A little levity

Ok, that last post got my blood pressure going. For a little comic relief, check this out...

News Roundup

Lots going on here deserving of comment....

To start with, keeping it light, it would appear there's a new dance craze in good ole gay Paree. And when I say gay, I really mean gay. Come on mon amis. Ya'll are starting to come around with Sarkozy, but if you ever want to regain any sort of national pride, let's give up this Tecktonik crap.



News flash, bubba. Parachute pants went out of style in the 80s... and yeah, you look somewhat less than masculine.


Next up, Peter King hits the proverbial nail on the proverbial head. There are too many radical islamists in this country. ONE is too many. Since the vast majority of muslims consider themselves muslims first and Americans second (in stark contrast to the rest of this fine country, by the way...) and since it is a stated goal of the islamists to destroy America and create a caliphate from sea to sea, then yeah, we should be looking VERY hard at mosques and the ones that are supportive of the islamists should be shut down. Period.



Rock on, Pete.

And in the "you gotta be shittin' me" category, Oregon is adapting MEXICAN curriculum for its students. Yes, you read that right. An American state (several actually, much to my chagrin) is actually importing a curriculum from Mexico to teach its Latino students. Whatever happened to immersion? I mean, if I wanted to improve my paltry Spanish, I'd go live in Mexico or some other South American country for a while and speak nothing but Spanish until I was fluent. Is there a better way to do this? So clearly, this program is not intended to teach the students English. If it was, you wouldn't see any of this touchy feely bullshit. Instead, the kids would be taught in English, and English only. My grandparents on my mother's side were first generation Italian Americans. I heard several accounts growing up from my grandfather who told me if his father ever caught him speaking Italian outside of the house, he would get a massive ass whipping. It was quite clear to my grandfather that it was learn English, or else. Where did those days go?

Switching subjects before I pop a blood vessel, the punk in chief of Iran is somehow surprised that we would be offended by his visit to the WTC. He says, and I quote "his intention was only to show respect." Here's the question, slimeball - respect to who? The terrorists who flew the planes? This guy is a total thug, the Hitler of our time, and we're STILL going to let him come into the country. Insane.

And finally, is anyone really surprised that another Clinton fundraiser is behind bars? I'm sure the Hildabeast will get a pass from our chums in the mainstream media, but I mean, come on people - wake up!

Nice headline

You'd think someone at the Chattanoogan would see this and go, "Hmmm. Maybe not a great layout."

Iran tests new homemade fighter jets

The jets are called Saegheh, part of Iran's generation of Azarakhsh fighters, the report said.

Both words mean lightning in Farsi.

Iranian defense officials said the new aircraft are similar to the U.S. F-18 fighter plane but more powerful, although technical comparisons weren't given.

By "more powerful" they mean "explodes more easily when shot down from 100 miles away by U.S. fighters."

Glad I could clear that up for you.

Iran Leader Denied on WTC Wreath Request

Why we let this jackass into the country at all is absolutely beyond me.

His plane should be shot down as soon as it leaves Iranian airspace.

France warning of war with Iran

Well, if this isn't a sign of the impending Apocalypse, I don't know what is. The French are rattling their plastic sabers with respect to Iran.

All kidding aside, I gotta give props to Kouchner.

French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner says the world should prepare for war over Iran's nuclear programme.

There has been quite a bit of scuttlebutt and rumor-mongering with respect to American plans for a 3-6 day military offensive that would ostensibly render the Iranian military useless (or more useless than they are now). It would appear that the French also sense that a nuclear jihad would be very bad for the rest of the world.

Here's the part that scares me worse than any war with Iran: Iran with nuclear capability. Does anyone doubt that those pedantic Persians would foist their beliefs on the world on the tip of a nuclear warhead? I think this is one of those moments in history where a decisive military operation would be for the greater good of the planet. Hell, when the FRENCH think it's a good idea, what does THAT tell you? Nonetheless, it scares the crap out of me. Between the USA, Russia, Israel, Syria, Korea, Iran, India, Pakistan, and yes, China, this has all the elements of a bad sci-fi flick.

A new toy for Outlaw 13

The number of video terminals that display live imagery beamed from UAVs has jumped to 1,000, up from 200 six months ago, he said. They are installed in Stryker vehicles on their way to Iraq, and should be in Apache cockpits by next summer, said Kim Henry, a spokeswoman at the Army’s Redstone Arsenal, Ala.

Hopefully, Outlaw 13 won't have to go back to the sandbox to play with this new technology and can just fly about the hills and valleys around Central Texas with the new gadget.

On the plus side, looks like the UAV have started taking out scumbags who are busy planting roadside bombs...

When Army scouts in Iraq spotted two men planting a roadside bomb Sept. 1, they called in a nearby Hunter unmanned aircraft, which dropped a laser-guided bomb and killed the two men.

2007 USPSA Nationals Video!

Here's the full contents of a DVD that our great friend and teammate Bruce made for us. It's Pimp Daddy, thegirl, Catfish, JR, and the Super Squad. Bruce got about 15 of our stages and a few of the supers. Use the comments tags to skip from shooter to shooter. Take note of the rainy stages in particular.

Thanks, Bruce!

Thompson speaks against gun control

We finally have someone running for the Republican ticket who is firmly against gun control. And it's about damn time!

On the day South Florida mourned a slain police officer, Republican presidential candidate Fred Thompson stopped in Miami and stuck firmly to his guns over what he says is the unnecessary call for limiting the right to bear arms.

''I do not think that abrogating Second Amendment rights is a good idea,'' the Republican said at the Versailles restaurant in Little Havana.

''The amount of violence created on the street by these kinds of weapons is very, very small,'' Thompson said. ``It's too bad. It's horrendous. Any kind -- whether it's a knife or an IED or a gun -- innocent people, especially law enforcement officers, are vulnerable all the time; we know that. But on balance, you've got to ask what is good for society and what does the Second Amendment say.''

2007 USPSA Nats - Super Squad Video

If you'd like to see some pretty cool video of the super squad, see what I have, and also check out thegirl's video.

Nothing to see here, move along

I'm sure this jackass was just out enjoying the scenery.... I'm sure his muslim faith and his support of terrorist organizations had nothing to do with his little jaunt through the woods.

USPSA 2007 Limited/Production/Revolver Nationals

We're back. Once we've caught our breath, we're going to have beaucoup video and photos to share. One of our esteemed bloggers even came back from her first USPSA Nationals with a trophy!

Here's a sneak preview of some of the fun we endured:

Minnesota Toe Licker Nabbed

Best. Mugshot. EVER.

Swallow your drink, then click the link.

The World's Most Versatile Rifle

Good article by Mike Bane on the black rifle. Maybe the NRA BoD needs to read it?

They're accurate, they're customizable and they're fun to shoot. Why you're going to see more AR-style rifles in the woods this fall.

Truck Accident Kills 72 in India's North

Wow. That just makes me sikh.

California takes the lead

Anyone surprised that Kalifornia has taken the lead (again) in anti gun legislation?

California would be the first state to require that every semiautomatic handgun cartridge be stamped with an identifying mark if the governor signs a bill that has now cleared both chambers of the Legislature.

Yeah, that won't make every existing semi-auto pistol in California against the law and it won't make any pistols equipped with this insanity too expensive for ordinary Joes to own. And, just to show you the insantity, and the stupidity, of the whackos in Kalifornia, someone, anyone, please tell me how you can tell the difference between a cartridge meant to be fired out of an auto loader and one fired from a revolver. Bueller? Bueller? Bueller?

The measure would require that, starting in 2010, every semiautomatic handgun sold in California would have to automatically "microstamp" each bullet cartridge in two locations as it is fired. The microscopic stamping would identify the gun's make, model and serial number.

I gaurantee you if this bill passes it will not be long before semi-auto rifles and shotguns will be required to have the same "microstamp" ability.

