE
Phone: 609-847-3700
Fax: 609-633-7254

You know what would help prevent gun owners from always being paranoid that gun control activists and politicians were after their guns? Not actually being after our guns. Just because your paranoid doesn’t mean they aren’t out to get you.


http://www.pagunblog.com/2013/05/10/confiscate-confiscate-confiscate/

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

CCW Stops Milwaukee Robbery / store reverses anti-gun policy / CCW still faced legal hurtles

BY GUN DIGEST NEWS
Please visit gundigest.com


On Jan. 30, 2012, Dierre Cotton allegedly attempted to rob an Aldi grocery store in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with a sawed off rifle. A customer carrying a concealed handgun changed the outcome of events for the better - and stopped the robbery spree (it was reportedly Cotton's third robbery in so many days).

The suspect was stopped by Wisconsin concealed carry holder Nazir Al-Mujaahid. Interestingly, Al-Mujaahid was carrying his firearm inside the store despite the property being posted against CCW. The DA said it would be "inappropriate" to charge him. In response, Aldi wiped the egg off its face and has since reversed its anti-gun policy.  Concealed carry is now allowed in the company's Wisconsin stores.

According to Al-Mujaahid:
LESSON Learned: Always carry fully loaded and ready to use in an instant! That night the firearm was carried without a round in the chamber and with the safety on which were the longest milliseconds of my life. 
Careful analysis shows at 1:22/2:28 the robber was engaged by customer while thug was pointing his rifle at someone AFTER having the money! He didn't simply leave. At 1:47 you'll see the thug point at customer while making his exit.
Following the failed robbery attempt, both suspects involved were arrested.



Video: CCW Holder Thwarts Milwaukee Robbery
While the armed suspect (lower-right) is busy emptying out the drawer and intimidating customers, Al-Mujaahid (upper-left), who had recently obtained his Wisconsin concealed weapons permit, carefully moves into position to intervene. 


Did You Notice Something?

One thing that struck me about the video is the contrast between how the concealed carry practitioner reacts versus those who are unarmed. The CCW citizen has war-gamed out this very scenario, planned for it, mentally accepted it as a possibility and is prepared to take some action. He or she has options. The others don't.

The drama further deepened when the Milwaukee PD confiscated Al-Mujaahid's gun and refused to return it. As pressure began to mount following outcry by the Wisconsin gun rights community and many legal threats, it was finally returned. It's a good reminder that even if you survive a gunfight and the DA doesn't maliciously prosecute you, expect many months of headaches and hassle for doing the right thing.

Do the right thing anyway. But don't expect a hero's welcome by our upside-down society and courts.

Did you find this story as eye-opening as I did? It really underscores the need to know the legal pitfalls and responsibilities associated with armed self-defense.


Monday, May 6, 2013

The 21 foot rule

I've heard about the "21 foot rule" before, but this video demonstrates it very well.  Remember, that 21 feet is recommended as a *minimum* safe distance for a defender that is *alert* and ready for action.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=9igSoJHEdUo

Sunday, May 5, 2013

House approves campus carry, other gun rights laws


BY MIKE WARD - AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF

On a day when the nation’s strongest Second Amendment lobby group was gathered in Houston, the Texas House on Saturday tentatively approved a dozen pro-gun bills — including a highly controversial measure that would legalize concealed weapons in buildings on college campuses.
Another bill would thwart enforcement of new federal gun restrictions in Texas, a move intended to target firearms laws proposed by the Obama administration.

Saturday’s votes were on a wide array of legislation that would provide state training for new school marshals to protect students from shooting attacks, exempt concealed weapons licensees living in remote rural areas from electronic fingerprinting rules, allow for an inadvertent display of a concealed pistol, shorten the amount of classroom instruction required to obtain a concealed handgun permit and allow for renewal of handgun licenses on the Internet.

While most passed quickly with voice votes, disagreement erupted over the so-called campus carry bill and federal restrictions.

The first, House Bill 972, will allow concealed handgun licensees to carry handguns inside campus buildings — from dorms to classrooms to sporting arenas — unless a public school or university specifically prohibits it. Private schools would not have to allow them.

Under current law, concealed handguns are prohibited in campus buildings, though they are allowed on campus grounds. Universities can opt to allow concealed handguns on campus, as Texas A&M University has done, but few others have followed suit.

The change has faced strong opposition from officials at the University of Texas and other public colleges and universities, where officials fear it could promote violence.

Public hearings on the issue in recent months have been packed, with emotions running high on both sides.

“This primarily covers adults, faculty and employees,” said state Rep. Allen Fletcher, R-Cypress, the author of the bill. “It will not result in a large population of undergraduates carrying concealed weapons” on campus.

