tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44645041013755268142024-02-23T01:45:35.728-06:00Steel on targetMusings about life, liberty and corruption.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-71660976477510673472023-01-20T17:15:00.003-06:002023-01-20T17:16:49.585-06:00I'll just leave this here for now...<p><a href="https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/local/illinois-assault-weapon-ban-lawsuit-judge-ruling/63-a326b053-d44d-4f50-8260-59f06561d683">Temporary Restraining Order Granted! </a></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-84970594570309716882019-03-04T22:44:00.000-06:002019-03-04T22:44:51.579-06:002A Town Hall, March 4, Enfield<span style="color: orange;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="color: orange;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="color: red;"><b>We will NOT comply!</b> </span><br />
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That was the tone of tonight's town hall meeting in tiny Enfield, IL.<br />
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The meeting was well attended, with reports of 400 + folks signing in. Several were from surrounding counties including Edwards, Wayne, and Gallatin. There may have been other counties represented but I had confirmed contact with folks from those three. There were also several law enforcement officials from other counties as well as at least one officer from District 19 ISP (I'm assuming in an unofficial capacity as I know the officer lives in White county and wasn't in uniform).<br />
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Speaking this evening were <a href="https://www.baileyforillinois.com/">Representative Darren Bailey </a>(R, 109th), <a href="http://www.dalerighter.com/">Senator Dale Righter</a> (R, 55th), <a href="http://www.whitecounty-il.gov/states-attorney.aspx">White County State's Attorney Denton Aud</a>, <a href="https://whitecountysheriff.org/">White County Sheriff Doug Maier</a>, as well as Mike and Valinda Rowe (<a href="http://illinoiscarry.com/">Illinois Carry</a> and <a href="https://www.isra.org/">ISRA</a>).<br />
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After a brief welcome and introductions, Rep. Bailey opened the meeting with prayer followed by Valinda leading us in a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. (That's how we do things down here in the parts of IL that are still America)<br />
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Valinda spoke about past lawsuits that were important to Concealed Carry and gun ownership in IL and the importance of being informed. She gave excellent instructions on signing up for alerts from Illinoiscarry.com and how to log in for the discussion forums to help coordinate with like minded folks.<br />
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Rep. Bailey had the stage at this point and mentioned that he has three Chicago Reps that have committed to spending some time in the area this summer in order to learn about the vast differences between their home and ours. I thought this was a great plan and I hope they hold to that commitment, it's much better than simply arguing with them and lets them see what culture outside of the city is like, as well as the poor state of our infrastructure. He went on to mention the effectiveness of phone calls and emails to other Reps that introduce bills and/or sit on different committees. The "per-mile" tax and the "No guns in Churches" bills being two examples that have been pulled due to large amounts of negative feedback.<br />
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Rep. Bailey ended his segment by assuring everyone in attendance that if SB107 ("Assault Weapons" ban) were to pass, that he will not register his own firearms. This resulted in a large applause as you might expect.<br />
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Senator Righter took the podium next and expressed the need to contact members of the Senate Judiciary Committee in order to pass along our opposition to SB107. He stressed that respect was key in this as being rude would just cause them to ignore the pleas. I agree with this but would add that one can be firm and respectful at the same time. The folks that push these bills don't expect a coordinated resistance and we need to show them just that.<br />
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Sen. Righter did go on to say that he feels SB107 is an Unconstitutional and inappropriate bill and that he would fight it as such. He reminded everyone that a basic distrust in government is exactly what led to the Bill of Rights in the first place and bills like this are a perfect example of government overreach.<br />
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Next up was White County State's Attorney, Denton Aud. Mr. Aud spent some time discussing the discretion that is afforded to the State's Attorney's office and that his job is to pursue justice rather than simply prosecute crimes. His oath states that he is to uphold the Constitution of the United States and to protect the people that have elected him. He feels that these proposed laws are at odds with the U.S. Constitution and, after discussion with the Sheriff and Police Chiefs in White, he will not prosecute a person in White County for simple violation of a law like SB107, if they are an otherwise law-abiding citizen. Mr. Aud received a standing ovation.<br />
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Sheriff Doug Maier took the stage briefly and reinforced that he and other LEO in White will not arrest for a violation of SB107, given that the citizen is otherwise law-abiding. (Note: he is referring to his Deputies and other local PDs, not the ISP, as he can't speak for them)<br />
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At this point the floor was opened for questions, which were general in nature and answered fairly concisely. One attendee asked about the new regulations for gun shops, SA Aud stated that IL State Regulation of a business was not Unconstitutional as far as he could tell. Mike and Valinda Rowe mentioned that the law is being examined in detail for any cracks that can be exploited with a lawsuit but that none have yet been found.<br />
