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Monday, March 24, 2008

10th Annual Crush'n Clays Set for June 14th

It’s hard to believe that it all started 10 years ago, but VSSA again will host the 10th Annual St. Jude "Crush'n Clays" Clay Target Charity Classic. John Satterwhite, world renown shotgun exhibition shooter, former World Champion and winner of 6 gold medals in international competition will join us again for this special event.

The annual shoot is scheduled for Saturday June 14th 2008 at the Arlington/Fairfax IWLA Chapter in Centreville, VA. Over the last nine years, "Crush'n Clays" has raised more than $180,000 to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The event is hosted by the Virginia Shooting Sports Association and the Arlington/Fairfax Chapter of the IWLA. The popular event draws shooters from throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and is an excellent way to introduce friends and family to the shooting sports. The event is open to the public, with individuals competing in a trapshooting format. Everyone has a chance to win, regardless of ability. The format allows novices to compete alongside experienced shooters. Squads of 4 shooters can enter the main event for $230 and individual shooters can enter for $60 ($65 if you register after May 20th). The entry fee includes, loaner shotguns (for novices), main event ammunition, targets, a shooting clinic, event t-shirt, lunch and awards. There will also be the very popular Annie Oakley side event.

Interested shooters can download an entry form here. For information or if you are interested in being an event sponsor contact Steve Canale, slingenlead@yahoo.com, or contact the VSSA office at (540) 672-5848.

Proceeds from the event will help support the St. Jude Children's Medical Research Hospital, the largest pediatric research facility in America established solely for the study of catastrophic diseases. St. Jude was founded by entertainer Danny Thomas, in 1962, and has over 4,000 patients in active status. Since its inception, treatment protocols developed at the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have brought survival rates for childhood cancers from less than 20% to better than 60% overall. St. Jude has a vast network of referring physicians, including over 99 in Virginia. Over 121 children from Virginia have been treated at St. Jude, with countless others benefiting from its research.

You can see some highlights from last year's event below.

Saturday, March 22, 2008

Charles City County Seeking Ban on Hunting with Rifles

Charles City County is seeking a ban on hunting with rifles. If the county is successful it would eliminate precious hunting opportunities and would discourage hunters from taking to the woods to pass their hunting heritage on to the next generation and to help manage Virginia’s wildlife.

Hunting with a rifle has only been legal in Charles City County for the past two years, and just last month, the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) testified before the County that there have been no firearms-related hunting fatalities in the last decade. There have been four shooting-related incidents. However, none involved rifles. DGIF officials are the experts regarding hunting safety and scientific game management practices and have actively represented hunter interests through the years. These two factors alone should be used to shape hunting regulations in the Commonwealth.

It is critical that hunters attend the Charles City County Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Government & School Board Administration Building, 10900 Courthouse Road, Charles City, VA 23030 to oppose changes to the county ordinances governing the use of rifles for deer hunting. In the meantime, please contact each member of the Charles City County Board of Supervisors and strongly encourage them to refrain from making any changes to county regulations that have proven to be successful.

Please contact each member of the Charles City County Board of Supervisors and strongly encourage them to refrain from making any changes to county regulations that have proven to be successful. Also, please be sure to pass this information along to your family, friends, and fellow hunters.

Timothy W. Cotman, Sr.
Email: tcotman@co.charles-city.va.us
Phone: (804) 652-4701
Fax: (804) 829-5819

Sherri M. Bowman - Vice Chairman
Email: sbowman@co.charles-city.va.us
Phone: (804) 652-4701
Fax: (804) 829-5819

Gilbert A. Smith – Chairman
Email: gsmith@co.charles-city.va.us
Phone: (804) 652-4701
Fax: (804) 829-5819

Friday, March 21, 2008

First NRANews Video of Heller Analysis Up on Townhall.com

NRANews has been doing some great analysis of the D.C. gun ban oral arguments. They have posted the first of what I am sure will be many video clips here on the Townhall.com NRANews video page. They should also be up soon on the NRA Videos You Tube page. If you missed the oral arguments or are having problems with the C-SPAN archive, NRANews has also archived the entire audio of the oral arguments on their web site. Just click the archives link then the DC vs. Heller link at the top of the archive drop down box.

Thursday, March 20, 2008

More on Presidential Candidates and Guns

Reuters news service printed the following information on Tuesday:

Following are the positions of the leading U.S. presidential candidates on gun control.

DEMOCRATS
SEN. HILLARY CLINTON
She has said law-abiding citizens should be able to own guns but laws are needed to keep guns out of the hands of criminals. She co-sponsored legislation to reinstate for 10 years a ban on assault weapons.

The National Rifle Association gives her a failing grade of "F" for her position on guns.

