Peaceful demonstration planned outside gun show near Saline this Saturday
A group of activists says it will protest outside the Huron Gun Collectors Inc.'s gun show this Saturday near Saline.
Members of the Ann Arbor-based Interfaith Council for Peace and Justice and other concerned citizens are rallying under the name Voices for the Prevention of Gun Violence.
Representatives from the group say it wants to see an end to gun violence in the United States, and reference the more than 30,000 gun-related deaths that occur each year.
The gun show takes place at the Washtenaw Farm Council Grounds, 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Road, from 10 a.m. to noon in Lodi Township. Admission is $5.
Clarence Murdock, president of the Huron Gun Collectors and an Adrian-based gun dealer, said he's aware of the planned demonstration and he takes no offense.
"They can say whatever they want," he said. "They have the right to freedom of speech. So does everybody. Without the Second Amendment, you wouldn't have a First Amendment."
He said he's talked to the Washtenaw Farm Council and he's been assured that no demonstrators will be allowed on the actual grounds, which is private property.
"That's their call, not ours," he said.
Demonstrators are expected to wear green and hand out green ribbons as "a sign of life and an end to gun violence," organizers stated in a news release.
The group is calling on Congress to restrict the sale of high-capacity weapons and ammunition magazines, ensure background checks on all gun purchasers, and make gun trafficking a federal crime. It also supports an increase in mental health research, education and services, protection for domestic violence victims and no restrictions on national research into causes of gun violence.
Nearly six in 10 Americans want stricter gun laws in the aftermath of the Newtown shooting, with majorities favoring a nationwide ban on military-style, rapid-fire weapons and limits on gun violence depicted in video games, movies and TV shows, according to an Associated Press-GfK poll released in January. The poll showed 84 percent of adults would like to see the establishment of a federal standard for background checks for people buying guns at gun shows.
Michigan law requires background checks for anyone buying from a federally licensed firearms dealer. The same is true for handguns sold in private transactions at gun shows, but not for long guns.
In calling for universal background checks, President Barack Obama has said buyers in as many as 40 percent of firearms sales elude background scrutiny, for example through private transactions at gun shows or between acquaintances.
NRA President David Keene has said the NRA doesn't support universal background checks for firearms purchasers, pointing out that such a law in Michigan, for example, largely is ignored.
He said there will be 100 tables at Saturday's gun show, mostly professional gun dealers, including some retired police officers; and others might be selling off a family member's gun collection. He said dealers come from as far as Ohio and Indiana and all throughout Michigan.
"We run a clean show," Murdock said, adding his club donates between $5,000 and $10,000 each year for college scholarships for students and gives back to other nonprofits like the Boy Scouts.
Ryan J. Stanton covers government and politics for AnnArbor.com. Reach him at ryanstanton@annarbor.com or 734-623-2529. You also can follow him on Twitter or subscribe to AnnArbor.com's email newsletters.
Comments
Mitch
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 10:57 p.m.
I went to see if there were any protesters, the dealers said they would be there Sunday. I saw 3 county sheriff cars orbiting the fair grounds. I think they just wanted the press and got it
DJBudSonic
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 3:53 p.m.
I see nothing wrong with this protest, however, the First Amendment right they should be exercising is not free speech and peaceable assembly, it is the right to petition the government for redress of grievances. Don't like how the existing laws are barely enforced?Take this protest someplace where it will do some good, from reading these comments I think that there will be very little influencing of opinion at the Gun Show.
Mitch
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 3 a.m.
I was at this gun show and saw nothing. I was told they would be there Sunday. I do not know how I could have survived with all those guns.
Steven Taylor
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 10:11 p.m.
Well, I was at the 'fun' show this morning around 10-11am, and apparently 1... Count 'em 1 protestor was actually inside the gun show in her green shirt handing out the little green ribbons. I was disappointed as I didn't see her and wasn't able to debate her at any point. My son and I did pick up a good deal on stuff though!
Jim H
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 2:41 a.m.
By 2:30, just that one protestor much earlier. Just honest citizens, guns, and good conversation. Pretty normal.
Use Logic
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 6:54 p.m.