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I felt that the meeting was informative and thought that the speakers all did a very good job and were reassuring, particularly for those living in White County. Of course, Sen. Righter said it best...we need to stop SB107 from ever becoming law, rather than discussing how to avoid prosecution if it does become law.<br />
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You'll forgive me for the blandness, I'm much more accustomed to tossing out my own thoughts rather than reporting things (if you can call this reporting).<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-25252749104678856362019-01-30T13:05:00.001-06:002019-01-31T12:59:34.198-06:00Illinois doubles down on stupid Illinois...there's something in the water. <br />
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For those readers not familiar with Illinois, it's really two states: one that is basically Chicago/Cook County and its collar counties (<i>mostly</i> "left leaning"), the other is roughly everything south of I-80 (<i>mostly</i> "right leaning") which is typically labeled as "downstate". Of course, this is a generalization as we know there are pockets of liberalism in "downstate" (Champaign County, for instance) and vice-versa. Further, there are some "liberals" who own firearm as well....so lets not get too wrapped up in the labels.<br />
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Sadly, the population of Cook County, etc. is enough that the entire remainder of the state can think one way and get overruled in an election. The last Gubernatorial race found a few more pockets in support of the democratic candidate as people were rightfully fed up with Gov. Rauner's ineffectiveness.<br />
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Those of us in "downstate" IL knew that the relatively stable, though not ideal, situation for firearms ownership would take a negative turn when Gov. J.B. Pritzker was elected. As it turns out, we underestimated the slope of that downward curve and how quickly the Chicago pols would act.<br />
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Yeah, they're swinging for the fences.<br />
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First, they held a bill that they knew Gov. Rauner would veto and passed it off to new Gov. Pritsker shortly after being seated. Seems like dirty pool to me but I'm no expert on that stuff, I expect it to be challenged in court.<br />
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This bill was signed and has now become <a href="http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/publicacts/fulltext.asp?Name=100-1178">Public Act 100-1178</a>, it requires state level licensing of firearms dealers and includes licensing fees, video camera requirements (video of all doors, all inventory, as well as all transactions....), video storage requirements (90 days minimum), inspection requirements, and so on. Video storage can get expensive in a hurry, just ask any number of small police departments that can't afford to store body cam footage.<br />
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Besides all that, the BATFE already controls firearms dealers at the federal level and we know that criminals with records don't go to gun shops to buy their firearms. <a href="https://www.bjs.gov/content/pub/pdf/suficspi16.pdf">According to the DOJ stats</a> published on the same day this bill was signed, only 1.9% of criminals in possession of a gun claim to have purchased it in a retail location.<br />
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Next they dropped<a href="http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/fulltext.asp?DocName=&SessionId=108&GA=101&DocTypeId=SB&DocNum=0107&GAID=15&LegID=115114&SpecSess=&Session="> SB 0107</a> in our laps. This is the typical "assault weapons" ban and includes your choice of registration or confiscation of existing firearms that fit their language. No surprises here except for not having a grandfather clause.<br />
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A day or two later, we see <a href="http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=0888&GAID=15&GA=101&DocTypeID=HB&LegID=115206&SessionID=108">HB0888</a> arrive. This is a bill that requires you to turn over info for your social media accounts when you apply for a new FOID or attempt to renew it. I can understand how some people might think this is a good thing, but folks....due process. If someone is doing things on one of the social media networks that makes you raise an eyebrow, I get it. But until they're prosecuted of a crime I don't see how the state could use this against them but they'll certainly try using it for Red Flag purposes.<br />
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My personal favorite (so far) is the newly released <a href="http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=1467&GAID=15&GA=101&DocTypeID=HB&LegID=115877&SessionID=108">HB1467</a>. Wondering what's in this gem? Read on.<br />
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<b>A retailer will be required to do the following for an AMMUNITION sale</b>.<br />
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Record the following info:<br />
1. Date of transaction<br />
2. Purchaser's name, address, DOB<br />
3. Purchaser's FOID information<br />
4. Amount of ammunition, caliber, manufacturer's name and serial number or other identifying info<br />
5. Requires the retailer to send all of this to the IL State Police within 7 days of the sale of ammunition.<br />
6. Retailer must keep a log book of ammunition sales, available for inspection by law enforcement<br />
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<b>The bill also requires the IL State Police to establish and maintain a searchable database which contains these ammunition records.</b><br />
<b><br /></b> Sooo, since that pesky U.S. Constitution makes it unlawful for the state to have a database of firearm sales...they'll just record ammunition sales and then deduce who-owns-what to some degree. To be clear, they do know when a firearm is sold at retail but only that it is a handgun or long gun.<br />
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<h4>
<b>Edit 1/31/19 to add a new bill introduced late yesterday:</b> </h4>
<div>