“The idea that this bill would result in increased violence is unfounded,” said Fletcher, a former police officer.

In all, he said, only about 9,300 of the state’s 584,000 handgun licensees are between the ages of 21 and 25 — and many of them are military veterans.

Opponents tried unsuccessfully five times to stop passage of the bill with parliamentary challenges. Amendments were also defeated that would have exempted universities within 75 miles of the Texas-Mexico border.

But when approval came, it was by voice vote, meaning that the representatives’ individual votes were not recorded. Saturday’s vote was followed by light applause and a standing ovation from several gun supporters sitting in the gallery. The vote also reportedly drew applause in Houston, where the National Rifle Association is holding its annual convention.

Despite the preliminary House approval — it must be voted on again before it is finally passed — the measure faces likely death in the Senate, where a similar bill has stalled in committee and where even supporters say they do not expect the upper chamber to approve it.

It was a different story two years ago, when the Senate approved campus carry after it was attached to a university spending bill in the final days of the legislative session. That measure died in the House.

Saturday was the first time in recent years that the campus carry measure has passed the lower chamber.

The Firearms Protection Act, HB 1076, was also approved on a voice vote after brisk debate over whether the measure was enforceable and constitutional.

The measure would prohibit the enforcement of any federal firearms restrictions on ownership, accessories and ammunition enacted after January 2013. State and local officers who do so could face a misdemeanor charge.

Rep. Steve Toth, R-The Woodlands, the author, said the bill is necessary to prevent an erosion of Second Amendment rights through new edicts from Washington. Rep. Lon Burnam, D-Fort Worth, disagreed, calling the measure “unenforceable and unconstitutional.”

“This bill is not about the Second Amendment; it’s about making a political statement,” said Rep. Chris Turner, D-Grand Prairie, who tried to attach an amendment to prohibit Attorney General Greg Abbott from using taxpayer money to defend the new law.

“This is a waste of state resources,” Turner said.

The House disagreed, tabling his amendment 82-33 and then passing the bill with a loud voice vote.

CORRECTION: This story has been updated to say that private schools would not have to allow concealed handgun licensees to carry handguns inside campus buildings under House Bill 972.


http://www.mystatesman.com/news/news/state-regional-govt-politics/house-approves-campus-carry-other-gun-rights-laws/nXg9y/?icmp=statesman_internallink_textlink_apr2013_statesmanstubtomystatesman_launch

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

NOTICE TO ALL GUN OWNERS



I don't know if this is true or not, or if the contact information is valid.  I only received it in email.  And we all know what kind of cr*p can go around in email.  So take with a pinch salt...



NOTICE TO ALL GUN OWNERS!!!!
Tagging a Gun Owner's Vehicle

If you own a gun and therefore go to gun ranges or gun shops, you might want to read the attached and keep this in mind…..and share the word with your friends/family. 

TAGGING GUN OWNERS VEHICLES PSA WARNING
Gun lovers public service announcement: While I was in a Texas gun store today, my car was tagged on the wheel in the parking lot. The gangs do this on wheels or bumpers at gun stores, shooting ranges, gun shows etc. Later when you are parked at a restaurant, hotel, or other location that’s less well guarded or under video surveillance, other gang members spot the marker and break into the car for a quick gun grab. This is so RAMPANT in San Antonio where we were for a National shoot this summer, the Sheriff of Bexar County came out to brief the 400 participants of our competition. Too bad three teams had already been victimized the first day. This is the first I’ve heard of this in Texas.

Please pass this info along to your 2nd amendment list. Daily check your car, truck or motor home for unusual painted dots, marks, check marks or other strange looking symbols that are not normal to your type vehicle. It could prevent you from being a victim of robbery, or even save your life if you catch the thief in the act.

This next comment from a Gun Site instructor:

I don’t know how widespread this is becoming, but the info regarding the NSCA Nationals in San Antonio is correct, as all of us who compete in sporting clays know. Competitors there were having their vehicles marked with a small adhesive dot on the rear license plate or rear bumper, then followed for miles and having their vehicles quickly and efficiently broken in to when parked for lunch etc.

Some crews were working the parking lot at the Nationals itself. 27 high end shotguns were taken there recently. They know when 1400 shooters with high $ competition guns are in town.

BTW I shot with a young man who was trying out a new gun at the Nationals. He and his father lost all their guns and equipment while making a quick stop for lunch at a BBQ place in Corpus Christi the month before. 

Commander Raul F. PerezCicero Police Department-Patrol DivisionOfc: 708/652-2130 Ext: 282Fax: 708/656-9019Wk Cell: 708/514-1645