Can we please stop citing that 40% "statistic", regarding the number of transactions done without a background check? It is completely, totally fabricated. I shouldn't be surprised, though, anti-gunners rarely have anything else on their side. The actual number from the "study" done was 36%, but there are a number of damning problems with that "study". First, it was completed in 1994, before many provisions of the Brady Bill (passed in 1993) even took effect. Second, the sample size was a little over 500, which most statisticians will scientifically call a "crappy sample size". Third, it was done via a poll, where the question asked was (I'm not quoting here) 'Do you think a background check was completed on your firearm purchase?' Many of those transactions were done by in-home FFL holders, which did complete background checks, but due to the informal nature of the transaction, the buyer didn't think one had been done. The real number is closer to 9%. Of that, many are family-to-family transactions, which would not be prohibited by the bill circulating Congress (nor should they be). So we're really talking about a number in the very low single digits. And in the context of the current argument - reducing the number of mass shootings - not one of the high-profile mass shooters in the past 15 years obtained their weapon legally with no background check. Guys like Loughner, Holmes and Hui-Cho passed background checks. Lanza stole his, Harris and Klebold obtained theirs through straw purchases. So let's not kid ourselves that any of these tragedies - or likely any others in the future - would be prevented with the passage of his legislation.
Use Logic
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 2:40 p.m.
@PineyWoodsGuy, please re-read my comment and tell me where I am arguing for any infringement on the Second Amendment. I'll save you some time - I make no mention of that anywhere.
PineyWoodsGuy
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 5:51 a.m.
@Using "Logic," the Second Amendment does not GAF about "statistics." So What Part of "shall not be infringed" do you not understand?
Milton Shift
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 6:54 p.m.
The 2nd Amendment is not about self-defense. The 2nd Amendment is not about hunting.
Milton Shift
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 6:47 p.m.
Imagine how funny it would be: "Violent demonstration planned outside gun show."
Greg
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:40 p.m.
Believe it was last week in the news that someone had attacked a person with a knife yet again. Using same logic these rocket scientists use all the time - knives should be outlawed. Swimming pools kill more children most years than guns, where is the outcry to outlaw them??? No logic needed for wacko's incorporated.
ffej440
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:57 p.m.
Why is this the wrong place to protest ?? I know an someone who bought a gun when he was prohibited at this very location during one of these events. If you really think EVERY dealer or customer at these events are totaly above board, I can tell you for fact that is wrong.. This was about four years ago and I bet not much has changed..The someone I know did get caught for a gun violation and went to prison. The seller ?- who knows, maybe at the show today.
ffej440
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:25 p.m.
Not saying I agree with the cause, just think the location makes sense.
justcurious
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:12 p.m.
Nothing in life is 100%. That is a fact. But you don't violate everyone's rights for the actions of a few.
Major
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:44 p.m.
Your so called "Peaceful demonstration" has made me change my position and I now align with you..... Said nobody ever
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3 p.m.
Said the British to India.
Brad
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2 p.m.
Does the 5th ward's councilperson and Director of ICPJ plan on attending?
tim
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:45 p.m.
Gun rights are like a religion to some people, so when you protest that they can't practice their religion they're not going to be happy, but I say close the loophole --good for you interfaith counsel.
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:04 p.m.
I assume that "we run a clean show" means that the laws will be enforced.
tdw
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:35 p.m.
Morning....You see that's the problem.Existing laws need to be enforced first ( which they aren't ) before more laws are passed.I don't agree with it but it is the law
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:28 p.m.
tdw - I stand corrected and I do hope someone will be there enforcing the law.
tdw
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:06 p.m.
Morning.....No I am correct.TECHNICALLY in Michigan you do need a background check even on private sales.It is one of the few states that require it.Not very well known, obeyed or enforced but it is a law
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:52 p.m.
The Michigan law applies only to handguns, but you already knew that.
tdw
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:50 p.m.
What loophole are you speaking of my I ask ? According to Michigan law even private sales at gun shows require a background check, so enlighten me please
Mick52
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:29 p.m.
Great! I am glad they decided to protest which generated this story and let me know about the gun show. Headed over there to pick up a new AR-15 and extra magazines!!
jcj
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:22 p.m.
Great article to give the show free PR! There will be twice as many at the show now. Makes me think maybe the sponsors planted this seed.
buvda fray
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:10 p.m.
Logically, it would seem that protesters would spend their time picketing the "humane" people on the other side of town who are peddling pitbulls to families. Talk about introducing an uncontrolled, unregulated loaded weapon into homes all over our community...
Unusual Suspect
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:14 p.m.
mermaid, go back and do the SAT again. To make an analogy is not to state the items are equal. it is to state the relationship/relevancy between pairs of things are similar
mermaid72
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:30 p.m.
Talk about wagging the dog. What a piece of logic! Guns=pitbulls=families=humane society. Wow.
jcj
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:10 p.m.