SEN. BARACK OBAMA
Wants tighter background checks on gun buyers, making gun locks mandatory and holding parents criminally responsible for children who injure someone with a gun found at home. Supports reinstating assault-weapons ban.

The National Rifle Association gives him a failing grade of "F" for his position on guns.



REPUBLICAN
SEN. JOHN McCAIN
Opposes gun control, calling it "a proven failure in fighting crime." Opposes waiting periods to buy firearms. Has supported legislation requiring gun makers to include trigger locks with their products. Opposes reinstating assault-weapons ban. Has supported mandating background checks on gun buyers at gun shows.

The National Rifle Association gives him an average grade of "C" for his position on guns but says he has a perfect voting record since 2007 and his grade may be revised.

Sources: Reuters, campaign Web sites, Detroit Free Press, the National Rifle Association

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Republican U.S. Senate Nomination

VSSA is a non-partisan organization. We support pro-gun candidates regardless of party affiliation. The following information is provided to inform our members and gun owners in general who may be interested in participating in choosing the Republican candidate to run for U.S. Senate in the fall General Election.

The Republican nomination for U.S. Senate will occur at the state convention in Richmond on May 31, 2008. Former Governor and current NRA Board Member Jim Gilmore is running for the nomination against Delegate Bob Marshall of Prince William County for the opportunity to face former Governor Mark Warner, who is unopposed for the Democratic nomination.

If you are interested in participating in the Republican nominating process, you must be elected a delegate to the Republican state convention. Elected? That's right. But don't worry; you don't need to try that hard. Generally, every local Republican committee has more slots for state convention delegates than are people interested in attending as delegates. So, basically, if you sign up, you'll be elected.To be a state convention delegate, you should plan to attend your local area convention or mass meeting.

We've listed below all of the conventions and mass meetings that we're aware of. If your local area is not mentioned, contact your local party (find out who you need to contact by clicking here) and ask when the local conventions or mass meeting will be held and how you can sign up. Often, attendance at the convention or mass meeting is not required if you file as a delegate to the state convention prior to the deadline. Speak to your local committee chairman for more details. Don't let the fees keep you away. Suggested donations defray costs of the Convention, but are not required.

Some local committees have already held their mass meetings or their filing deadlines have passed. It is now too late to become a delegate to the state convention if you live in the following areas:
Albemarle
Alexandria (city)
Appomattox
Arlington
Buckingham
Campbell
Culpeper
Danville
Dickenson
Falls Church (city)
Fauquier
Gloucester
Hampton City
Henry
King George
Lancaster
Loudoun
Newport News
Northampton
Page
Rappahannock
Rockbridge
Stafford
Warren
Waynesboro

The following are deadlines to file for the associated localities:

March 19: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Cumberland: The Cumberland County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Cumberland who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 7pm on Wednesday, March 19, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to visit the Cumberland committee website.

Roanoke City: The Roanoke City Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Roanoke City Council Chambers, 215 Church Ave., S.W., City of Roanoke, at 7pm on Wednesday, March 19, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the City of Roanoke who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between 6pm and 7pm (but no later than 7pm) to register. All persons in line by 7pm will be allowed to register for the Mass Meeting.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

March 20: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Franklin City/Southampton: The Franklin/Southampton County Unit Committee of the Republican Party Mass Meeting will be held at the Southampton County Administrative Building located at 26022 Administration Center Drive, Courtland, Virginia, at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the City of Franklin/Southampton who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between 6pm and 7pm (but no later than 7pm) to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Chesterfield: The Chesterfield County Republican Party does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local canvass. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Chesterfield who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 6pm on Thursday, March 20, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Party Canvass.

Shenandoah: The Shenandoah County Republican Committee will be holding Precinct Mass Meetings prior to the County Convention. To be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention, you should plan to attend the Precinct Mass Meeting on Thursday, March 20, 2008, and the plan on attending the County Convention on Friday, April 11, 2008. If you are unable to attend the mass meeting, convention, or both, please contact Chairman Michael Monahan at 540-856-2200 (monahan@shentel.net) and request to be added to the list for election as a state convention delegate.Please visit the Shenandoah County Republican Committee Call for locations of Precinct Mass Meetings and other information.Any registered voter in the County of Shenandoah who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may participate. There is no pre-filing.

Halifax: The Halifax County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Lodge Restaurant; 3102 Halifax Rd.; South Boston, Virginia 24592, at 7pm on Thursday, March 20, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Halifax who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between 6pm and 7pm (but no later than 7pm) to register.For additional information on this mass meeting, please contact Pat Barksdale at 434-753-6374.

March 21: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
James City: The James City County Republican Party does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of James City who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Friday, March 21 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Virginia Beach: The Republican Party of Virginia Beach does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the City of Virginia Beach who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate. To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 12-noon on Friday, March 21 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this mass meeting, click here to visit the Virginia Beach GOP website.