In addition to pricing new pistols out of the market for most of us, it will also make handloading just about impossible. Sounds like the microstamp would be imprinted on the primer. Wonder how much those little jewels will cost and if they will even be made available to the general public.

And are you surprised that this bill is also being considered on the Federal level?

A federal bill, modeled on California's, is being considered by Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., and Rep. Xavier Becerra, D-Los Angeles.

Senator Kennedy. He's my hero.

Yeah, right.

Thrown off plane for outfit deemed too skimpy

Follow up: VIDEO - watch it.

Um, yeah - the skirt's pretty short. But at least she's wearing white panties, and not going clamando!

The Elite: Lanny Bassham

Lanny has got to be one of the greatest "can do" authors out there. For the shooting world, his mental managment system works miracles.

I can't recommend his principles enough. Stop by and tell him hi, you'll find it's worth the visit, and you don't have to be a shooter. If you compete, his system works.

95% of all winning is accomplished by only 5% of the participants. We call this group the elite. Why and how are they able to win so often? Is it because they are just talented or in the right place at the right time? What about opportunity? What role does wealth play in winning?

I've interviewed hundreds of the elite and I do not find an abundance of either natural ability or wealth to be a common denominator. You would think that expensive sports like shotgun and 300m free rifle would have more rich-kids at the top of the ranks and that just doesn't seem to be true. Many of our champions were trained by the military which is open to all. To be certain we have some wealthy in our ranks but do not think that your pocketbook is always the limiting factor to success. I can name more elite shooters coming from modest incomes than from wealth ones. Talent is a short term advantage and is soon overcome by hard work.

Common traits of the elite are abundant desire, an expectation to win, discipline, willingness to work hard, a belief that they can and will attain elite status no matter the obstacles and an almost religious calling to the sport. We can debate whether these traits are ones we are born with or ones we acquire. I think it might be a little bit of both along with a dash of fate thrown in. Just as soon as you think that someone has no chance to win because of no natural ability or financial status they somehow seem to win anyway.

I am certain of one thing. Winning belongs to those who think about the process of winning, who just cannot stand not to be among the elite and are ready to take action today to make it happen. This year I hope you find yourself among those on the winner's road. It is surely a narrower way but worth the trip.

The Next Zumbo

Watch this:



Now, read this:

Recently, some misunderstandings have arisen about a news interview in which I participated a few years ago. After recently watching a tape of that interview, I understand the sincere concerns of many people, including dear friends of mine. And I am pleased and eager to clear up any confusion about my long held belief in the sanctity of the Second Amendment.

In the interview, when asked about my views of “assault weapons,” I was talking about true assault weapons – fully automatic firearms. I was not speaking, in any way, about semiautomatic rifles. While the media may not understand this critical distinction, I take it very seriously. But, as a result, I understand how some people may mistakenly take my comments to mean that I support a ban on civilian ownership of semiautomatic firearms. Nothing could be further from the truth. And, unfortunately, the interview was cut short before I could fully explain my thoughts and beliefs.

In fact, I am a proud owner of such rifles, as are millions of law-abiding Americans. And many Americans also enjoy owning fully automatic firearms, after being cleared by a background check and meeting the rigorous regulations to own such firearms. And these millions of lawful gun owners have every right – and a Second Amendment right – to own them.

As a hunter, I take great pride in my marksmanship. Every hunter should practice to be skilled to take prey with a single shot, if possible. That represents ethical, humane, skilled hunting. In the interview several years ago, I spoke about this aspect of hunting and my belief that no hunter should take the field and rely upon high capacity magazines to take their prey.

But that comment should never be mistaken as support for the outright banning of any ammunition magazines. In fact, such bans have been pursued over the years by state legislatures and the United States Congress and these magazine bans have always proven to be abject failures.

Let me be very clear. As a retired Texas Ranger, during 36 years of law enforcement service, I was sworn to uphold the United States Constitution. As a longtime hunter and shooter, an NRA Board Member, and as an American – I believe the Second Amendment is a sacred right of all law-abiding Americans and, as I stated in the interview in question, I believe it is the Second Amendment that ensures all of our other rights handed down by our Founding Fathers.

I have actively opposed gun bans and ammunition and magazine bans in the past, and I will continue to actively oppose such anti-gun schemes in the future.

I appreciate my friends who have brought this misunderstanding to light, for it has provided me an opportunity to alleviate any doubts about my strong support for the NRA and our Second Amendment freedom.

Do you feel like you misunderstood what he said?

In my opinion, it was pretty damn clear. This fellow, on the NRA Board, shows disdain for civilian ownership of "assault weapons", unless they are limited to 5 rounds. Unfortunately, his disdain is typical of many law enforcement officers. Not all, grant you, but a lot. His disdain of the evil assault weapon is also very typical of the attitude that hunters take towards anyone else who owns a gun.

Let's be clear:

The 2nd Ammendment was not written to protect the ability of the state to own firearms. It was not written to protect hunting rights. The 2nd Ammendment is there to protect me and you from an oppressive government. Period. End of Story.

For the record, this interview was done in 2005. Why it's making the rounds on the internets now is anyone's guess, but it is. And this jackass needs to be booted off the NRA Board. Also for the record, it's bullshit like this that explains why I'm no longer a member of the NRA.

Amazing truck crash photos spark Web debate

Holy caramba. This is pretty crazy.

Investigators estimated that the truck was traveling about 75 mph when it crashed through a concrete barricade separating the road from a roughly 200-foot precipice running alongside State Route 59.

What happened next has been described on Internet messages boards as "impossible," "crazy" and "insane." One Web site ran the photos under the headline, "I bet this guy will be in church Sunday!"

So stunning are the photos on the myth-buster sites that many people posting comments allege the pictures have been altered with Adobe Photoshop.

Not so, say the local police.

Check out the pics:


Yes, they're real pictures.

Southwest fashion police set no-fly zone

Speaking of strange flying rituals, WTF is up with this? For your edification, the picture here is of the outfit in question.

Southwest explained its treatment of Ebbert in a letter to her mother, saying it could remove any passenger “whose clothing is lewd, obscene or patently offensive” to ensure the comfort of children and “adults with heightened sensitivities.”

What Quaker/Puritan/Shiite accused this woman of dressing obscenely or offensively? Apparently, it's "Keith," the SWA fashion homo:

After the plane filled, and the flight attendants began their safety spiel, Ebbert was asked to step off the plane by a customer service supervisor, identified by the airline only as “Keith.”

They walked out onto the jet bridge, where Keith told Ebbert her clothing was inappropriate and asked her to change. She explained she was flying to Tucson for only a few hours and had brought no luggage.
“I asked him what part of my outfit was offensive,” she said. “The shirt? The skirt? And he said, 'The whole thing.' ”

"Keith" came up with a suggestion:

Keith asked her to go home, change and take a later flight. She refused, citing her appointment. The plane was ready to leave, so Keith relented. He had her pull up her tank top a bit, pull down her skirt a bit, and return to her seat.

Ebbert says several flight attendants overheard the conversation and, after an embarrassing walk down the aisle, she took her seat and spread a blanket over her lap. She kept her composure until the plane landed, when she called her mother and broke down.

She took a photo of herself with her cell phone so her mother could see her clothes. That's when mom became livid.

"Keith," you didn't just make her mama mad, you pretty much just stepped into a huge, steaming pile of caca with every red-blooded American male in this country. I can only assume you're not counted in that number, you great big Nancy.

Don't let the men of America find out who you are, pal.

'bout damn time!

Run Fred Run!!!

You did WHAT?

How'd you like to be the poor schmuck who has to fill out the paperwork on this one?

B-52 bomber mistakenly loaded with five nuclear warheads flew from Minot Air Force Base, N.D, to Barksdale Air Force Base, La., on Aug. 30, resulting in an Air Force-wide investigation, according to three officers who asked not to be identified because they were not authorized to discuss the incident.