These same protestors will stand by and not say a word about the pillage going on in City Hall.Why? Because they are their cronies and business partners.
K32
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:04 p.m.
Wow, I wasn't going to go. . . but now I will! Love these local gun shows.
YouSaidWhat?
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:57 p.m.
Well Kathy, we will meet you and defeat you. Don't be late we will be waiting.
Not from around here
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 7:28 p.m.
Why are they so scared of us that they have to harrash law abiding citizens and there families. This is the same group that told my 6 year old son that I was a murder and to be careful last time I went to a local sporting goods store to get supplies to winterize my boat during there buck pole.
Major
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:15 p.m.
Well mermaid72, for one thing, us big bad terrible gun owners are law abiding citizens. Who stand up for what's right, and our rights. Small minded sheeple who have been told lies for so long, that they think it's reality, need to be set straight and have their little bubble of deception popped...by pulling the wool off their eyes! It's not fear, it seeing wrong and trying to right it!
mermaid72
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:41 p.m.
Why are you so afraid of others who have a different opinion about guns than you do? Why do you feel it necessary to threaten others? Very interesting!!!
Ryan J. Stanton
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:52 p.m.
Elsewhere in Michigan on the debate around guns ... did you guys catch the story out of Caro about the school confiscating cupcakes decorated with toy soldiers? http://radio.foxnews.com/toddstarnes/top-stories/school-confiscates-cupcakes-decorated-with-toy-soldiers.html
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:46 p.m.
What do you expect from government run schools. The Department of Education needs to be abolished. The sole purpose of the D of E is to dumbing down our kids and indoctrinating them. Look at what has happened since the D of E took over education. We went from number 1 in the world in education to now number 19. This is not a mistake. It is on purpose.
Mick52
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:32 p.m.
Also a student was harassed for wearing his US Marines T shirt: http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/lookout/father-asks-school-rethink-dress-code-son-told-180721078.html
a2citizen
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:17 p.m.
It comes with the territory. I don't wonder why private schools exists.
tdw
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:09 p.m.
Yes I saw it.Schools are losing their minds.I saw one where kids were sent home because they were playing bang bang with their fingers.I bought MY son a shotgun when he was in 6th or 7th grade.He drew a picture of it in art class.It was nothing bad,violent or intimidating, just a drawing ( and a pretty darn good drawing I might add ) and he got sent to down to the Principle.The Principle just basically just laughed and sent him back to class
walker101
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:50 p.m.
Why don't they protest local bar clubs, more people are killed by drinking or killing innocent citizens everyday from alcohol.
Basic Bob
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:38 p.m.
Why don't they protest marijuana dispensaries? A nasty bunch of criminals there.
David Paris
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:07 p.m.
Yes, because the last time they tried that, it worked out really well, didn't it!
walker101
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:45 p.m.
All the more reason to buy a gun.
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:42 p.m.
Please, and honest question to all of the folks replying to this thread. How many of you know someone who has had to use a gun in self defense? I have many pro gun friends and family, and i do not want to take away their second amendment rights. I have also personally known several people who have committed suicide with a gun and two attempted homicides, but not one person who has had the need to protect themselves with a gun. All I want to do is know that if my loved one is struggling with mental illness, they can't just go down the street to a neighbor who doesn't know the situation and buy a gun, no questions asked.
Not from around here
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 7:25 p.m.
Three times for me. I used to drive trucks into flint and Saginaw to do early morning deliveries. Twice groups of young men (more than 4) tried to rob me because they thought I carried cash. I was forced to unholster my gun and they ran like scared rabbits. In both of these cases they had kitchen knives Last one was in ann arbor deliving food to a local co-op. Just the sight of it in on my hip was enough to get them to back off. Never had to fire a shot and I'm glad I didn't. Now this was 25 years ago. I don't carry concelled now but many people I know do.
clara
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 8:37 p.m.
Yes, and he dropped his knife and ran away!
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:12 p.m.
Thank you Clara. Did you draw your weapon in the Meijer case? I too have had a close call in that parking lot.
clara
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:47 p.m.
I have twice, once in Detroit once out in front of Meijers on Carpenter. In Detroit I only had to pull, point and order and he backed down, but the DPD who responded said if I shot him it would have been a justifiable shooting.
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:36 p.m.
Thank you Major. I appreciate your response. And thank you tdw for the additional information.
tdw
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:14 p.m.
Morning...one time yes and lets just say he has no chance of ever pointing a gun at someone or committing a crime again.The other time no
Major
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:06 p.m.