March 24: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Richmond City: The City of Richmond Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held in the Auditorium of the Richmond Public Library, 101 East Franklin Street (at the corner of 1st and Franklin in downtown Richmond), starting at 6pm on Wednesday, March 26, 2008. You need to attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the City of Richmond who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate and attend this mass meeting.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this mass meeting, click here to read the committee's call to mass meeting.

Smyth: The Smyth County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the W.W. Scott Senior Citizens Center, 307 South Park Street, Marion, Virginia 24354, at 7:30pm on Monday, March 24, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Smyth who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting no later than 7:30pm to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Martinsville: The Martinsville Committee of the Republican Party Mass Meeting will be held at the Martinsville General District Courtroom, 55 West Church Street, Martinsville, Virginia, at 7pm on Monday, March 24, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the City of Martinsville who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between 6:30pm and 7pm (but no later than 7pm) to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

March 25: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Wythe: The Wythe County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the the Wythe County General District Court Room, 245 S. 4th. Street, Suite 205, Wytheville, Virginia, at 7pm on Tuesday, March 25, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Wythe who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Richmond: The Richmond County Republican Party Mass Meeting will be held at the Warsaw Town Office, 78 Belleville Lane, Warsaw, Virginia, at 7:30pm on Tuesday, March 25, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Richmond who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between 7pm and 7:30pm (but no later than 7:30pm) to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

March 27: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Fairfax City: The City of Fairfax Republican Party does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the City of Fairfax who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 6pm on Thursday, March 27 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting

Washington: The Washington County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Virginia Highlands Airport, 18521 Lee Highway, Abingdon, Virginia, at 6pm on Thursday, March 27, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Washington who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting no later than 6pm to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

March 28: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Nelson: The Nelson County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Nelson who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 7pm on Friday, March 28 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

York: The York County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of York who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Friday, March 28 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Poquoson: The Poquoson City Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the City of Poquoson who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Friday, March 28 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

March 29: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Fairfax County: The Fairfax County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local convention. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Fairfax who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than noon on Saturday, March 29 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Prince William: The Prince William County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local convention. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Prince William who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 7pm on Saturday, March 29 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to visit the Prince William committee website.

Emporia/Greensville: The Emporia Greensville Republican Party Mass Meeting will be held at the Emporia Municipal Building, 201 South Main St., Emporia, Virginia 23847, at 11am on Saturday, March 29, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the Counties of Emporia/Greensville who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between prior to 11am (but no later than 11am) to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Staunton: The Staunton Unit Committee of the Republican Party Mass Meeting will be held at City Hall, 116 West Beverley Street in downtown Staunton, starting at 10am on Saturday, March 29, 2008. You need to attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the City of Staunton who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate and attend this mass meeting.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 10am on Saturday, March 29, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this mass meeting, click here to visit the committee's website.

Franklin: The Franklin County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Franklin who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 9:30am on Saturday, March 29, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting

Orange: The Orange County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Lake Of Woods Community in the Wood center, at 10am on Saturday, March 29, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Orange who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between no later than 10am to register.For additional information on this mass meeting, please contact Doug Rogers at 540-972-8117.

March 31: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Essex: The Essex County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Essex who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 6pm on Monday, March 31, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

April 1: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
King & Queen: The King & Queen County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at Roma’s Restaurant, Tappahannock, Virginia, at 7pm on Tuesday, April 1, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of King & Queen who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Hopewell: The Hopewell City Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Hopewell City Council Chambers, 300 N. Main Street, Hopewell, Virginia 23860, at 7pm on Tuesday, April 1, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the City of Hopewell who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Bedford: The Bedford City/County Committee of the Republican Party of Virginia does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the City or County of Bedford who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Tuesday, April 1, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting

April 2: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Powhatan: The Powhatan Committee of the Republican Party does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Powhatan who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Wednesday, April 2, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting

April 3: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Floyd: The Floyd County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Floyd County Administrative Building Conference Room; 120 W. Oxford Street, at 7:30pm on Thursday, April 3, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Floyd who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting before 7:30pm to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Greene: The Greene County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Greene County Circuit Court House, on Court Square, Stanardsville, Virginia, at 7pm on Thursday, April 3, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Greene who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between 6pm and 7pm (but no later than 7pm) to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Pittsylvania: The Pittsylvania County Committee of the Republican Party Mass Meeting will be held at the General District Court Room in Chatham, Virginia (Main Street), at 7pm on Thursday, April 3, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Pittsylvania who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between 6:30pm and 7pm (but no later than 7pm) to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

April 4: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Spotsylvania: The Spotsylvania County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Spotsylvania who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Friday, April 4, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to visit the Spotsylvania Call to Mass Meeting.