<a href="http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=1586&GAID=15&GA=101&DocTypeID=HB&LegID=116073&SessionID=108">HB1586</a> may be tied for my favorite now....this atrocity will require all handgun ammunition to be serialized. If you possess un-serialized ammunition that was previously owned or was purchased from a sane state...too bad. Also creates a registry of serial numbers from an ammunition sale, so obviously this goes along with HB1467 above. </div>
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</div>
None of this is going to stop crime of any type and they know it. My opinion is that they're hoping to drive gun shops out of business and scare a handful of people into turning in a few firearms. Meanwhile, gangbangers will still be bangin and it's business as usual with them.<br />
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Those of us closer to Kentucky than Chicago tend to be of the mindset that these things won't affect us much but you need to wake up and realize that <u>this will affect you</u>. They aren't playing around. There is a Democratic super-majority in both houses and a new leftist sitting in the Governor's chair, it's going to be tough and you need to get involved. In my opinion, complacency is consent and those who roll over are just as much to blame as those who bring this mess to the table.<br />
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How can you help? Stay with me....<br />
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Get off of your rear, get on the phone, send a letter, or an email, file witness slips for these bills, wear these elected officials out with communication. You can find the contact info for your elected officials <a href="http://www.ilga.gov/">here</a>, just click on Members and follow your nose.<br />
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If you've never filed Witness slips before, see IllinoisCarry.com (link on the right) for instructions. Lots of good folks there to help you out.<br />
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Attend<a href="https://www.isra.org/News/TabId/1068/ArtMID/4612/ArticleID/35197/IGOLD-2019.aspx"> IGOLD</a> on March 27 (there's time to plan) and get to Springfield any other time you can. Yes, even if you don't agree with everything that the ISRA does, now is no time to divide ourselves<br />
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If you're a Sheriff reading this by some strange luck, I ask that you tell the ILGA that you won't assist with enforcing this attack on honest folks if it does manage to become law.<br />
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County boards? Pass a line in your budget barring county funds from being spent on enforcement of this tripe. Help us find a way.<br />
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If you're one of the legislators that have brought these bills forward or support them, please reconsider. These actions will do nothing more than hurt the people that already follow laws, not those who are actually doing harm.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-48895250000917568992014-06-10T11:50:00.001-05:002014-06-10T11:50:56.898-05:00Seriously. What's wrong with people? You may have heard that our new <a href="http://townhall.com/tipsheet/katiepavlich/2014/06/09/feminists-freak-out-over-miss-nevada-suggestion-women-learn-self-defense-n1849213">Miss U.S.A. is an advocate of self defense</a>.<br />
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But what you may not know, is that some folks (idiots) are losing their bloody minds over that statement.<br />
<a href="http://townhall.com/tipsheet/katiepavlich/2014/06/09/feminists-freak-out-over-miss-nevada-suggestion-women-learn-self-defense-n1849213">"Feminists" are screaming that a woman shouldn't<i> have </i>to defend herself from rape</a>. Instead, men should learn to not rape......<br />
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Do these folks not know that rape is a crime already? Do they really think that if they simply educate the potential rapists that rape is wrong, then the act will just disappear overnight? Are some people really so stupid?<br />
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I'd challenge anyone to find an example of an existing, civilized culture in which rape is considered "OK". Here is the U.S. it is certainly a crime and everybody KNOWS that...no amount of education will change the fact that the rapist already KNOWS that what he is doing is wrong. (Of course, we should continue to teach that rape is wrong, I'm not suggesting that we stop...just that those bent on doing rape won't be swayed)<br />
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Why would anyone discourage women from learning how to defend themselves? What possible bad result could come from that? An attempted rapist who gets his ass beat or worse? I fail to see the down side of that outcome.<br />
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Yes, in a perfect world, women should not have to worry about being raped (or mugged, stabbed, beaten, etc). On this, we can all agree. But here's a clue: <b style="font-style: italic;">We don't live in a perfect world! </b>and until we do (never), then discouraging anyone from learning to defend themselves just perpetuates a nation of victims and empowers the rapist.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-87817409208997965332014-04-05T20:39:00.001-05:002014-04-05T20:41:22.314-05:00One of our best, goneLast night I learned of the passing of Otis McDonald. <br /><br />Mr. McDonald's name is very familiar to most folks involved in the fight to keep our Second Amendment rights. Otis, joined by David & Colleen Lawson and Adam Orlov went to the courts in order to strike down Chicago's ban on handguns. <i>McDonald v. Chicago</i> determined that the Second Amendment applies to the states and forced Chicago to recognize those rights. <br /><br />But Otis was more than that of course. He was a much loved family man and friend to many, I believe he was really one of those men that never met a stranger. <br /><br />I was fortunate enough to be introduced to Otis in 2011 by a mutual friend (thanks JD) and was able to visit with him again in 2012. Sadly, I won't get that opportunity again. <br /><br />Otis McDonald, loved and respected by many, now gone from this life April 4, 2014. <br /><br />Fair winds and following seas, sir. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-64253248756173866292014-03-01T20:42:00.001-06:002014-03-01T20:42:42.954-06:00Aaaaand, we're off! I'm sure it's much to the dismay of ICHV and others, but some folks have already received their IL concealed carry licenses in the mail today! I have seen the photographic proof over at <a target="_blank" href="www.illinoiscarry.com">IllinoisCarry.com</a> and it's a beautiful thing. <br /><br />Much anticipated and long overdue, it looks like this is really happening. Congrats to those that have received theirs already, the rest of us will just wait a bit longer. <br /><br />If anyone can, please run by and check on Lee Goodman. He's likely huddled in a corner shivering in fear. <br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-65455537190016992782014-02-04T23:19:00.005-06:002014-02-04T23:20:40.284-06:00YOUR help is needed! Let me spin you a brief tale...<br />