In the last twenty years, I've protected my family once, 20 years ago someone tried to kick in the back door in the middle of the the night in Ann Arbor, my gun not fired, perp soiled self upon seeing gun. 8 years ago, again in Ann Arbor at a car wash, two perps attempted to rob me at quarter wash, my gun not fired, two perps soled self upon seeing gun. Beyond that I have heard of many, many self defense uses, in the AA area alone. Just because YOU don't hear about it, doesn't make it so!
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:44 p.m.
@G. Orwell - again, not talking about banning anything here. I just want it to be easier to keep guns out of the hands of those struggling with mental illness and substance abuse, in addition to making it easier for them to get treatment. The impulsivity of suicide, and the easy availability and lethality of guns make for a dangerous combination. I truly hope your "insurance" never backfires on you, the way I have seen it backfire on others. @tdw - just curious if the two times you used a gun in self defense we're connected to your job as a cop?
tdw
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:24 p.m.
Morning....I appreciate your sympathy but not to sound cold but I didn't like her anyway ( I sure as hell didn't want her to be murdered though.)But it did really hurt my mom and her sister and brothers.They had to lie to my grandma about it.But my point is that if someone wants to kill themselves they will do it with or with out a gun.I worked in a hospital at one time and I was cop.I have seen several suicides by hanging, slit wrists, overdose and one by running a car in a closed garage
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:08 p.m.
Thank you tdw, I'm sorry for the loss of your aunt. YouSaidWhat - firearms are by far the most common choice for suicide in the US and the most likely to result in death. http://www.suicide.org/suicide-statistics.html
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:04 p.m.
@MorningGlory It is truly tragic when anyone commits suicide. But, your reasoning and solution is impractical. If guns were not available, they'd use knifes, drugs, cars (CO), ropes, etc. Are you going to ban all these items? Also, has your house burned down before. Most likely not. Chance of that happening is minuscule. It may never happen. So, why do nearly all homeowners have property insurance? Owning a gun is like having insurance but more important. With insurance it is about preserving your wealth. With a gun it is about preserving your life and liberty. Far more valuable. I hope you will understand some day.
YouSaidWhat?
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:59 p.m.
Fact: Most people who commit suicide do not use a gun. When will the call for banning garages and step ladders come??????????????
tdw
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:54 p.m.
I have. Twice.And have at least 1 friend who has.As far a suicides go, if someone really wants to do it they will, gun or no gun.I had a aunt who was murdered by her own son and he slit her throat with a knife
Mike
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 11:48 a.m.
They need to stand outside of a prison and protest violence. Leave the law abiding citizens who may someday save your butt from the types that are in prison alone.
Mick52
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:33 p.m.
Excellent idea.
motorcycleminer
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 11:45 a.m.
" My momma says stupid is as stupid does " .... thank you Forrest I think that nicely sums it up....
glimmertwin
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 11:19 a.m.
The show dates you published are incorrect. From their web site: SHOW DATES & TIMES SAT 9 AM - 4 PM / SUN 9 AM - 3PM
Mike
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 11:50 a.m.
I wonder if that is the time the protestors will be there? And if AA.com will fix it?
Chris Blackstone
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 10:17 a.m.
By this logic, their next protest should be at the Detroit International Auto Show next January since 33,808 were killed by car crashes in 2009 alone (http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/2012/tables/12s1103.pdf). That's significantly more than the 11,07 firearms homicides in 2010 (http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/homicide.htm)
Not from around here
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 7:18 p.m.
Mermaid, a little education goes a long way. Guns are made for a lot of things, hunting, protections and just plain FUN! My collection containes many firearms that have historical significance that I get a kick out of taking to the range an enjoying of the hundered of guns I've owned, collected and shot guess what...None of them have ever been use3d to Kill! See if you can rap your head arround that !
djm12652
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:11 p.m.
I have owned a number of weapons in my life...and never killed a person...but love target shooting
mermaid72
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:42 p.m.
Didn't realize that the purpose of cars was to kill. Silly me! Aren't guns made for killing?
Hot Sam
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:59 a.m.
If I was in town I'd be there... at the show!
PineyWoodsGuy
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4 a.m.
Forget Clarence Murdock (Adrian gun dealer, in the Raisin River watershed, he be the "President" of "Huron Gun Collectors Inc."). (the Huron River be a long way from Adrian). Commentors, kindly reply to the following two questions: 1. Can a college legally prohibit an enrolled student from bringing textbooks to campus, concealed in a book bag? 2. Can a gun dealer legally prohibit a citizen who has passed the state-mandated training in firearm safety and usage and has been issued a Concealed Pistol License (CPL) by the State of Michigan and the gun dealer is not conducting business in a Tavern, Church or School, prohibit the CPL holder from carrying a handgun, concealed in a holster under his coat, to his for-profit gun "show?" Yins tell me!!! (Well. Maybe prohibit a Ruger .44, but surely not a S&W .38 snubby. Dig?).