Williamsburg: The Williamsburg Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the City of Williamsburg who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) (the form is located on page 4 of the pdf file) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 6pm on Friday, April 4, 2008 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to visit the Williamsburg Call to Mass Meeting.

April 5: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Harrisonburg: The Harrisonburg City Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Rockingham County Administrative Offices, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22801, at 9am on Saturday, April 5, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the City of Harrisonburg who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting no later than 9am to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Rockingham: The Rockingham County Republican Party offers two ways to become a delegate to the state convention:On or before 5pm on April 2, 2008: You may prefile by printing and filling out this form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Wednesday, April 2, 2008 (postmarks do not govern). If you prefile, you are not required to attend the mass meeting.If after 5pm on April 2, no later than 10am on Saturday, April 5, 2008: You can attend the mass meeting and sign up there. The meeting will be held at the Board of Supervisors Meeting Room, Rockingham County Administration Center, 20 East Gay Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802, on Saturday, April 5, 2008, at 10am. If you did not prefile, you must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention. Registration opens at 9:30am, and ends at 9:55am. All persons in line by 9:55am will be allowed to register for the Mass Meeting.Any registered voter in the County of Rockingham who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may prefile and/or attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. You are not required to prefile if attending the mass meeting, but may prefile in lieu of attending the meeting.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

April 8: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Frederick: The Frederick County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Frederick who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Tuesday, April 8 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to visit the Frederick committee website.

April 9: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Roanoke: The Roanoke County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Roanoke who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 5pm on Wednesday, April 9 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

April 10: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Augusta: The Augusta County Republican Committee Mass Meeting will be held at the Augusta County Government Center, 18 Government Center Lane, Verona, Virginia, at 7pm on Thursday, April 10, 2008. You must attend this meeting to be elected a delegate to the state GOP convention.Any registered voter in the County of Augusta who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may attend the mass meeting and be selected as a state convention delegate. There is no pre-filing for this mass meeting. To sign up, arrive at the mass meeting between 6pm and 7pm (but no later than 7pm) to register.For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

Montgomery: The Montgomery County Republican Party does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Montgomery who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 7pm on Thursday, April 10 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to read the Call to Mass Meeting.

April 12: Deadline to become a delegate in the following areas
Henrico: The Henrico County Republican Committee does not require people interested in being delegates to the state convention to attend the local mass meeting. Thus, any registered voter in the County of Henrico who is in accord with the principles of the Republican Party may file as a state convention delegate.To file/apply, print and fill out the form (by clicking here) and return to the address listed on the form, no later than 6pm on Saturday April 12 (postmarks do not govern).For additional information on this local meeting, click here to visit the Henrico committee website.

News accounts of Gun Ban Case Mostly Balanced

While not predicting victory, it appears from the questions during yesterday's oral arguments in District of Columbia vs. Heller that at least five justices are prepared to state that the Second Amendment protects an individual right and will thus affirm the lower court decision striking down the D.C. Gun Ban.

If you did not get to hear the oral arguments, you can listen here. You can see a complete list of news articles about the oral arguments here.

Cam Edwards of NRANews has been doing an exhaustive commentary with legal experts on the arguments and plans to upload some of those segments in the archives at the NRANews web site. I will let you know when those are available.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Live Blogging the Oral Argument

Well, it did not take long for Chief Justice Roberts to go after D.C. attorney Walter Dellinger for his assertion that the Second Amendment was intended for a militia. And now both Kennedy and Scalia have weighed in. Dellinger got about five minutes into his remarks before the justices started their questions. Dellinger is clearly on the defense. I find it conforting that Kennedy has joined Roberts and Scalia in there peppering of Dellinger.

Dellinger just referred to the 42 states that have protected the individual right to keep and bear arms but have also placed "reasonable" restrictions. Roberts asks "is it reasonable be ban a complete class of firearms?"

Dellinger says the District does allow some operable firearms. Alito nails him on the fact it has to be inoperable. Dellinger is saying the District now has no argument with having a firearm for self-defense. This however is not what the DC code states.

Stevens asks how Gura can explain why neither the Articles of Confederation nor the Constitution explicitly refers to self-defense.

Breyer now asks why the total ban on handguns is a reasonable regulation. Dellinger is going back to the "well regulated militia" for his answer and Scalia interupts him to say that "well regulated" does not mean "massively regulated."

Solicitor General Clement is now testifying. He is already playing the weasel that he played in his amicus. Kennedy asks him if his position is that the people who lived in the wilderness did not have the right to have arms for self defense and Clement tries to have it both ways. That the militia was foremost in the Founders mind.

1:26 PM

I had to step away for a meeting and missed most of the Clement argument and the first part of Gura's statements. He is now being questioned by Breyer. SCOTUS Blog has a live online poll and the majority of responders beleve Dellinger performed poorly and Clement was average.