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A young lady of 20 lives by herself somewhere in Illinois and wishes to own a shotgun for home defense, which requires that she apply for a FOID card. However, her parents have both passed away...<br />
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This young lady now has a legal problem here in The Land of Lincoln. For anyone under the age of 21, the FOID application requires that a parent also signs the form to "give permission" for the applicant to own a firearm. Without this signature, her permit will be denied.<br />
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She can vote (let's hope she does!) and she can enlist in any branch of our military on her 18th birthday, she would be tried as an adult if she were a criminal but she can't get a FOID card. Seem a bit screwed up? Yeah, I think so too.<br />
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Other situations can also cause the FOID of a person under age 21 to be revoked...if a parent's FOID is revoked, then a child under 21 can also have their existing FOID revoked due to the actions of the parent. Sins of the father and all that. If that child is considered a legal adult (18 and above) this seems like quite a travesty.<br />
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With these and similar situations in mind, <a href="http://ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?DocNum=3762&GAID=12&GA=98&DocTypeID=HB&LegID=77572&SessionID=85">HB3762</a> has been introduced. This bill would remove the parental consent for a FOID applicant that is 18 years or older (currently 21 as previously discussed).<br />
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How can YOU help? Just click on the following links and fill out a Witness slip to show your support of the the bill, these slips are counted during the committee meeting that all bills must go through before reaching the House floor.<br />
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Don't know how to fill out a witness slip? No problem! There's also a link below that will lead you directly to instructions for doing so.<br />
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<a href="http://my.ilga.gov/WitnessSlip/Create/77572?committeeHearingId=11386&LegislationId=77572&HCommittees2%2F9%2F2014-page=1&committeeid=0&chamber=H&nodays=7&_=1391384284986">Direct link to HB3762 Witness slip.</a><br />
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<a href="http://illinoiscarry.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=32865&st=0">Link to instructions for filling out a witness slip over at IllinoisCarry.</a><br />
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Hey, while you're at <a href="http://IllinoisCarry.com/">IllinoisCarry.com</a> getting those instructions, stop by the forums, join in the conversation and stay up to date!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-52167409030177633722014-01-12T16:08:00.001-06:002014-01-12T16:08:12.905-06:00IL Concealed Carry permits are in processOf course, the title above isn't a surprise to anyone that has been paying attention. I just want to mention it again to encourage folks to go ahead and apply.<br />
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I've heard from several people that say they don't want to apply because the law is "too restrictive" or they "rarely leave their town/county" and so forth. But we all need those citizens that can spare the money to apply so that we can show the strength in numbers that "we" have.<br />
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There will be bills introduced to knock out some of the "off limits" places, some have already been written and are awaiting the filing process. Of course, everyone wants to see the fees come down...after all the costs are very heavy and folks like the elderly, single moms and those working for minimum wage, etc. are struggling to get by now. They must be able to afford to protect themselves also, no question.<br />
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So, I'm directly asking anyone that can afford it to get the required training and apply. For those that are struggling with the costs, keep your eyes and ears open...training can be had for reduced amounts. I'm not saying that you should accept subpar training though, many quality trainers have offered discounted rates and will continue to do so.<br />
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Keep an eye on the forums at <a href="http://www.illinoiscarry.com/">IllinoisCarry</a> for folks posting about training with reduced costs.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-58292637724341724792014-01-12T15:53:00.003-06:002014-01-12T15:53:28.278-06:00Check this guy out! Well, he isn't really just "this guy", he's Mike Vanderboegh over at <a href="http://sipseystreetirregulars.blogspot.com/">Sipsey Street Irregulars</a> and he's decided to start up a neat little idea to smuggle standard capacity magazines into those states that have made them illegal (Colorado, New York, Connecticut, Maryland). Not only that, but he's sent such magazines to the Governors of those states as well as David Gregory of NBC, etc. just for good measure.<br />
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I like what Mr. Vanderboegh is up to here and support him in it. He's got a strong history of standing up and demanding that those in the .gov take responsibility for their actions. In my mind, the best example is that his was one of the blogs, along with <a href="http://www.examiner.com/gun-rights-in-national/david-codrea">David Codrea of Gun Rights Examiner</a>, to break <a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/a-journalist-s-guide-to-project-gunwalker-part-one">Operation Fast and Furious</a> aka Project Gunwalker.<br />