Airline sacrifices goats to appease sky god

The goats were sacrificed in front of the troublesome aircraft Sunday at Nepal's only international airport in Kathmandu in accordance with Hindu traditions, an official said.

Wow. Remind me never to fly to Nepal. Call me crazy, but I'd feel better with a little duct tape and baling wire.

Terlingua World Championship

No, not the chili one, the golf one.

It happens the same weekend as the chili cookoff, but Ranger Bob's Tom Skipper Memorial Terlingua World Golf Championship Golf Shoot-Out has become one of the most popular events of that weekend. Check out his site, and if you're going to be there the first weekend in November, you better get your entries in now.

As one of the original Dirty Dozen, I can attest to the fun and insanity to be had there.

Google Earth’s Hidden Surprise: A Flight Simulator

Not that anyone I know would do this sort of thing at work...

Miss Teen USA 2007 - South Carolina answers a question

No doubt you've heard Miss Teen South Carolina answer her question, but after listening to it again, watch her proud parent's reaction, and then listen to a touching tribute song to her answer. Enjoy.

Reaction Of The Proud Parents of Miss Teen South Carolina

Tribute Song for Miss Teen South Carolina's Answer

Touching.

Air-dropped damns could fix levee breeches

That's right, it's an actual headline on some tree-hugger site. Curse words from the sky could fix levee pants, apparently.

Damns formed of metal tripods and self-filling water bladders could be air-dropped to rapidly repair levees breached by storm damage, say US government researchers.

When Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans in August 2005, the levees created to protect the city from flooding were breached and the resulting deluge left 80% of the city underwater (see Flawed levees no match for Hurricane Katrina).

Should a similar disaster strike the US again, the researchers hope that make-shift damns, dropped from the air, could stem prevent the resulting flood.

Wow. Just...damn.

The Shocker!

The gesture, involving the middle, index and pinky fingers, goes by various names including "the shocker" when the connotation is sexual in nature.

That'll get you blurred. See the picture.

nasty bad naughty boy

Tell me this guy isn't a homo.

Republicans hammer Brit artist's Bush

Another great headline.

Hammering a bush is a hell of a lot better than soliciting sex in a bathroom from a dude.

Blown transformer cuts power to wiener plant

What? You think I make these headlines up?

Gun lovers disarm control advocates

Here's a taste of Liberal Chicago gun-control advocacy:

Let's get organized and shove tougher gun policies right down their throats.

Laura Washington hates guns, and apparently can't understand why everyone doesn't see things her way.

Is it because she's so rational and reasonable?

Our elected officials have either been bought off or are missing in action. The odds are against the majority of Americans who are terrified and sickened by the gun menace.

Nope, that's not it. Is it because she's got paranoid delusions about what constitutes responsible gun ownership?

Do you want to be standing in line for gas, popcorn or a gallon of milk and find yourself next to someone who's packing heat? If he takes the White House, we can all go shopping for embossed leather holsters and pearl-handled pistols. I'll be looking to accessorize that with rhinestone-studded boots.

That might be closer to the truth.

Laura can't understand why an ABC News poll showed overwhelming support for gun control, while letters to the editor demonstrated an overwhelming desire for her to STFU. Seriously, an ABC News poll? Did they call 25 inner-city residents at random and call that a sample?

Laura believes that gun control measures don't advance because gun rights advocates are so mean and vitriolic. Hmmm. The phrase "pot calling the kettle black" comes to mind.

Sen. Craig: 'I Am Not Gay'

Maybe not, but his boyfriends sure are.

100-year-old celebrates her birthday by smoking 170,000th cigarette

An iron-lunged pensioner has celebrated her 100th birthday by lighting up her 170,000th cigerette from a candle on her birthday cake.
Speaking at her 100th birthday party Winnie said: "I have smoked ever since infant school and I have never thought about quitting.

Happy Birthday Granny!

U.S. most armed country with 90 guns per 100 people

Well, 90% isn't bad, I guess. This surprised me, though:

India had the world's second-largest civilian gun arsenal, with an estimated 46 million firearms outside law enforcement and the military, though this represented just four guns per 100 people there. China, ranked third with 40 million privately held guns, had 3 firearms per 100 people.

Now I'm Pissed

Remember the toilet paper job from last week? Well, it just escalated. Ketchup, mustard, cola, meat, and what might be a milkshake decorated my daughter's car.






















Way over the line. Police report filed, parents, kids, and coaches are being called. Please let me catch you doing something else...

New Video Posting in Blogger!

It's a new feature in Blogger, and I'm trying it out. Enjoy a video from last year's Lone Star Adventures, showcasing our local shooting sports.

The Nuge!

This makes me laugh.

The Death of a Match

That flushing noise you hear is this stage. My extractor gave out, and I suffered a couple of major malfs. Oh, well - there's always next year.

Thai man dies wearing wife's bras

A 43-year-old Thai man was found dead wearing 15 bras and a mini-skirt belonging to his estranged wife, news reports said Wednesday. Jaran Khadphano was found dead Tuesday from a suspected heart attack at his home.

I don't know why, but after reading this story I can't stop thinking about my wife's panties. In fact, the first thing I'm going to do when I get home is rip her panties off.
They are crushing my testicles!

Police Need Help Identifying Amnesia Victim

I know this woman! She is my wife. She loves me unconditionally, loves to clean house, cook, do lawn work, clean guns, load ammo, and is a total nymphomaniac. I'm off to Tyler to get her and remind her of all this.

Immigration Activist Deported to Mexico

An illegal immigrant who took refuge in a Chicago church for a year to avoid being separated from her U.S.-born son has been deported to Mexico, the church's pastor said.
Elvira Arellano became an activist and a national symbol for illegal immigrant parents as she defied her deportation order and spoke out from her religious sanctuary. She held a news conference last week to announce that she would finally leave the church to try to lobby U.S. lawmakers for change.

Damn right we need a change. I'm tired of saying it, but we need to get serious about the illegal immigration problem. One change that needs to be made is the law that automatically makes their babies US citizens. Just because they calve over here shouldn't automatically make the baby an American. Only babies of US citizens should be US citizens at birth.

"We are sad, but at the same time we are angry," said Javier Rodriguez, a Chicago immigration activist who worked with Arellano. "How dare they arrest this woman?"

How dare they arrest and deport somebody that has entered the country illegally? Give me a break. How dare these people. I'm sick and tired of hearing these people and their whining. I'm also sick of these people and the liberal left trying to paint me, and others that feel the same way, as Mexican hating racist. I am not a Mexican hating racist. I am intolerant of people that have no respect for our laws and our sovereignty.
I do hope her baby makes it to Mexico safely to be with it's mother, and I hope they both stay there.
One down, 20 MILLION to go.

BOO!

Ha,ha! Did I scare you? Oh, mercy, I crack me up. Al hamsandwich!

Hi, Adam Gadahn here. You may know me as Adam Yahiye Gadahn, Adam Pearlman, the American Al-Qaeda, Azzam the American, or as my pals here in Pakistan call me, "Stinky."

You may remember me from such videos as "Knowledge is for Acting Upon," "Becoming a Muslim," "Driving Miss Car Bomb," "Dude, Where's My Camel?," and all those stupid-ass "training" videos with carpet-covered homies swinging from monkey bars and grabbing hot rifle barrels with their bare hands. I swear, they're so embarrassing sometimes, but they mean well. Plus, they want to cut your throats.

Okay, listen up, infidel dogs. We need to talk. More accurately, I need to talk and I need you to listen. You simply are not taking my threats to America seriously. Look - I'm not just wearing all this laundry on my head because it's so fashionably fabulous (not to mention slimming when it's in black), I'm hard-core, and I mean business. No, seriously. I'm street. And by street I mean AQ street (that's what the boys here in the cave call Al Qaeda). Street in the sheet - that's us. And we're not in it just for the virgins, either. Although, I have to admit, that does have some appeal. I'm not exactly Al Smootha with the houris, ya feel me?