Major
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:59 p.m.
The Farm Council Grounds is on the "do not patronize while armed list", so yes, it is their policy. http://www.mcrgo.org/mcrgo/d_no_gun_signs.asp
Steven Taylor
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:18 a.m.
Private property rights trump our right to concealed carry. and it may very well be the policy of the Wash. Farm Council Grounds, I'm not one hundred percent sure but thats the impression I get.. Same reason, if a cpl holder is asked to leave because someone noticed their heater or if said individual 'open carries' the property owner has the right to ask them to leave, or the cpl holder can be charged with misdemeanor trespass.
snapshot
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:56 a.m.
I wonder how many of these protestors are veterans or have family that are veterans.
K32
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:06 p.m.
Very very few.
mermaid72
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:25 p.m.
Here's one! Here's also one that had a relative (also a veteran) killed by a drunken hunter. You totally missed the point of being against gun violence, but then that is understandable.
zigziggityzoo
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:36 a.m.
Protesting the people who don't commit violence is probably not gonna help end violence.
djm12652
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:09 p.m.
awww...zig...don't go getting all logical on us...they can't deal with logic
Robert Northrup
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:06 a.m.
I noticed this interesting gun show rule on the Huron Gun Collectors Inc website: "No concealed firearms allowed to be carried by any person, vendors or dealers, except for show security and police officers with badge and I.D." They're going to piss off the Second Amendment advocates with that rule! What if there are too many bad men with guns who start shooting, and they outnumber the security officers? Will vendors have time to load their weapons and return fire? Wouldn't it be safer if every good person was carrying concealed weapons, to prevent any number of bad people who might open fire? I believe it was Rodney King who said, "Can't we all just sell more guns?"
DonBee
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 10:41 p.m.
Mr. Northrup - That rule is more to prevent "shoplifting" than anything else. If the holster has to be empty going in, then it has to be empty going out. That means that there is much less chance of someone taking a gun out of the show without the right paperwork being done first.
jcj
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:15 p.m.
Robert Please bring a logical argument to the table.
Honest Abe
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:44 a.m.
@Robert- Will you be at the protest? If so, I'll keep my eye out for the guy protesting with the huge red hair on the sides and a big round red nose and face paint.
Steven Taylor
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:11 a.m.
Mr. Northrup, what you mention is policy in nearly each and every gun show.
Honest Abe
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:24 a.m.
When is the protest against Mcdonalds and Burger King coming? More people die every year from obesity caused from poor eating habits than from a gun. FACT! Perhaps eating a burger and fries will be illegal!? Why don't we just strip everyones rights, accept living under a 'police state' and let the government make decisions for us!!?? Over my dead body.
Hunterjim
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:12 p.m.
I think it is in NYC:-)
Brad
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:22 p.m.
... when they pry my Big Mac from my cold, dead fingers!
Honest Abe
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:39 a.m.
Robert Northrup: Believe it or not, greasy burgers cause more deaths, than guns. Seems you have a hard time accepting that.
Robert Northrup
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:06 a.m.
Burgers are perfectly analogous to guns. FACT!
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:15 a.m.
Anti-gun people really have no grasp of the purpose of the 2nd Amendment. If they did and knew history, they'd go out and purchase guns themselves.
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 6:29 p.m.
@Basic There is a thing called practice. Based on your logic, people shouldn't do anything that could cause injury to themselves or others. Bad drivers should not drive, bad skiers should not ski, etc. Wouldn't it be better if people try to improve themselves. Also, learning gun safety and how to shoot is like learning to swim. You never know when you will need it.
Basic Bob
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 5:47 p.m.
People who can't hit a target should not be encouraged to own guns.
Tru2Blu76
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:10 a.m.