Breyer asks why cities should not be given leeway to construct firearms regulations to meet local problems.

Lyle Denniston on SCOTUSblog: In an argument that ran 23 minutes beyond the allotted time, Justice Anthony M. Kennedy emerged as a fervent defender of the right of domestic self-defense. With Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., and Justices Samuel A. Alito, Jr., and Antonin Scalia leaving little doubt that they favor an individual rights interpretation of the Amendment (and with Justice Clarence Thomas, though silent on Tuesday, having intimated earlier that he may well be sympathetic to that view), Kennedy’s inclinations might make him -- once more -- the holder of the deciding vote. At one key point, he suggested that the one Supreme Court precedent that at least hints that gun rights are tied to military not private needs — the 1939 decision in U.S. v. Miller — “may be deficient” in that respect.

1:51

Dellinger is back up and Roberts is going at him on how long it would take to get a trigger lock off and load the gun if it were needed. Dellinger is struggling with response. Scalia has joined in now. He says "its on you end table so you have to turn on the lamp and pick up your reading glasses" to laughter. Dellinger said it takes three seconds but this does not make a difference in the hand gun ban. He is going back that residents can use arms for self defense.

Roberts ask what proof is there that a rifle or shotgun is better than a handgun for self defense.

Alito is now part of the party going after the trigger lock provision.

I just can't get past the fact that Dellinger continually repeats that the District is not challenging the provision that residents can use another form of firearm for self defense. Roberts is asking why DC has a "carry provision" that prohibits you to carry it from one room to another.

The arguments have not wrapped up and I have another meeting to attend. You can get a great summary of the arguments here.

Today is the Day

This morning, both sides will have their day in court in District of Columbia vs. Heller, also known as the D.C. gun ban case. As Randy Barnett points out in this mornings' Wall Street Journal, because "the District of Columbia is a federal entity, Heller provides a clean application of the Second Amendment which, like the rest of the Bill of Rights, originally applied only to the federal government." Barnett continues that in order for a state or local gun law can be challenged, the Supreme Court must decide that the right to keep and bear arms is also protected by the 14th Amendment, which limits state powers. So, while it is not likely that the Court will issue such a broad ruling in this case, even a decision upholding an unqualified individual right in Heller would still be a significant victory for individual rights. The Court will likely issue their ruling in June at the end of the term, setting up a renewed emphasis on guns in the Presidential election no matter what the ruling.

You can hear the oral arguments at 11:30 AM on C-SPAN and at the C-SPAN web site. C-SPAN will also archive the audio if you can not hear it when it airs live.

UPDATE: The Presidential Candidates on today's historic case according the Washington Times:

Sen. John McCain: The McCain campaign issued this press release today -

Statement By John McCain On The DC Gun Ban Case Before The Supreme Court
ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain today issued the following statement on District of Columbia v. Heller:

"Today, the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments on District of Columbia v. Heller, a landmark case for all Americans who believe as I do that the Second Amendment guarantees an individual right to keep and bear arms. I am proud to have joined in an amicus brief to the Court calling for a ruling in keeping with the clear intent of our Founding Fathers, which ensures the Second Amendment rights of the residents of District of Columbia are reaffirmed."

Sen. Barack Obama: Jen Psaki, a spokeswoman for Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois, said Mr. Obama "believes the Second Amendment creates an individual right, and he greatly respects the constitutional rights of Americans to bear arms."

"He also believes that the Constitution permits state and local governments to adopt reasonable and common-sense gun safety measures," she said, but would not elaborate on the whether the senator supports the D.C. gun ban. (Note: Mr. Obama did not join 55 of his Senate colleagues in signing the congressional amicus brief supporting Heller.)

Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton: did not respond to repeated requests from the Washington Times for comment on the Heller case. (Note: Mrs. Clinton did not join 55 of her senate colleagues in signing the congressional amicus brief supporting Heller.)

Monday, March 17, 2008

D.C. Gun Ban Arguments to be Broadcast by C-Span

In a rare decision that demonstrates the interest in the case, the high court will release an audiotape of the arguments in District of Columbia vs Heller on March 18. The tape will then be aired on C-SPAN at 11:30 a.m. If you have Internet access in your office, C-SPAN streams some of it's programming so you will be able to hear it on your computer if you are not near a TV with C-SPAN.


Sunday, March 16, 2008

Another Example of Why ATF is Badly in Need of Reform

I've posted previously about the ATF harassment of Ryan Horsley of Red's Trading Post - how ATF is coming in on an almost weekly basis trying to close down Red's by inspecting the gun shop's books looking for the slightest paperwork mistake. Horsely has finally gotten his day in court. The judge has yet to issue a verdict.