Anyhoo - Allah say (peanuts be unto him) you best be squarin' up and paying attention, because we're gonna bust some shit up, Allah willing (we alway say that in case nothing actually happens. Which it mostly doesn't. But it will. Someday. Seriously. Quit laughing, Allah dammit!). I mean it, because we may or may not have some big, scary plan all cooked up and ready to go. Hey - stop giggling - we really are bad-asses, with training camps, guns, and super fashion sense.

You think I'm kidding, don't you? Do you think global warming is an accident, kafir? Allah (pizza be unto him) says you will drink the wine of your iniquities, and have the chips and dips of your sins. Or something like that. In any event, you really don't want to open up that can of camels. We are stupid, but we are patient, and um...where was I?

Now go put on your American cowboy boots so you may shake in them.

BBC drops fictional terror attack to avoid offending Muslims

Yep, wouldn't want to offend those peace loving muslims now, would we?

BOHICA

Yep, friends, Bend Over, Here It Comes Again.

Not so much the fact that a hurricane has the potential to enter the Gulf. After all, that's only been happening for the last several thousand years or so.

But more for the breathless, please please please let there be destruction news media who will be covering this storm like there's no tomorrow.

Here's some predictions from ole Catfish:

- There will be live, on the ground coverage in New Orleans. As part of this coverage, there will be interviews with people still trying to recover from Katrina.
- There will be live, non stop, 24/7 coverage of this storm the instant in hits the Gulf (if indeed it makes it into the Gulf of Mexico.
- There will be non stop coverage of just what FEMA is going to do to help anyone potentially displaced by this storm.
- There will be the obligatory global warming interviews all over the news, explaining that all these major hurricanes are essentially man-made.
- The news media will essentially create a state of panic.

Please feel free to add your own. This should be a good one, as the media has been frothing at the bit since last year when there weren't any hurricanes to worry about.

Visitors

Had this fellow come visit me at work today. He was kind enough to hang out while I ran to get my camera. We sat around and looked at each other for about 20 minutes or so this morning.

Hugo Chavez to unveil proposal tonight

If anyone doubts that a democracy can fall into despotism, please take a moment to consider what is happening in Venezuela tonight.

President Hugo Chavez will present his blueprint for constitutional reform Wednesday, proposing sweeping changes expected to allow him to be re-elected indefinitely.

I'm not so naive as to posit that Venezuela has enjoyed any form of real democracy during Chavez's reign, but now the sham is being exposed for what it really is: a full-blown dictatorship, thinly disguised with the benign name of "constitutional reform." If by "reform" you mean "disposal," then it's on the money. Of course, Chavez has answers for critics:

Chavez rejects allegations that he poses a threat to democracy.

The Venezuelan leader predicted that most people would support his proposal to reform the constitution, but he also forecast the beginning of a tenacious political battle with the nation's opposition.

"I have faith that we are going to convince the immense majority of Venezuelans of the necessity and the immediate benefits that this is going to bring the country," Chavez said during a televised interview.

"Tomorrow our great battle begins," Chavez said. "They are going to launch a campaign tomorrow to try to distort the text and the spirit of the proposal."

A reform proposal, my fanny. Look at the propaganda machine in full swing, and look at his supporters. There are masses of people in Venezuela who are actually proponents of this change. Here's the great irony of the whole thing:

National Assembly President Celia Flores said lawmakers could finish the reform debate within two months. Under the constitution, the final draft of the proposal must be approved by voters in a referendum.

That's right - the people must vote to relinquish their democracy. And you just watch - they'll do it cheering all the way to the polls.

But that could never happen here, could it? Yes, people ARE that stupid.

Suspected DUI Driver Jumps From Car, Flees With Beer In Hand

'There was a 12-pack of Corona he was working on in the front seat,' Orange County sheriff's Cmdr. Jeff Stonebreaker said. 'He decided to take one of those over the fence with him. So, he bails out of the car and runs from the deputies with a beer in his hand.'

It's all about the beer.

Cmdr. Jeff Stonebreaker? Sounds like an action figure.

Now what?

(AFP/Wissam al-Okaili)

In this photo (ED:it's been removed from Yahoo's site - here's the cached version) you'll see an Iraqi woman who claimed the two bullets she's holding in her hand hit her house.

Coupla problems here from a gun nut's perspective.

1. The only way those bullets (cartidges to be precise) could have hit her house was if someone threw them or they fell out of a passing helicopter ferrying troops around.

2. Looks like .223/5.56 rounds. Now the stickler here is that as far as I know, standard US Army issue 5.56 rounds are the SS109 round. They have a very distinctive green tip. You'll note on the photo that the bullets in question (BIQ) are lacking a green tip. The BIQ look like plain jane FMJ to me.

Now there's all sorts of possible explanations - perhaps the Iraqi army isn't issued the 109 rounds, or our own forces aren't utilizing them exclusively (can anyone confirm or deny this one?); perhaps the rounds came from one of many contractors in Iraq now - Blackwater, Triple Canopy, etc... Or perhaps the rounds just came off the open gun market in Iraq, which I understand is thriving.

One thing IS clear, however. The BIQ that this woman is holding were not fired out of a gun at her house. Thrown, dropped, whatever. But they weren't shot. You'd be hard pressed to understand that if you didn't understand weapons or at least have a BASIC understanding of how firearms work. But oh, I guess that describes the vast bulk of the media right there...

Invitation to endorse the International Tribunal on Hurricanes Katrina & Rita

I wonder if this is for real, or just a really bad joke. Are people really this crazy/racist/whatever?

The People’s Hurricane Relief Fund (PHRF), US Human Rights Network (USHRN), Malcolm X Grassroots Movement (MXGM) and the Mississippi Disaster Relief Coalition would like to formally invite you to be one of the endorsers of the International Tribunal on Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Current co-conveners include former Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney, Brazilian trade unionist Edenice Santa de Jesus and Algerian Parliamentarian Louisa Hanoune. The Tribunal is going to be held in New Orleans, Louisiana August 29th through September 2nd, 2007. This event will call into question the ongoing ethnic cleansing of New Orleans and commemorate the lives of the 2,000 people killed or missing, the 800,000 people displaced, and the additional 3,000 people who have died post Katrina-Rita as a result of ongoing human rights violations.

The International Tribunal on Hurricane Katrina and Rita is an outgrowth of the demand for justice and restitution called for by the more than two hundred Survivors gathered at the first Survivors Assembly held in December 2005 (http://www.peopleshurricane.org/assembly-call).

We consider you an ardent and unwavering supporter of human and civil rights in the US, we would be honored if you would join us in this initiative to hold the U.S. government accountable for the crimes. Your support will increase the fighting capacity of the survivors of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Cynthia McKinney??? Doesn't the state of Georgia have enough problems without exporting her brand of racist insanity? Ethnic cleansing? This has GOT to be a bad joke.

Hmm, I wonder

I wonder how big the hole in the ground will be? Will he bounce, or just splat all over the place?

The big story you're not hearing

It would seem that two young muslim men (and I use the term "men" only to describe their gender) were stopped speeding in South Carolina on August 4. The local gendarmes happened to find pipe bombs and "related material" in the car with them. And oh, yes - they were caught fairly close to a US military facility that has been used to house some of the bad boys caught in the war on terror. I'm sure, however, that there was no connection.

Today, the FBI searched the home of the turds in a suburb of Tampa, Florida. The interesting connection to Tampa and these two "misunderstood youths" is one Sami Al-Arian, a former professor at the college in Tampa, the University of South Florida.

Records show the owner of that house is Sameeh Hammoudeh, a co-defendant in the trial of Sami Al-Arian. Al-Arian is the former USF professor who was acquitted on most charges of funding terror-related organizations. He pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to provide services to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Both of the clowns caught in South Carolina attended classes at USF. Again, I'm sure there's no connection there and it's just my paranoia at work. As usual when it comes to this kind of thing, Michell Malkin is all over this story, doing the job that CNNCBSABCNBCFOX won't do.