RE: "Nearly six in 10 Americans want stricter gun laws in the aftermath of the Newtown shooting, with..." That leaves a "minority" of 40% - even if the poll (conducted by that paragon of journalistic accuracy, AP - HAH!) is correct, unbiased and honestly done. Just a reminder: self defense is a human right and the 2nd Amendment is not about human rights, it's about the necessity of having an armed volunteer force to protect our country. That 40% minority compares very favorably with a much smaller (~12.5%) minority human rights movement- led by someone named Martin Luther King. Only OUR minority is 3.2 TIMES LARGER. Also worth mentioning: the Democratic Party & its candidates owe a number of electoral victories to that 12.5% minority. Without that 12.5% minority, the Dems would be net losers instead. So guess which party backs the 40% minority fighting for the human right to self defense? It's not the Democratic Party, you can ask "retiring" Senator Levin if you don't believe me. As for these self-styled "brave anti-gun-owner heroes," whose stated mission seems to be to deny an essential human right and taunt the "40% minority" with their presence (and apparently with their "deadly jeers"), many people don't see them as heroes at all. Paraphrasing George Orwell's ironic line: "War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength. And Opinion is fact." I hope none of the anti-gun-owner types stub their toe at the fairgrounds tomorrow. Because they'll surely blame it on guns. ;-)
Basic Bob
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 5:45 p.m.
@Unusual Suspect, Please explain the constitutional basis of the Kent State shootings. Federal soldiers shooting at American citizens. Or was it the well regulated militia putting down an insurrection. In either case it was tyranny by the government which was unopposed by private gun owners.
Unusual Suspect
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:07 p.m.
David, the standing army only protects us from external attack. It cannot be used internally, according to the Constitution.
David Paris
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:58 p.m.
"Just a reminder: self defense is a human right and the 2nd Amendment is not about human rights, it's about the necessity of having an armed volunteer force to protect our country." This point alone makes the 2nd Amendment obsolete, since we now have a standing army in place that was not affordable at the time the amendment was written. Thanks for pointing that out!
David
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 6:26 a.m.
Are you suggesting that only Blacks supported the civil rights movement, that no other races supported it? I don't know the numbers, but I suspect a much larger percent of the population supported civil rights in the 1950's and 1960's. I have no idea whether civil rights or gun rights were more popular with the populace (when comparing gun rights today to civil rights in the 50's and 60's), but I'm fairly certain gun owners have never been treated as second class citizens (or not even citizens). Please don't belittle the sacrifices of those involved in the civil rights movement by pretending gun rights is equivalent.
An Arborigine
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:21 a.m.
If you are insinuating that these protestors represent the Democratic party, I must disagree, this group is comprised of zealots, I'm a Democrat and I am pro-gun rights!
Brad
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:58 a.m.
"buyers in as many as 40 percent of firearms sales elude background scrutiny, for example through private transactions at gun shows or between acquaintances." They "elude" scrutiny? No, they just participate in common transactions that are not subjected to scrutiny. "Elude" makes it sound they they have some nefarious purpose.
Ricebrnr
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:28 p.m.
Deal I guess 0% it is. And here I thought anti gunners were unreasonable.
Brad
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:58 p.m.
Having said that, I don't think there should be an easy path to avoid (or elude) scrutiny like there is now. It makes no sense at all. You should either check 100% or 0%.
zigziggityzoo
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:37 a.m.
the 40% number was a pre-1994 brady bill survey. In other words, its estimates were before ANY purchases were subjected to a background check.
An Arborigine
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:57 a.m.
Isn't this the same group that protests at a synagogue weekly and advocates anti-semitic advertising on AATA busses? I think it's a grand time for a demonstration of Michigan's Open Carry Law, anyone agree?
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:56 p.m.
No. It is not the same group. Interfaith Council for Peace ans Justice has asked Jewish Witnesses for Peace and Friends to STOP their protests at Beth Israel. http://www.annarbor.com/news/interfaith-council-for-peace-and-justice-asks-protestors-to-end-weekly-picket-outside-of-synagogue/
Honest Abe
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:46 a.m.
When and where....and I'm there!
a2citizen
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:47 a.m.
Thank God for the 1st Amendment and the right to free speech. Of course though, without the 2nd Amendment the 1st Amendment would probably have been repealed a long, long time ago.
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:46 a.m.
"The group is calling on Congress to restrict the sale of high-capacity weapons and ammunition magazines, ensure background checks on all gun purchasers, and make gun trafficking a federal crime." The Interfaith Council is protesting at the wrong location. They need to go to the White House. Obama and Eric Holder got caught shipping thousands of assault rifles to drug lords in Mexico. Many of these guns were used to kill 60,000 Mexicans and a few of our boarder patrol. The program was called, " Fast and Furious," and the purpose was to blame our 2nd Amendment. Again, before you hound law abiding people, go protest those that actually committed the crime. Some of these anti-gun people are hypocrites.
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:12 p.m.