One has to wonder if ATF is on a mission to not only shut down gun shops, but to end the private ownership of firearms as well. One more example of ATF harassment of private gun owners is this story which was part of CNN's Lou Dobb's program on Thursday. The report is about the conviction of Wisconsin gun owner and honorably discharged Army veteran, David Olofson, who was convicted in federal court of "transferring a machine gun," after his 20-year-old AR-15 rifle malfunctioned on a shooting range. That malfunction caused the rifle to fire multiple rounds with one pull of the trigger. Now the father of three is a convicted felon facing prison time. On Friday, Dobbs reported part two of Olofson's ordeal and the questionable tactics used by ATF to push the case. In short, in this particular case, ATF lived up to the image of a rogue agency that Congressmen John Dingell described in 1982.


There are two bills than need the support of gun owners that would bring much needed reform to ATF, HR 4900 and HR 1791. HR 1791 - the Fairness in Firearm Testing Act - would direct the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives to make a video recording of the entire process of its examination and testing of an item for the purpose of determining whether the item is a firearm (and if so, the type of firearm) or ammunition. In addition, it bars the Bureau from editing or erasing any such recording.

HR 4900 revises the civil penalties accessed to gun dealers for violations of firearms law and the procedures for assessing such penalties, revises the definition of "willfully" for purposes of firearms violations and standards for criminal violations of firearms record keeping requirements, and requires the Attorney General to: (1) make preliminary determinations on firearms license applications and notify applicants in writing of a proposed denial; and (2) establish guidelines for Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) inspections, examinations, or investigations of possible firearms violations. The bill also prohibits ATF from disclosing information on firearms purchasers other than to a court, law enforcement agency, or prosecutor.

These are two very needed reforms and gun owners are urged to contact their congressman and ask them to support and co-sponsor the bills if they have not already done so.

Thursday, March 6, 2008

It's Not Over Till the Fat Lady Sings

The Northern Virginia Daily reported this morning that Senator Jill Vogel (R-Upperville) said Wednesday she intends to use a rarely invoked procedure on the floor today to bring the override of vetoed SB 436 back for one more try.

SB 436 initially passed the Senate 31-9, more than enough votes to overcome a veto. But as I posted yesterday, six Democrats changed their mind and voted against the measure on Wednesday. Vogel believes the Governor put pressure on Democrats in the Senate to change their earlier position in support of this bill.

Kaine said the measure was a danger to law enforcement officers. What he did not explain is how exactly are law abiding gun owners who choose to take advantage of the change in the law a threat to law enforcement. Criminals don't obey the law and will continue to hide their guns - the difference be they won't be in locked containers.

The leopard has begun showing its spots when it comes to Kaine and gun owner rights. While he has signed pro-gun legislation, he continues to veto legislation that expands the rights of citizens to protect themselves and their families. He clearly has an elitist view of the Second Amendment. For proof, we need only go back as far as January when he disagreed with Attorney Bob McDonnell's joining the amicus brief of 30 other AGs in support of Richard Heller in the D.C. gun ban case.

Kaine is no friend of gun owners or the right to self defense.

Update: The Washington Times this morning, reporting on the D.C. Gun Ban case and the number of groups that have weighed in had this tidbit:

A spokesman for Virginia Gov. Tim Kaine, a Democrat, said Mr. Kaine supports Second Amendment rights but that they are "subject to reasonable regulation."

"He has not gone that far" to say that he does not want to see the ban overturned, Kaine spokesman Gordon Hickey said. "He is not the governor of D.C."
This begs the question, does a complete ban on guns (handguns are completely banned in D.C. and log guns must be registered and lock or disassembled with ammo stored separately - effectively making them all but banned) equal "reasonable regulation"?

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Kaine Veto of SB 436 and SB 476 Sustained

The Senate voted on whether to sustain or override anti-gun Governor Kaine's veto of SB 436 and SB 476. Both votes failed as SB 436 died on a 25-15 vote. This is a switch of six votes from original passage. But when you look at those switchers, most of them are usually anti-gun legislators, or at least not folks we could count on to be on our side more than occasionally (Barker - NRA "D" rating, Colgan - NRA "D" rating, Yvonne Miller - NRA "F" rating, Northam NRA "C-" rating, Petersen - NRA "C" rating, Whipple - NRA "F" rating) that would not have been expected to vote for this type of legislation in the first place.

SB 476 died on a 22-18 vote with two votes switching, the usually anti-gun Colgan switched and southwest Virginia Senator Philip Puckett voting to sustain the veto. Senator Puckett used to be a reliably pro-gun vote but only received a "C" rating from the NRA in 2007.