We can't have anyone thinking that muslim males are a problem now, can we?

Perfection

Panache.

Look it up.

A little shooting fun

While Dan and JR were out hiding from the heat today, The Girl, D and I were out having fun with the North Texas Practical Shooters. Plenty hot today, I know I went through over 4 liters of water.

Kids

Ah, the joys of having a teenage daughter...



At least you can't tell the yard needs mowing.

6ft tent pole spears girl of 16

Props to Fark on perhaps the best headline EVAR:

More fun than you can stake a chick at.

DON'T CLICK THIS LINK!

If it saves one child...

I'm sure many of you will remember those calls for gun control, in the name of our children. The squeaky voices on the left calling for an end to private gun ownership were/are constantly telling us that if we think ONE child's life is worth saving, we must ban all guns and do it now!

Where are those same voices of "reason" when it comes to illegal immigrants? In New Jersey, we learn that the person who executed 3 young people was not just an illegal immigrant. In addition,

FOX News has learned Carranza, who has a fake Social Security number, had been arrested on charges of raping a 5-year-old girl and then threatening the child and her parents. In that case he faced a 31-count indictment.
In another, he was arrested on assault charges stemming from a bar fight.

So here we have a first class scumbag. He's ALREADY under indictment for RAPING A FIVE YEAR OLD GIRL. Yeah, a five year old. He's ALREADY been arrested for an assault in a bar. Someone, anyone please tell me why this asshole was still in the country which enabled him to kill 3 college kids.

It's bullshit like this that absolutely drives me insane.

NASA quietly fixes flawed temperature data

WHAT? Some of the numbers used to stir up the BS global warming debate were cooked?? Turns out that the warmest years in recent history were back in the 30s, contrary to what the eco-clowns would have us believe. For you see, the decades after the 30s are when the eco-nazis tell us that man made carbon emissions started to take effect and ruin the environment. By cooking the numbers to make it appear that the warmest years on record were in the last few years (and not in the 1930s), the clowns supplemented their bogus argument with bogus facts.

How long before we'll see this story on CNNCBSNBCABCFOX????

Algore? Algore? Algore?

Surely this must be another sign of the Bush/Haliburton conspiracy.

Government forecasters minimally reduced their prediction for the Atlantic hurricane season Thursday, but said that up to nine hurricanes and up to 16 tropical storms are expected to form, still a busier-than-average season.

WHAT? I thought Algore promised us busier and busier hurricane seasons, with years of Katrina type storms. Yet, since Algore opened the pie-hole that is his mouth, I don't believe we've seen his predictions come true. You will recall, I'm sure - the predictions last year that said we'd get plastered again; which were then continually downgraded throughout the year as the doom and gloom predictions didn't come to fruition.

Yeah, I know. The "busiest" time of year for hurricane season is coming up. But it makes you wonder, doesn't it? If the "best and brightest" can't properly predict what's going to happen over the next two months with any sort of certainty - and failed miserably last year, why would anyone trust the climate change freaks when they tell us what's going to happen in 10-20 years? Hell, they can't even predict what's going to happen this weekend!!

why the gun is civilization

From The Munchkin Wrangler:

Human beings only have two ways to deal with one another: reason and force. If you want me to do something for you, you have a choice of either convincing me via argument, or force me to do your bidding under threat of force. Every human interaction falls into one of those two categories, without exception. Reason or force, that's it.

In a truly moral and civilized society, people exclusively interact through persuasion. Force has no place as a valid method of social interaction, and the only thing that removes force from the menu is the personal firearm, as paradoxical as it may sound to some.

When I carry a gun, you cannot deal with me by force. You have to use reason and try to persuade me, because I have a way to negate your threat or employment of force. The gun is the only personal weapon that puts a 100-pound woman on equal footing with a 220-pound mugger, a 75-year old retiree on equal footing with a 19-year old gangbanger, and a single gay guy on equal footing with a carload of drunk guys with baseball bats. The gun removes the disparity in physical strength, size, or numbers between a potential attacker and a defender.

There are plenty of people who consider the gun as the source of bad force equations. These are the people who think that we'd be more civilized if all guns were removed from society, because a firearm makes it easier for a mugger to do his job. That, of course, is only true if the mugger's potential victims are mostly disarmed either by choice or by legislative fiat--it has no validity when most of a mugger's potential marks are armed. People who argue for the banning of arms ask for automatic rule by the young, the strong, and the many, and that's the exact opposite of a civilized society. A mugger, even an armed one, can only make a successful living in a society where the state has granted him a force monopoly.

Then there's the argument that the gun makes confrontations lethal that otherwise would only result in injury. This argument is fallacious in several ways. Without guns involved, confrontations are won by the physically superior party inflicting overwhelming injury on the loser. People who think that fists, bats, sticks, or stones don't constitute lethal force watch too much TV, where people take beatings and come out of it with a bloody lip at worst. The fact that the gun makes lethal force easier works solely in favor of the weaker defender, not the stronger attacker. If both are armed, the field is level. The gun is the only weapon that's as lethal in the hands of an octogenarian as it is in the hands of a weightlifter. It simply wouldn't work as well as a force equalizer if it wasn't both lethal and easily employable.

When I carry a gun, I don't do so because I am looking for a fight, but because I'm looking to be left alone. The gun at my side means that I cannot be forced, only persuaded. I don't carry it because I'm afraid, but because it enables me to be unafraid. It doesn't limit the actions of those who would interact with me through reason, only the actions of those who would do so by force. It removes force from the equation...and that's why carrying a gun is a civilized act.

Too much security can be overbearing: Microsoft | APC Magazine

I'd like to invite you all to take a look at the article I've linked to above. It's a report on one of Microsoft's security strategists. Here's what got my attention...one of the kids that has ostensibly made Windows Vista security SO invasive is belly-aching about our nation's policy on national security and the war on terror. First of all, I'm not sure that his extrapolation from software security to national policy is relevant, much less worth consideration. In fact, what I see is that this kid has an opinion about the current policy, and has used his position to forward his political views. Get a blog to do your soap-boxing, okay? If I'm paying money to attend Tech.Ed, and you're espousing politics, well - give me my money back. Second, the position that we're no safer as a result of certain security measures and the war on terror just doesn't hold water. We've dismantled and disabled enemy assets, and forced them to cower in caves. As long as they're doing that, then we ARE safer. I agree that taking my shoes off is a pain in the ass, but there IS a precedent for it (does the name Richard Reid ring a bell?).

I do like his philosophy about recognizing methods of attack. However, this doesn't mean you can discount the focus on stopping the tools of attack. You have to address both, and that's what some people just can't seem to grasp, mostly because it inconveniences them.

Here's a case in point: I get pretty aggravated whenever I open up the Control Panel on my own desktop, and get prompted by a security pop-up. It seems stupid and useless to me, since I'm already logged in and authenticated. Yes, I'm sure, so open the damned thing! However, I recognize that it's there for a reason, and I just tolerate it. It seems hypocritical to me that someone who (presumably) helped design this approach has a problem with taking off shoes and passing through a metal detector.

Swedish grandmother hospitalised after beaver attack

"The beaver attacked the grandmother. She was seriously hit by the animal's tail and received a number of bites and scratches," an officer told the newspaper.

I have had an encounter with an overly aggressive, giant, hairy beaver before, and it has left me scarred for life. I was hit by her large tail, bitten, scratched, and damn near smothered.

The authorities have decided to kill the dozen or so beavers living near the beach to eliminate any further risk to local bathers.

"Beaver Shot at Swedish Beach!" will be the next headline.

Look, a monkey!

So how, in this day and age of being practically strip searched in airports does this guy manage to smuggle a monkey on to a plane? OK, it's a really cute monkey, and I assume "spirited" doesn't mean it was the poo-flinging variety, but still...