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So do yourself a favor and go check both of the above linked blogs out and maybe step into the fray yourself...just remember, you can and may be tossed in the slammer for your actions. It looks like the Connecticut State Police would like to talk to Mr. Vanderboegh concerning his actions already..<a href="http://sipseystreetirregulars.blogspot.com/2014/01/to-official-of-connecticut-state-police.html">.he doesn't seem too concerned though. </a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-76535839396470309902013-12-22T13:29:00.002-06:002013-12-22T13:29:17.834-06:00Has the worm turned? It appears that some Chicago residents have had enough.<br />
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A recent Town Hall meeting that the Rev. Sharpton meant to be about gun violence took a nice little turn and several folks had plenty to say. Clearly, they weren't interested in talking about gun violence.....<br />
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Jobs were a popular topic and it also seems that they're tired of Aldercritters that aren't representing them, not to mention some general unhappiness with the 5th Floor (the Rahm-father).<br />
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Rather than blab on, check out some video for yourself:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/eeWldgIMXOk" width="560"></iframe><br />
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In other news, apologies for my lack of posting lately. We had a retirement at work that won't be replaced and lots of slack had to be picked up. My past few months have been work, sleep, work, be a dad, work, you get the picture.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-2364327850550518072013-10-22T09:51:00.000-05:002013-10-22T09:51:07.437-05:00At least one "top cop" gets it! Interpol Sec. General Ronald Noble "gets it" in my opinion. He's publicly saying that armed civilians may be the best way to prevent shootings such as the one in a Kenya shopping mall.<br />
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I'm surprised and happy to see this article show up in our mainstream media!<br />
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<a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/exclusive-westgate-interpol-chief-ponders-armed-citizenry/story?id=20637341&google_editors_picks=true">http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/exclusive-westgate-interpol-chief-ponders-armed-citizenry/story?id=20637341&google_editors_picks=true</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-62877767368643281842013-09-28T17:03:00.003-05:002013-09-28T17:03:59.510-05:00Congrats to IllinoisCarry!!!!Today at the Gun Rights Policy Conference in Houston, TX, the <a href="http://www.ccrkba.org/">Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms</a> presented <a href="http://www.illinoiscarry.com/">IllinoisCarry</a> with their national Grass Roots Organization of the Year award!<br />
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For all the members of IllinoisCarry: Outstanding work! It's been an uphill battle to get our Rights recognized in IL and everyone at IllinoisCarry deserves a big round of applause.<br />
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Now.... let's get back to work and continue to improve things.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-17107053949156504882013-09-26T00:02:00.002-05:002013-09-26T00:02:23.241-05:00Some movement...finallyWell it seems that after several weeks of delays, the ISP has finally posted a lot more names on the list of <a href="https://www.isp.state.il.us/firearms/ccw/instructor-registry.cfm?State=&County=&City=&LastName=&Search=Search">approved IL Concealed Carry Instructors</a>. There's been a lot of wailing and gnashing of teeth, lots of finger pointing and general disappointment while waiting. I have no idea if the delay was software related, personnel related or intended by those who continue to accept that IL citizens have had their rights (kinda) recognized. It's a start anyway.<br />
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Some folks have also had their names removed from the list. Most notably some trainers that are outside of IL borders. ISP says this is because their respective states don't report mental health issues to NICS, etc. so hopefully there won't be too much more delay for these folks.<br />
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There still aren't any curricula approved, so be wary of anyone who says that they are able to train you as of right now (Sept. 26, 2013). Yes, there are some out there that have been claiming these things already and (allegedly) collecting money for it. I don't have those facts so I won't name names just yet.<br />
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At any rate, if you plan to get this training, verify the instructor/business and also the curriculum they're using before handing over any money. ISP says they'll be posting approved curricula numbers soon (Sept. 30 is the target).<br />
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It's my hope that many, many people get the initial training and their permits - and then continue to train, it's time to exercise those Rights in IL!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-21119978210620519902013-09-11T00:50:00.002-05:002013-09-11T00:50:57.466-05:00Citizens of Colorado prevail! Now what? By now many have heard that Senate President John Morse and Senator Angela Giron <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/09/11/colorado-dems-face-historic-recall-over-gun-votes/">have been recalled. </a><br />
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Good news for the good folks of Colorado and for all of American gun owners in my opinion. But the issue goes well beyond guns really, former Senate President Morse pretty much spit in the face of constituents when he <a href="http://www.cologop.org/senate-pres-morse-advises-democrats-to-ignore-constituents-on-national-tv/">admitted to Rachel Maddow </a>that he told his state Senators to basically ignore them.<br />