Both bills are dead for the session. VSSA would like to thank State Senators Vogel and Hanger for their leadership on both of these commonsense proposals, and for their willingness to stand up for Virginia's law-abiding firearm owners! We'd also like to express our appreciation for those State Senators and Delegates who supported both of these measures and worked to protect your right to self-defense, as well as for the thousands of VSSA Members and gun owners across the Commonwealth who contacted their elected officials in support of these measures. Please take time and thank your Senator or Delegate if they voted to support your right to self defense. Also, continue to let Governor Kaine know how you feel about his having vetoed these commonsense bills.

More on Kaine Veto of Self Defense Legislation

I posted on this blog after SB 436 and SB 476 passed that they passed after the window that required the Governor to act before the end of the session. I was mistaken. It has been a while since I have worked in the realm of appointive state Government and my memory is apparently not as good as I thought. Bills that arrive on the Governor's desk more than a week before the session's adjournment fall within a seven-day window of time in which he has sign, amend, or veto them, or they'll become law anyway. Both SB 436 and SB 476 met that requirement.

A number of articles in this morning's papers reported on Kaine's action. This Washington Post report confirmed what I thought; there is a chance the legislature could try and override the Governor's veto of SB 436 and SB 476 before they adjourn on Saturday. I know that Governor Gilmore vetoed a bill during the session in 1998 and the legislature attempted an override during the session and did not wait for the reconvened session (known as the "Veto Session"). With SB 436 standing the best chance for an override, it is possible that Senator Vogel will want to act quickly so as not to give Kaine a month to twist the arms of pro-gun Democrats. The Post reported:
Kaine vetoed his first legislation of the year -- a pair of bills that would have loosened restrictions on where person may carry or place firearms. One measure would have allowed people to keep concealed weapons in cars if the weapons are locked in a compartment or container, even if the owner did not have a permit (SB 436). The other would have allowed people to carry concealed weapons into restaurants that serve alcohol (SB476). Currently, it is legal to carry a weapon into a restaurant
only if it does not serve alcohol.

Kaine said the bills could have endangered law enforcement officers, restaurant employees and patrons.

"I have to make a decision that's best for public safety,'' Kaine said. He said he based his decision on recommendations from the law enforcement community.

Del. C. Todd Gilbert (R-Shenandoah) called the measures "two very
reasonable bills" and said Kaine showed "disdain for law-abiding gun
owners."

"He is not a strong believer in the Second Amendment," Gilbert said.

Legislators could try to override Kaine's veto this week or when they return for a one-day veto session April 16. Two-thirds of both chambers are needed to override a veto.

This from the Richmond Times-Dispatch:

It was the second time since 2006 that Kaine has refused to sign legislation allowing weapons to be stored in a motor vehicle's locked glove compartment or other vault-like boxes (SB 436). The guns-in-bars proposal had never before made it to the governor's desk.

The Vogel bill (SB 436) stands the best chance of the two of becoming law, despite Kaine's objections. That's because the measure was approved by margins in the House of Delegates and Virginia Senate big enough to override a veto. It cleared the House with 69 votes and the Senate with 31. In the House, that's two better than required for a veto override; in the Senate, four more than the minimum.

A two-thirds vote is required in both chambers for a bill to become law over a governor's veto. The Hanger bill may face tougher going. It passed the House with 62 votes, and the Senate with only 24.

And though both bills generated support among Kaine's fellow Democrats,
particularly those from the countryside, they will likely come under pressure to
sustain his vetoes.

And finally, this from the Winchester Star, Senator Vogel is not please with the Governor either.

"The Governor’s heavy handed approach to kill legislation supported by the overwhelming majority of legislators in his own party demonstrates the power of the anti-2nd Amendment lobby over this governor," she said in the release. "I consider it a sad day for the citizens of Virginia when the governor will side with a small but powerful lobby over the objection of gun owners in Virginia as well as a stunning majority of members of the House and Senate."
VSSA reminded gun owners during the 2005 campaign of Kaine's anti-gun background. He ran saying he supported the Second Amendment and was no threat to the rights of gun owners. His record as Mayor of Richmond said otherwise and we now have proof that those promises of 2005 were empty words. This is a lesson we should remember during this election year.

As for these two bills, gun owners need to put more pressure on the Senators and Delegates than Governor Kaine. Please act now and contact your legislator. You can find out your legislator's contact information by clicking here and completing the form.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Kaine Vetos Self Defense Legislation

Today, Governor Tim Kaine (D) announced his veto of important self-defense measures – Senate Bill 436 and Senate Bill 476, both of which passed each chamber of the General Assembly by overwhelmingly bipartisan majorities. SB436, authored by State Senator Jill Vogel (R-27) would allow for non-concealed carry permit holders to safely store a handgun in a locked container or compartment in a vehicle or boat. The State Senate passed the measure 31-9, while the House of Delegates approved the bill, 69-29.