Texican Tattler: Hooters Dubai plans in Middle East NOT deflated after all

Thanks a lot, Big D.

Hooters Dubai plans in Middle East NOT deflated after all

It's unclear how many branches are being planned or where the locations will be.

I'm sure there will be no shortage of hot waitresses like this one.

TJ shows some tricks

Todd Jarrett is one of the best in the biz.

Wanna improve your shooting? Check out this link and it's full of tips.

About the only thing he does on video that I wouldn't recommend to anyone (and I think he's just doing it for the sake of time) is to put a partially loaded mag back in your mag pouch. That, my friends, is a big no no that will indeed bite you in the booty.

Minnesota Cops Seek 'Professionals' Who Removed Man's Testicles

That man's nuts!

The 62-year-old man, Russell Daniel Angus, said he'd been suffering from chronic pain and had asked doctors to remove his testicles, but they'd refused...

Chronic pain, huh? There's a clue.

Police said Angus hired two or three "professionals" to do the job on a makeshift operating table in his home and that's where his daughter found him bleeding on July 28, the paper said.

"I have never in my life seen anything quite like that," Tom Walsh, a St. Paul police spokesman, told the Star Tribune.

Angus refused to tell police who performed the surgery.

Police removed three specimen jars in their search of the home, but it was unclear if the man's testicles were found.

Check his wife's purse, Sherlock.

Dear Verizon: Suck it.

eBay - Message from Matt Halprin – New Listing Restrictions on Koreans

Message from Matt Halprin – New Listing Restrictions on Koreans:

Hello everyone…In mid-August, we will be updating our Koreans Policy to place more restrictions around Korean-related items. Once these changes take effect, we will prohibit listings of any Korean part that is required for the firing of a gun. This includes items like finger tips, brain casings and skulls, bodies, arms, legs,etc. Please read the Korean Policy for more details on our current policy.
As you may know, eBay does not allow the listing of any items which are regulated by individual states or the federal government; however, there are still a large number of Korean-related parts that are legal and are widely available in retail stores. These items have also historically been allowed on eBay.
After learning that some items purchased on eBay may have been used in the tragedy at Virginia Tech in April 2007, we felt that revisiting our policies was not only necessary, but the right thing to do. After much consideration, the Trust & Safety policy team – along with our executive leaders at eBay Inc. – have made the decision to further restrict more of these items than federal and state regulations require.
This new update continues to encourage safety among our community members and brings our policies in the U.S. and Canada in closer alignment with our existing policies in other markets around the globe.
Sincerely,
Matt Halprin
Vice President, Trust & Safety

Makes about as much sense. This is an example of why "feel-good" legislation is a popular tool of politicians. It does absolutely nothing, yet they "feel" good. Morons.

Boycott eBay, use GunBroker.com. eBay doesn't want your business, so don't give it to them.

The New Texican Tattler

We moved. We changed our look.

Yes, it's disconcerting for those of us who aren't used to change, but change is progress. It's also easier to use and easier to maintain.

Your feedback is welcome.

Army Agrees to M4 Sand Test Shoot-Off

Interesting! It would appear that someone was able to convince the powers that be that there might be a better way....

The shoot off will test the capabilities of the M4/M16 operating system against three other rifles: the Heckler and Koch-built HK416, the FNH USA-designed Mk16 SOCOM Combat Assault Rifle and the previously-shelved, H&K-manufactured XM8 carbine.

My bet is that the HK416 gets the nod.

For one thing, it will probably be the least expensive choice. You can use existing lowers and just plop the new upper on top. For another, you won't have to retrain your entire military to use a new weapon system; again, very cost efficient. But then, on the other hand, when has that ever made a difference???

The USPS is Just Another Government Agency

I'm SO pissed off at my mail carrier right now, I could, um, go postal? Okay, not THAT mad, but pretty ticked. And it's MY blog, so I can rant all I want. Here's the deal. My home backs up to a greenbelt, and I live on a corner lot. I share a driveway with my neighbor, and my garage is around back. There are 4 automobiles in the household. I can cram 3 in the back, but one has to park out front. I've provided informative illustrations below:

My former mail carrier, Don, was a great guy, and understood that I can't keep the front of the house clear all the time, with kids, friends, and neighbors needing to park in front. I enjoyed visiting with him, and he knew everyone in the neighborhood, and I considered him a neighbor.
My current mail carrier, Deborah, is not so understanding. In fact, I'd classify her as a lazy government employee, who could stand to get out of her truck every once in a while - it's exercise (hint, hint).She has refused to deliver mail, and quoted USPS policy that requires the drive-up to the mailbox to be clear. I do what I can, but I just don't have control over people parking in front of my house.

What's worse, she's refused to deliver mail because the garbage man left the garbage bin in the street. I kid you not.

I've called and complained before, and it's gotten better for a while, then she goes back to quoting policy. I do what I can to ask people to keep the front clear, but it's MY DAMNED HOUSE. I should be able to park in front of it, and not have my mail held hostage because someone is too lazy to step out of her truck. I argued with her manager today, and he's a policy-quoter, too. "If we had to get out of the truck for everyone, we'd never get the mail delivered." No kidding, Steve-o, but not everyone has a 12-foot curb in front of their house like I do! He said he'd talk to Deborah, and drive by and take a look at the street.

I told him my next step was to put up a sign that says, "Please don't park in front of my house, because my mail carrier is too lazy to get out of her truck."

"Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds." Just don't ask them to go one iota above the minimum required effort every once in a while.

Another Clown Car

LITTLE ROCK - An Arkansas couple had a baby daughter Thursday — their 17th child and seventh girl — and the pair say they're still not ready to give it a rest.

These people are taking the phrase "go forth and multiply" seriously. But hey, at least they're not popping out one crack-baby after another or living off the state:

Jennifer joins the fast-growing Duggar brood, who live in a 7,000-square-foot (650-square-meter) home in Tontitown. All the children — whose names start with the letter J — are taught at home.

Observations

Just sayin'...

If you go to the gym in the morning and have to put gel in your hair and wear a cute little golf cap to try and look cool....

Your masculinity is in doubt.

Carry on.

Religion of Peace update

So what do you think dissent under an islamic government would be like? Here's a sneak peek:

Say something bad about islam - even if it's true - and you'll be threatened, bullied and sue you into the ground. And that's in a country that's not ruled by islam. If you were to dare to question islam in an islamic country, we all know that you're just as likely to have your head cut off or be stoned to death.

Man, 93, Shoots Violent Robber

I thought everyone could use a feel good story this morning.

Willie Lee Hill, 93, told police he saw the robber while in his bedroom Wednesday night. Hill confronted the man and was struck at least 50 times, police said. He was knocked unconscious. Covered in blood, Hill regained consciousness a short time later and pulled a .38-caliber handgun on his attacker. The suspect, Douglas B. Williams Jr., saw the gun and charged the man, who fired a bullet that struck Williams in the throat, police said. Police plan to charge Williams with residential burglary, second- degree battery, theft of property and theft by receiving.

Drought over

Boy, like we needed a rocket scientist to tell us that....

What every American should know about jihad

Watch it all.

Steve, Don't Eat It! Vol. 8 - Prison Wine

Just in case you ever need to know, this is how to make prison wine, complete with taste-testing!

Regarding Red Prison Wine

Anthony: "I would drink this in prison."

Steve: "I would drink this in high school!"

Read the whole thing. This is hilarious.

Norfolk and visitor with a holstered .45 are tangled in a Catch-22

Szymecki had come from Yorktown with his wife, their three children and two children from their neighborhood.
Szymecki had brought along something else, too - a .45-caliber handgun in a holster on his belt.
Szymecki was charged with violating a local ordinance that the City Council had passed in May, which set up rules to govern Harborfest. Among them was a provision banning handguns and other weapons.
There's just one problem: A few years ago, the General Assembly barred localities from enforcing laws governing the carrying of firearms. That meant state law prevailed. And in Virginia, "open carry" is legal.