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It's a real shame that Sen. Evie Hudak didn't join these two on their way out the door. <a href="http://www.denverpost.com/ci_22721762/colorado-senators-comments-rape-victim-drawing-criticism">Her comments to a rape victim</a> were so far out of touch I still can't believe she spoke them. It may not be over for Sen. Hudak though, looks like those folks trying to push her out suspended their actions in order to help with the recall of these two.... now that this drive has been successful, Hudak may want to pay very close attention to what she supports.<br />
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My hope is that this will serve as a big wake up call to politicos all over our nation. Several Machine Dems in IL could certainly stand to be recalled, maybe (I won't hold my breath) this will open their eyes a bit and realize that folks are watching. If they aren't recalled, there's always the next election to sweat.<br />
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Maybe ol'<a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/colorado-state-senate-recall-votes-test-bloomberg-article-1.1450512"> Bloomberg</a> will realize that people don't want his money involved or his opinion forced down their throats either.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-22233395141145884322013-09-04T13:16:00.000-05:002013-09-04T13:16:15.519-05:00School stabbing shows that guns aren't the real problemToday I'm skipping on IL issues and jumping down to Texas, I'm also possibly a bit quick with this since I prefer to let folks grieve a bit before running my mouth. For some reason today, I can't seem to help it though, forgive me.<br />
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Earlier today there was a<a href="http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/09/04/houston-high-school-student-stabbed-before-classes-begin/"> high school cafeteria fight that turned into a stabbing</a> with 1 dead and 3 others injured. Details are still vague but the situation is under control, so we can all be thankful for that. I'd ask that you send some thoughts and prayers toward those affected by this crime.<br />
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Spring High School apparently has its own police force, which arrived within one minute according to <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/US/houston-school-stabbing-leaves-dead-injured-custody/story?id=20152520">this officer. </a> I'd guess that this response probably did save some lives and serves as an example that more schools should have their own police force and/or armed faculty/staff (properly trained of course).<br />
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To me this is another clear example that guns aren't the real issue in our society. Our own collective failure at raising our children is more likely to blame than guns. We are seeing kids/teens/young people today that either don't understand the repercussions of their actions or they have absolutely no regard for human life...I'm sure someone involved in Sociology could say which, but it's beyond me.<br />
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But because some folks like the CSGV believe that guns are evil - rather than criminals - we'll keep having incidents like this. Instead we should be taking some real action and protecting our kids with the best tools available.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-11267202468077274732013-08-16T11:22:00.004-05:002013-08-16T11:23:23.886-05:00Criminals get pensions? So Jesse Jackson Jr. is going to prison and when he turns 65 he'll still <a href="http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/iteam&id=9206552">be receiving a partial pension of $45,000.00 per year.</a>.. not to mention the $8700.00 per month disability payment that he's eligible for now (due to his bipolar diagnosis).<br />
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Is there any wonder why the .gov is broke?<br />
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Here's what needs to happen:<br />
Sell everything the Jackson family owns, send that money to the Fed. prison system to help offset the cost of his stay and then deny the disability payments. There's no need of disability in prison. Maybe they could use some of it to help George Zimmerman pay legal fees since JJ Sr. helped create the bog that tried to suck in Zimmerman.... just a thought.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-40538310218476023412013-07-19T11:26:00.001-05:002013-07-19T11:43:03.720-05:00Rep. Davis has lost it. IL state Rep. Monique Davis (D-Chicago) has gone off the deep end. She is now spreading the rumor (while saying she doesn't want to spread this...) that maybe the Chicago PD is killing children in her district. Check it out with audio <a href="http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/07/19/state-rep-maybe-the-police-are-killing-some-of-these-kids/" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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The fact is much more likely this: The people who might actually have witnessed a shooting refuse to speak to the police. This is why the murders remain unsolved, rather than some CPD conspiracy. <br />
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BTW, this is the same woman who wants the National Guard to step in due to shootings but worries about concealed carry bringing more guns into the neighborhood. <br />
Perhaps she isn't aware that the Guard is full of young men with guns? <br />
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Actually, it's just another in a long list of kooky ideas that she has come up with over her 20+ year political career. Why do the folks in the 27th keep sending her back to Springfield? <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-31935488049797694472013-07-15T23:43:00.000-05:002013-07-15T23:45:50.915-05:00How long will they drag it out?I know that good folks are working with the ISP to get the required training together for IL concealed carry permits, but I have to believe that the state will try to drag this out well beyond the set dates.<br />
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It would be in line with the way the ISP has handled the FOID card for as many years as I can remember. Even though they're required to have a card (or a reason why you won't be receiving said card) in your hand within 30 days, they routinely fail at this. I have heard some people say it has taken them 5 months to receive their FOID.<br />