@leaguebus I know it started under Bush. However, Obama greatly expanded it and got caught. Bush and Obama are working together to take away our 2nd Amendment. As well as our 4th, 1st, and nearly all of our Bill of Rights. Why do you think no one was fired or went to jail. Trafficking guns to drug cartel! The drug cartel we control.
leaguebus
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:20 p.m.
What you forget to mention, George, is that the program you mentioned started during the Bush administration. It was trying to find out about straw purchases of assault weapons and what eventually happen to them. Straw purchases are still a problem but now, nothing is done about it.
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:32 p.m.
@jcj I say some because some are just ignorant. You can thank our government run schools for the ignorance.
jcj
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:19 p.m.
Orwell I take only one issue with your statement. You said: Some of these anti-gun people are hypocrites. I say : MOST of these anti-gun people are hypocrites.
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:13 p.m.
@snapshot All the facts I stated are public record and in the media for months. Haven't you been following the news?
snapshot
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:47 a.m.
Orwell, if you were constipated you'd find a way to blame Obama........I suggest you take a liberal dose of knowledge that might lead to something like accurate information.
G. Orwell
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:25 a.m.
While you are at it, Interfaith, please ask Senator Diane Feinstein and rest of the gun grabbers to turn their guns in and fire their bodyguards. They should lead by example. One more thing, tell the criminals in DC, insider trading of stocks is ILLEGAL. It is not legal when they do it. I believe Feinstein"s wealth increased from under $1.0 million when she became senator, to now, she is worth somewhere around $150 million. I wonder how many offshore accounts she has.
YpsiCityMomma
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:43 a.m.
Considering there are two events going on at this location tomorrow, things are going to be fun! Bring it on, protesters!
Honest Abe
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:36 a.m.
I want gun violence to end, too! So let me guess, I should just lay down and give up my 2nd amendment RIGHTS??!! Not a chance!! Sorry, I will never give up my rights nor will I lick anyone's boots. How is a protest at a gun show protesting against gun violence. If someone has bead intentions with a firearm, most likely they're not going to go through the legal and proper channels it takes to obtain a gun. These protesters are going to come out and waste their time, barking up the wrong tree! It makes no sense to protest law abiding citizens who are going to a gun show. If you want to protest, go where most of the gun violence is! Say, the slums of Detroit!?
Unusual Suspect
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:02 p.m.
"but the NRA" - whose members are the American people who agree with them -- "gun manufacturers" -- whose customers are the American people who have a right to but their products, even if you don't like it if they buy them and have an are afraid of their products.
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:24 p.m.
No one is taking away your second amendment rights. We all want the same thing, but the NRA has dominated the conversation for too long and are beholden to gun manufacturers. Obviously the status quo is not working. I'm happy to see that this group has included mental health research and domestic violence programs in their conversation as well, but let's face the facts, guns are part of the equation.
Honest Abe
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:40 a.m.
**REVISED** I want gun violence to end, too! So let me guess, I should just lay down and give up my 2nd amendment RIGHTS??!! Not a chance!! Sorry, I will never give up my rights nor will I lick anyone's boots. How is a protest at a gun show protesting against gun violence?? If someone has bad intentions with a firearm, most likely they're not going to go through the legal and proper channels it takes to obtain a gun. These protesters are going to come out and waste their time, barking up the wrong tree! It makes no sense to protest law abiding citizens who are going to a gun show. I also bet most of them are a bunch of extreme left wing liberals, who know nothing about guns. Perhaps these protesters should realize they're protesting against my rights! Whether it's against gun violence or not, they're picking the wrong location. If you want to protest, go where most of the gun violence is! Say, the slums of Detroit!?
TommyJ
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:29 a.m.
I'll be at the Novi gun show on Sat. Much bigger and better stuff there.
Hunterjim
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:33 a.m.
Not the point Tommy....
PineyWoodsGuy
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:25 a.m.
Don't know if this applies to the dialogue. You decide: "When neither their property nor their honor is touched, the majority of men live content." — Machiavelli
suswhit
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 11:52 a.m.
Machiavellian = corrupt government. Ha ha. You so funny.
Justavoice
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:21 a.m.
On one hand what they say they speak for sounds reasonable, but the quotes above echo anti 2nd amendment. I hear peaceful, but its sounds like they are looking to pick a fight. There gripe isn't with gun owners but the government, if they say they actually represent what they say and not a larger agenda, Wasn't going to go to the show, but may be I should now.
Steven Taylor
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:14 a.m.