I guess I don't get the headline. Where is the catch 22? He had the right to carry the gun openly.

Szymecki was given a summons and released. When he showed up for court June 22, the case was withdrawn at the request of an assistant city attorney.

Alas, justice prevails.

Kids These Days...

One of my son's roomates at the University of Oklahoma is a kid that lives across the street. His family is from Baton Rouge, so that makes them okay by me. ;)

His family just got back from a couple of weeks in Europe. They saw many places, and lots of history. He mentioned (unbidden) that his trip made him appreciate life in the United States all that much more.

I asked this young man what impressed him most on this trip. He told me, "Normandy beach." He mentioned that it was the only free thing they did on their trip - the only thing they saw that was American soil.

But he said the thing that moved him most was the sight of 9,000 American graves on foreign soil.

Don't lose hope yet, ladies and gentlemen. We are raising some fine young Americans.

Cigar Tax = $10 per cigar

Yep, you read that right, friends. The socialist scumbags running Congress right now have proposed a tax of up to $10 PER CIGAR to help take care of the poor in America.

Congress -- meeting in smoke-free rooms -- is looking for an extra $35 billion to $50 billion for the state children's health insurance program and hopes to raise most of it through excise taxes on products like tobacco.

Notice how they neglect to say "Democrat controlled" before Congress...

There is currently 4.8 cents-per-cigar tax cap but under the proposed bill, taxes on "large cigars," a category that includes all but the tiny cigars sold in packs of 20 like cigarettes, would rise to 53 percent.
A version of the bill being considered by the Senate Finance Committee sets the maximum tax per cigar at $10.

Hi, I'm from the government. I'm here to help.

Clearly, the government is out to get us. Between coming after our guns and coming after our cigars, it ain't looking to good for ole Catfish and his crew.... What's next? Beer? Steak? Boobies?

A weapons cache found?

Ok, this local story has me pretty hot under the collar.

Apparently, there's a leak in an apartment. Maintenance man goes in to fix the leak and finds an assortment of weapons in the apartment. The weapons found are:

2 AK-47 rifles
1 Uzi 9 mm submachine gun
1 TEC-9 submachine gun
1 40 mm ordnance launcher
Handheld ordnance launcher
About 500 rounds of ammunition.

However, even tho these weapons are all perfectly legal, the police confiscated them anyway.

Federal investigators said weapons found in a downtown Dallas apartment are legal and they might be returned to the owner.

They MIGHT return the weapons? MIGHT? Does anyone else have a problem with this?

We have a homeowner who apparently was doing nothing illegal. The weapons "seized" by the Federal government are legal to own. And they MIGHT give this guy back his guns.

In a related story, the news media in all its brilliance, calls the 4 weapons and the grenade launchers (which you can buy legally and fire smoke grenades out of...) a "large" cache.

Federal sources tell CBS 11 News that law enforcement officers have confiscated a large cache of weapons found in an apartment near the federal building in downtown Dallas.

Shit, there's been plenty of times when I've had more guns IN MY CAR than were found in this guy's house.

Again, there's another reference to the statement that the guns were obtained legally, but the cops took them anyway.

Police seized the weapons even though they say they may have been obtained legally.

If that doesn't send chills up your back, I don't know what will.

Now, a couple of caveats:

1. There was suspected child porn found in the guy's apartment - if he's a pedophile, then by all means, he should go down. But that has nothing to do with having a "cache" of weapons found in a house. Owning guns does not make you a criminal.

2. There have also been conflicting reports that the apartment owner is an Arab, and goes to Saudi Arabia frequently; although terrorism has not been mentioned, the North Texas Terrorism Task Force has been called in. If that's the case, then by all means, take a closer look at this guy.

But to go into someone's house and seize their weapons without cause is about as unconstitutional as you can get. Anyone ever heard of Lexington and Concord?

Great Letter to the Editor

I found this letter to the editor quite amusing.

"CAPITOL SHOOTING
Incident will likely trigger more calls for gun control"

After Monday’s attempt by an obviously deranged man to enter the state Capitol on a self-described mission to take over state government, I feel it is about time something be done to better protect the people of this great land (“Armed man killed at state Capitol,” The Gazette, July 17).

According to reports, the man entered a clothing store, rented a tuxedo and then went to the Capitol with a gun and knife. Fortunately, a state patrolman took appropriate action.

State lawmakers must immediately place a cooling off period on the rental of tuxedos. Why should the deranged and armed be allowed to dress better than the rest of us? I know many out there will say if we outlaw tuxedos, then only outlaws will wear tuxedos. They will also say that tuxedos don’t kill people; well-dressed dandies kill people. I, however, disagree.

For evidence that this will work, let’s look at gun-control efforts in this country. During the assault weapons ban no one was killed with an assault rifle in this country. And efforts in many major cities to outlaw handguns have removed these weapons from the hands of criminals.

Oh, wait. Now I remember. Those efforts were futile and actually counterproductive. Nevertheless, I know some well-intentioned legislator will call for tighter controls in Colorado. As always, these efforts will be just as effective as banning the rental of tuxedos.

Ken Cluck
Colorado Springs

Jaw-dropping Photosynth demo (video)

Wanna see something really nerdy and cool? Click on the link above.

Indeed, Photosynth might utterly transform the way we manipulate and experience digital images.

You can try to install the software at http://labs.live.com/photosynth

Some people just deserve to die - immediately

And instead of a nice humane death by lethal injection they should drive him out to alligator alley, wipe his naked body down with some pig's blood, tie his hands and feet together and drop him in the water. Damn, people suck sometimes.

Godzilla!

I hate to bring this up, but isn't this similar to how Godzilla was created, some sort of nuclear test gone awry?

TEPCO had initially said the earthquake had not caused any leaks, but it revealed on Monday night that 1,200 liters of radioactive water had sloshed into the sea from its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant in Niigata.

Lady Bird buried next to LBJ

I never had the pleasure of meeting Lady Bird, but if the children are a reflection of the mother, then she was surely a very nice person. I did have the pleasure of flying from Dallas to D.C. on occasion, and in one instance was seated next to Linda Johnson Robb, Lady Bird's daughter. We struck up a conversation, and discussed her husband's politics (just a little). I was reading a Stephen King book at the time, and she inquired about it. Trying to be polite, I asked what she was reading. I think the title of the book was "Leaves of Grey" or somesuch, a book about menopause.

Smooth, JR. Really smooth.

She was very gracious, didn't miss a beat, and put me at ease. Of course, I mentally punched myself about a dozen times, but she was really cool about it.

I told her that we really liked her mom in Texas.

Obama Calls for Permanent Assault Weapons Ban to Combat Inner-City Violence

The sad thing is not that Obama wants to ban evil assault rifles. The sad thing is that every candidate currently in the race today, Republicans and Democrats, would likely agree with this tripe.

I really hope Fred enters the race.

Gun etiquette

It’s been said that you can tell within 15 seconds whether or not a person handling a firearm knows what they are doing, and if they are safe. I have yet to see this proven untrue.

An easy start is to know the 4 rules of gun safety:
1. the gun is ALWAYS loaded
2. never point the gun at something you are not willing to destroy
3. always be sure of your target and what’s behind it
4. keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target.

After talking with a good friend of mine, I’ve come to the conclusion that when I teach new shooters about the rules, it’s not so much that I’m teaching them gun safety, but rather, gun etiquette. Yes, there are the above-mentioned rules. However, those rules do not encompass the entirety of what is considered good, polite, safe behavior at a shooting range.

As a new shooter, if you want to make sure your first effort at attending a club match is successful, here’s my advice. It’s given based on running, scoring, and setting up matches a few thousand times in the last 10 years or so.