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Instructors still have to be "approved" after ISP decides what the training will consist of. I have to wonder what hoops they'll require jumping through in order to get approved. Will they attempt to skirt the time limits the law gives them, much as they do the FOID?<br />
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Don't get me wrong, I think that most of the rank and file ISP officers are in favor of citizens with firearms....but those near the top are steered by Gov. Quinn and we all know what he thinks of the new law.<br />
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Remember to visit <a href="http://www.illinoiscarry.com/">IllinoisCarry</a> to stay on top of the goings-on in IL gun Rights.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-72182969854927157552013-07-15T23:15:00.001-05:002013-07-15T23:32:49.227-05:00Pure GeniusIL District 28 voters really need to reevaluate things next time 'round as it appears that their Senator Dan Katowski (D) can't even read. <br />
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Senator Katowski wants <a href="http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=9173092" target="_blank">modify the new IL CCW law</a> even before the ink dries. He wants churches, synagogues and other places of worship placed on the gun free zones.... <br />
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First off, per the law, any place that wishes it can post said property as "no guns allowed" and this holds force of law. See, problem solved without more unwanted and unneeded law (and all those wasted taxpayer dollars). <br />
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Second, one of the primary plaintiffs in <i>Moore/Shepard v Madigan </i> was attacked, beaten and left for dead....in a church. <br />
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Further Sen. Katowski <a href="https://twitter.com/senatordan/status/356950741249835011" target="_blank">bloviates</a> about AR-15 pistols being carried. Anyone who has even seen an AR-15 pistol wouldn't attempt to carry one concealed. Maybe Andre the Giant could pull it off, but I don't know anyone that could hide a hunk of metal that big. <br />
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District 28: Don't you folks deserve better representation? Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-48400724909993622302013-07-09T18:46:00.001-05:002013-07-09T18:46:09.495-05:00Concealed Carry NOW! Well, the bill is now law anyway. I'm certain that the application development and process won't get fast tracked by much, so it'll be well into next year before IL permit #1 is issued. <br /><br />There are a lot of people that worked very hard to make this happen and deserve thanks. Mary Shepard, Michael Moore (NOT the film guy), Todd Vandermyde, Valinda Rowe, Rep. Brandon Phelps....and many others. <br /><br />Please remember, it isn't over. The good people of IL will have to stay alert as there will always be attempts to neuter the law in the future. Heck, <a target="_blank" href="www.ichv.org">ICHV</a> is already boo hoo-ing about how the legislature didn't agree with the "common sense" move by the Governor. Actual common sense is a concept they just don't grasp. <br /><br />It would be wrong if we failed to take a minute to remember those that have gone on because they couldn't protect themselves. Far too many to list. <br /><br />As always, drop by <a target="_blank" href="www.illinoiscarry.com">IllinoisCarry</a> for the latest news on all things 2A in IL. <br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-39616038467436027312013-05-31T17:44:00.001-05:002013-05-31T17:44:02.204-05:00It's a start! HB 183 passed both houses in IL today after a couple of amendments were added. It's far from perfect but it's what we've got. <br /><br />The question on my mind is this: <br />What happens if Gov. Quinn lets this sit on his desk after June 9? Will the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals say that no law is enacted and thus UUW/AgUUW are no longer enforceable? <br /><br />Anyone that knows if that could happen, I'm all ears. <br /><br />At any rate, lots have put in hard work and deserve much thanks. Lets all take a minute and send along a note of thanks to Todd V., Valinda Rowe, Rep. Phelps and all the others who have worked so hard to get us this far. We will need their continued support in years to come. <br /><br />As always be sure to check out <a target="_blank" href="www.illinoiscarry.com">Illinoiscarry</a> for updates. <br /><br /><br />- Posted on the move. <br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-52205154657398678022013-05-24T16:12:00.000-05:002013-05-24T16:12:06.744-05:00In case you haven't heard.....IL HB2193 passed the house today @ 85/30/1 with Speaker Madigan voting "aye"..... no, that isn't a typo, he really did vote for it (after speaking about it on the floor).<br />
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Although it isn't the perfect bill - far from it actually - it is a place to start. The length of training and fees will likely be challenged in courts fairly soon I'd guess (if it makes it the rest of the way through the process, of course). Judging from the average cost of most training I'm familiar with, a permit will cost a citizen around $400 + after the process is complete. I know plenty of single moms and elderly folks that NEED a permit, but won't be able to afford one....so much for equal protection....for now anyway.<br />
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Of course, Chicago and some burbs get a big kick to the nuts with this bill.... the mag bans, CFP, "assault weapons" bans will all go away if the bill makes it through everything. No longer can a municipality say what its citizens can do with regards to firearms. I'm guessing Da Mayor is fuming about now.<br />
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As I mentioned, there's more to the process and Gov. Quinn has already issued a statement that he feels the legislation isn't right for IL and will work with the Senate to kill things there. The battle isn't over yet folks.<br />