Mr. Stanton, before you quote numbers like 60% favoring such gun control measures, you'd be wise to check the sources of such numbers. As for the trotted out number of 30K gun deaths.. the CDC counts it a tad differently http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/homicide.htm. Showing the number to be south of the 12K number in the homicide category, gun control advocates conflate that number to include suicides. The numbers for suicide totals is north of 38K of which 19K are classified as firearm related. All the gun control advocates propose is taking tools away from law abiding citizens. And do NOTHING to solve the crime problem and enforcement of already existing laws on the books.
ffej440
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:44 p.m.
It is very odd that so many are outraged enough to speak out, yet say nothing about enforcement of current law. I think this is the common ground we ALL can agree on and should focus our attention.
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:13 p.m.
Reducing gun deaths means more than just focusing on homicides and crime, it also means reducing the number of deaths by suicide and accidents. I don't understand your belief that suicides should be left out of that number. Do the families of those who die from suicide grieve less than those who die from homicide? Research has shown that suicide is often an impulsive act, and that the easy availability if a gun makes it more likely that a depressed individual will attempt suicide and also more likely that they will succeed.
Steven Taylor
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:17 a.m.
Because it conflates to numbers to provoke a response. DUI traffic Fatalities, does MADD conflate total nationwide fatalities to their DUI fatalities numbers.. No.. They dont. They also don't blame the tool and seek to regulate high performance vehicles.. They seek to enforce laws against the DRIVER..again, a gun is a tool, just like a car. I say we limit high capacity assault words, all internet communications will be limited to the twitter compound of 140 characters or less. People can be hurt or bullied by others on the internet, it's for the ChIldren! See I can be a control advocate to.. and not do anything to solve the problem, but put an undue stress on those expressing their constitutional rights.. Oh.. I can do the gun control advocates one better. Lets ban murder! Oh... Wait.... Or Drugs.... Oh.... dang it!.
Robert Northrup
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 2:59 a.m.
Why should gun suicides be excluded from the total number of gun deaths per year?
cibachrome
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:13 a.m.
Their mission would be better served and more important if they would go to the city of Detroit and hand out their ribbons. THAT's the audience that needs to be reached. They are "preaching to the choir". Not likely, though. They are much safer at a gun show... So much for the courage of their convictions.
Mike
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 11:46 a.m.
They won't gp tp Detroit, they're too afraid.............isn't that ironic.
M
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:52 a.m.
In a delicious bit of irony, I was not going to attend this, since I didn't know about it. Now that the anti-gun nuts made a stink, I know about it, and will attend, and if I see something I like - I'll buy it.
Not from around here
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 7:09 p.m.
how elist of you mermaid-I'm sure you can afford to live in any gated community you like, some of us have to go with what we can afford, then defend our self from the product of liberals decisions from far away from the fray
mermaid72
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 1 p.m.
Well djm, most people would try and find a safer neighborhood to live in. But if violence is not a problem for you, buy a gun. Hope you know how to use it correctly and safely.
djm12652
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:58 p.m.
hey mermaid72...in my highrise apartment building alone this last week, a drug dealer was arrested, and two of my neighbors robbed...and I live right downtown, not in a bad area...so yep... this old broad may just have to go and get a new weapon to defend my home!
mermaid72
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:19 p.m.
How delicious that you will buy another gun, I'm sure that you will need it to protect yourself against the hordes of barbarians at the gates of Ann Arbor.
Born_'N_Bred
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 4:26 a.m.
I don't live in the area, and didn't know about the show either, but I believe I might just come down and have a look...lol
justcurious
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 1:25 a.m.
lol
Unusual Suspect
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:50 a.m.
"Representatives from the group say it wants to see an end to gun violence in the United States" Uh... everybody wants to see and end to gun violence. And not just in the United States.
Greg
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:47 a.m.
So they are going to try to intimidate those who would go??? Real A2 logic at work.
djm12652
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 3:56 p.m.
Not intimidated...just slightly offended by the patchouli aroma....
MorningGlory
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:15 p.m.
You are intimidated by unarmed people handing out ribbons?
Unusual Suspect
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:52 a.m.
They're going to hand out green ribbons. Then people will say to themselves, "This green ribbon has made me change my mind about going to the gun show."
Ricebrnr
Sat, Mar 9, 2013 : 12:37 a.m.
Sounds like a call to arms for those that believe in the 2nd AND 1st Amendments
Stupid Hick
Sun, Mar 10, 2013 : 3:31 p.m.
LOL. That's right, arm yourself with some ribbons and organize a counter protest.