SB476, authored by State Senator Emmett Hanger (R-24), would allow restaurants and clubs to decide whether or not concealed carry permit holders may carry concealed firearms in their dining establishments for self-defense, provided that the CCW permit holder does not consume alcohol. Thirty-one states currently allow concealed carry in restaurants. The Virginia Senate voted 24-15 in favor of the bill, while the House of Delegates vote passed it 62-36.

VSSA is disappointed but not surprised by the governor’s decision to ignore the will of a bi-partisan majority of the legislature. His spokesman inferred the Governor would likely veto the bills after they passed both houses. Both bills are reasonable measures. The delegates and senators who voted for this measure trust law-abiding Virginians and believe that these sensible measures enhance public safety within the Commonwealth of Virginia. Apparently, Governor Kaine does not trust Virginia’s nearly 150,000 law-abiding concealed carry permit holders. Also, in th press release announcing his veto of SB476, Gov. Kaine alluded to “law enforcement” opposition to this measure. However, during committee testimony in both chambers, Virginia State Police representatives did not state any opposition to the bill when asked for their position.

The General Assembly session is scheduled to adjourn this Saturday, March 8.

Please contact your State Senator and State Delegate immediately and strongly encourage them to stand up for your right to self-defense by voting to override Governor Kaine’s veto of these critically important bills! To find contact information for your State Senator and Delegate please click here.

More on Obama and Guns

On this Super Tuesday 2.o, it is only fitting that courtesy of the LA Times, we learn where Barrack Obama may hang his hat to prove his support for the Second Amendment. According to a February 29th post on the LA Times Blog , his vote for the Vitter Amendment that bans local governments from confiscating firearms during a natural disaster is the only distinction between Obama and Clinton on the issue.

LA Times blogger Tim Cavanaugh writes that trying to differentiate the views of the two Democratic frontrunners is not so easy, even when it comes to gun control. Does Obama support individual ownership or a universal ban (he has said it is an individual right yet he did not sign on the the congressional amicus supporting Richard Heller in the D.C. gun ban case)? Does Clinton really believe law-abiding citzens should be allowed to own guns (she also did not sign on to the congressional amicus brief)? He also poses the question "Are Second Amendment stalwarts right to view this as a choice between on gun grabber and another?"

Cavanaugh writes:

I give you Vitter Amdendment No. 4615, which was voted on in the U.S. Senate at 6:13 PM on July 13, 2006. Here's the text:

To prohibit the confiscation of a firearm during an emergency or major disaster if the possession of such firearm is not prohibited under Federal or State law.

The amendment, which was attached to a Homeland Security appropriations package, was approved 84-16. The bill itself was signed into law in October 2006.

Canvanaugh then goes on to refresh our memory going back to post-Hurricane Katrina period, when stories of mostly inaccurate disaster-area pillage gave way to revelations about how "incompetent police chief Eddie Compass and other authorities eventually tried to deal with these non-existent incidents.
In particular, some footage of cops manhandling Patty Konie — an elderly resident seen holding (by the barrel) a revolver that looked like something that would have blown up in Wild Bill Hickock's tiny hands — provided a shock even to those who don't normally get excited about such matters.

This was the context in which the Vitter amendment was introduced. Here is how the Democratic front-runners voted:

Clinton (D-NY), Nay
Obama (D-IL), Yea

For this gun owner, one lone vote does not make one a supporter of the individual right to keep and bear arms.

Hat tip to Cam Edwards for mentioning this on Cam and Company.

Saturday, March 1, 2008

Astroturf Gun Group Unmasked

Most gun rights activists have probably heard of the American Hunter's and Shooters Association (AHSA). I mentioned them in my post yesterday about Obama's double speak. Well, AHSA's President, Ray Schoenke, is pretty good at it himself. See, he seems to have a personal grudge against the NRA and it's leadership. You would think that a group that claims to be pro Second Amendment would spend more time attacking the antis than other gun rights organizations. But, I guess that is kind of hard to do when you have well known turncoat Bob Ricker on your staff. Ricker you may recall used to be a gun lobbyist. Like many lobbyists, he doesn't care about the issue as long as he gets paid. The gun banners now pay him.

Anyway, Shoenke has posted a new video on the organization's web site and sent out an email recently to subscribers (I get it so I can keep up with what the other side is doing) and he spends most of his time in both trashing the NRA. Problem is, as with most other anti-gun types, he can't seem to get his facts straight. I was going to post my response to each of the errors but the good folks over at the Bitch Girls blog have beat me to it and they have done a fine job as well. You can read it here.

Beware of the Astroturf gun rights groups. They will sell us out the first chance they get. Hat tip to NRA-ILA's Grassroots Alert for the Bitch Girls post.


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