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We do owe a few phone calls of thanks to the people that have worked on this for so long, even though some weren't included in the drafting of HB2193. Todd Vandermyde of the NRA and Valinda Rowe from Illinoiscarry.com have been working non-stop for YEARS to get a solid bill passed through the House.... I'm sure they'd both like a bit more with this bill, but reality has sunk in that the Speaker really gets what he wants. Representatives Phelps, Bost, Reis, Sacia and others also have defended our Rights throughout this battle and deserve a big thanks as well.<br />
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The sad part is this: We have all seen first hand how one man can wield enough power to basically rule an entire state. I'm not sure what the Speaker is up to, but there's something here that will pay off for him or his daughter at some point in the future. His 180 turnaround was nothing short of masterful and demonstrates exactly why he's been seated as Speaker for so long now.<br />
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There are things wrong with this bill, but it also gets some other things right. I won't tell you that it's my pick of the littter... it's not even close. But I've also had to swallow a big pill, because I really thought that the Speaker would have his hands tied on this. Apparently, he's kin to Houdini.<br />
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As always, drop by <a href="http://www.illinoiscarry.com/">Illinoiscarry.com </a>to stay up to date. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-2288698198816893402013-05-07T12:27:00.001-05:002013-05-07T13:21:49.813-05:00They just won't admit it! While it's been said that you should never give up.... The Chicago machine needs to get it through the collective skull that Concealed Carry (and maybe open as well) is coming to the Land of Lincoln. <br />The current word is that they are trying to amend a Senate bill that would allow home rule municipalities a 90 day window to pass local ordinances on CCW. This would mean a patchwork of laws across the state and a lot of good folks could be in violation for crossing a city border. No one could manage to stay informed of every local law. <br />Call your Senators, call your Reps. Remind them "no bad bills, no carve outs, ONE state-ONE law. <br />Don't forget to visit <a href="www.illinoiscarry.com">IllinoisCarry</a> to stay up to date on the fight for your Rights! <br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-64803576991829996112013-04-18T21:21:00.001-05:002013-04-18T21:21:49.778-05:00What a day! For those not following along, the ILGA defeated a bill that would have removed pension investment monies from any funds that had gun manufacturers in the portfolio. Why on earth they'd want to stop investing in one of the few industries that actually makes money is beyond me. Anyway, that's off the table - for now. I'm sure it'll show up again in the future though. <br /><br />Gun owners also had another victory in IL today: the House overwhelmingly passed a bill that will strip aldermen and mayoral types of their ability to carry defensive firearms. If it passes the Senate and the Gov. signs off on it, they'll be just as defenseless as the rest of us. It definitely sends a message! <br /><br />Sadly, the much anticipated HB 997 didn't receive 71 votes. I watched the floor debate and really thought things were looking good but clearly I was wrong. Apparently, some Reps actually want Constitutional carry as they won't accept a bill that was compromised to try and ease their concerns. I'll hold my opinion on that for now. <br /><br />As always, be sure to visit www.illinoiscarry.com for discussion and updates on all things 2A in IL. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4464504101375526814.post-34866587025414231072013-03-06T23:22:00.002-06:002013-03-06T23:22:55.215-06:00IGOLD continued/afterthoughtsJust wanted to mention that Todd and Valinda weren't the only folks there speaking today, many others shared personal stories and words of encouragement. Among them were Otis McDonald <i>(McDonald v Chicago)</i> and Mary Shepard <i>(Shepard v Madigan). </i><br />
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Mary has been unable to attend the last couple of years as her Dr. hadn't released her to travel (at least that is my understanding...someone may correct me on that) and to hear her talk about being beaten and left for dead really struck a chord with everyone in attendance. It really couldn't have happened to a sweeter lady.<br />
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Once inside the Capitol I had the opportunity to thank her for standing up and taking her story to the courts, I can't imagine what it must be like to have to relate those events over and over again. While speaking with her I realized just how small of physical stature she is, I'm sure that she looks like an easy target for criminals and is.... as long as she remains unarmed. Being familiar with her story, I know that her attacker was approximately my size (6'2"/250) and standing there with her really illustrated just how much of a physical advantage someone my size would have over her. However, I know she's well trained and, if armed, she'd be a force to be reckoned with.<br />
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The media reports of attendees varies wildly, some stating that "hundreds" marched on the Capitol while others put the number between 3000 - 4000. My estimate was closer to 7000, I base this on the capacity of the main hall of PCCC (7700) and the fact that there were people all over the place outside the convention center. To say that it's tough to get an estimate on attendees is an understatement.<br />
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Yet again, the Capitol Police were heard to comment that IGOLD attendees are always a pleasure to work with and many look forward to it. Maybe they need to relay that to the "blood in the streets" crowd that wants to take away our firearms.<br />
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Sadly I wasn't able to get over to the grip-n-grin afterwards, the head cold that I thought I had shaken came back with a vengeance and I starting feeling pretty miserable while still inside the Capitol. Here's hoping that everyone there had a good time!<br />
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Thanks to everyone that puts on and attends IGOLD.... we ARE making a difference.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0