First thing to do is show up early, at least 30 minutes before the scheduled match time. Find the Match Director and introduce yourself. Let the MD know you’re a first timer, and if you have any experience at all in the practical shooting world, let him know. Word of wisdom to you – you are not going to impress any seasoned MD by letting him know how many rounds you shoot, or what tactical schools you’ve been to. In fact, it has been my experience that the more times you’ve been to the holy grail of shooting schools in this country – Gunsite, Front Sight, or Thunder Ranch, the scarier you are on the range. I realize that to some of you, this is heresy, but I’m telling you from my experience, it’s the truth. Every one of us on the Tattler staff can give you stories if you’re interested, but that’s another blog post…. Regardless, let the MD know of your experience, if any, and follow his instructions on how you are to conduct yourself during the match. Again, I don’t care how you did it in SEAL Team 6, you’re going to conform to our club and range rules, or you’re going home. And yes, we have had people show up and try and convince us that they work for all sorts of alphabet agencies and that’s not how they were taught to do it by the Company, blah blah blah. Like I said at the beginning, give me 15 seconds and I can tell if you’re a shooter or not. You’re going to have to sit through a safety briefing where you will be informed of the range and club rules, and what we expect of you. Pay attention and ask questions.

Next thing to find is the Safety Area. Every practical shooting club, whether it’s IDPA or USPSA should have a designated Safety Area. The Safety Area is where you go to fondle your gun, holster up, show off your weapon, whatever. It is the ONLY place on the range where you can handle your firearm without the permission and supervision of the Match Director or Range Officer. Period, end of story. It is also the ONLY place on the range that live ammunition is NOT allowed. Play with your mags and ammo wherever you want, except the Safety Area, and vice versa with your handgun. Do not show your buddy the new pistol you just bought in the staging area. Do not see if your gun is loaded or not in the staging area. Do not do anything with your firearm unless you are in the Safety Area or under the control of a match official. Doing so tends to make the shooters around you very nervous. And it’s exceptionally poor range etiquette.

As you’re holstering up, keep in mind that while an in the waistband (IWB) holster is perfectly suited for daily carry, it has no place on the practical shooting range in my experience, particularly if worn behind the hip. You ask why, dear reader? The answer is simple – every time you holster or draw your weapon, you are effectively hosing the people behind you with the muzzle of your weapon. That, my dear friends, is not good range etiquette.

Speaking of holstering, if you can’t holster or draw your weapon with your strong hand only, you need to get a holster that will allow you to do so and practice until you can do it. Probably the #1 common range mistake we see new shooters do is take their off hand and hold open their holster, or push their gut out of the way or ‘guide’ the muzzle of their pistol into the holster. Don’t do this. Your body came with a set # of holes in it from the factory. No reason to add another one. A final thought on holsters – the cheap assed nylon holsters that sell for a dollar a dozen at the gun shows – leave them at home. They suck and frankly they’re a safety hazard. Either buy quality holsters from folks like Comp-Tac or the less expensive holsters from Uncle Mike’s will do until you purchase a “real” holster but toss the cheapo nylon holsters in the trash.

Ok, where were we?? After getting your gear on (and regardless of which sport you’re playing in, know the rules of what kind of holster you can use and where everything can be positioned before hand – you can find all that information online at idpa and uspsa’s respective websites), help the MD set up the stages for the shoot. Carry walls, barricades, targets, etc; help staple the targets up. Nothing will get you in the good graces of an MD more than lending a hand before and after the match.

Once it’s time to start shooting, listen to the stage description. Ask questions. Pay attention to where you can and can’t shoot from or what targets can or can’t be engaged from a particular position. This is more important in IDPA-land because generally the scenarios in IDPA are much more specific on what you’re going to do vs. the freestyle nature of USPSA. Typically, as a new shooter, you are not going to go first on any stage and you’ll have time to watch other shooters and how they attack the COF. Watch the better shooters – they’ll be easy to spot – and try to emulate them. Not necessarily on how fast they shoot, but where they shoot targets from. When they’re done shooting, ask them questions – keeping in mind that it’s poor etiquette to ask any level of shooter how they’re going to do something right before they shoot, so it’s best to wait till they’re done, or if you know they’re not shooting for awhile. Again, if you know that someone’s getting ready to shoot, the polite thing to do is stay out of their way and leave them alone until the shooting’s over.

When it’s your turn to shoot, follow the direction of the RO and don’t be offended if you feel you’re being watched like a hawk. Remember, as an unknown quantity, you have to earn my trust. You are going to impress me by shooting smoothly, accurately, and safely. I don’t care if it takes you 10 times as long to shoot something as I do, shoot smooth, safe, and accurately and you’ll have earned my respect. Shoot out of control, throw mikes, and be reckless, you’re going to get a lecture, and if you can’t chill out you’re not going to be allowed to continue shooting – particularly as a new shooter. When you are shooting, be predictable in what you’re going to do. Don’t go hauling ass one way only to stop and back up and go back the other way. Be smooth and be predictable and you’ll make friends with your safety crew.

Don’t bring Hollywood to the range. I think most of us know that Hollywood is full of shit, and this of course spills over into the gun world. With very few exceptions, everything you see on TV or in the movies is just plain bullshit. We will tell new shooters to not do either a “Charlie’s Angles” (hold the gun pointing straight up when you’re not shooting) or a “Miami Vice” (point the gun at the ground when they’re not shooting). If you were to trip or fall or have an AD and the gun’s pointing straight up or down, there’s going to be a problem. The weapon should either be in the holster, or pointed at the targets (and as a by product, at the berm). Period, all stop, end of story.

Be prepared to handle yourself if there’s a problem while you’re shooting. If your gun jams, pukes, blows up or just plain quits working, know what you are going to do before hand. Do NOT look down the barrel or your gun or wave the firearm around recklessly while you’re trying to fix the problem. Stop, figure out what the problem is, and fix it. If it can’t be fixed, tell the RO and he’ll instruct you as to what to do next. I have seen someone look down the barrel (a cop); I have seen someone cover the entire crowd with their muzzle after they shot a double charge; and I have had more guns than I care to admit pointed at me by someone who had their head up their ass when they had a problem while they were shooting. Don’t be one of those people. Keep the muzzle pointed downrange and solve the problem.

When you're not shooting, you are also expected to help run the match. Tape the paper targets, reset the steel, and reset any doors or activators that are used. If you're not the shooter, on deck (next), in the hole (3rd), or re-organizing your gear after you shoot, you are expected to help out. Sitting back behind the range and talking about how great you are, or how you're going to run the stage or just flat out being lazy has no place at a match. I don't care if you're a brand new shooter or a World Class champion - you're expected to work. In fact, the bulk of the World Class shooters I know will literally race you downrange to tape targets.

After you’re done shooting for the night, it is decidedly uncool, unhip, and flat out rude to leave. Wait till everyone’s done and then help tear the match down, put stuff up and help the match staff as much as you can. I can think of few things that piss off a match crew more than having someone pack their shit up and leave as soon as they’re done. Again, don’t be one of those people.

Follow these simple guidelines and you’re on your way to being a responsible club member and shooter. After a while, learn how to run the timer and score other shooters and make it easier for the match staff to provide you with an afternoon or evening’s worth of entertainment. You’ll earn their respect and can then pass on everything you’ve learned to the next batch of new shooters, which is our obligation to begin with.

Uranus has no diamonds after all - New Scientist Space

Some scientists have proposed that the high pressure inside Uranus...could compress carbon into diamonds.

Heehee.

Instructables - How to make cool DIY projects

Check out the "Not Liable" section. All sorts of anarchistic mischief to be had there. I'm just sayin'...

White House: No specific terror threat against US

Hmmm. Might be time to toss the AR back in the car again...

Presidential Candidates In First Ever Gay Debate

For the first time the leading candidates for the presidency will hold a televised debate devoted solely to LGBT issues. Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards have confirmed they will participate. Several other Democratic candidates also may join the debate.

What a colossal waste of time this is going to be. I think we should try to guess what the top 10 questions and issues are that they are going to debate. I'll start.

10. If you were a drag queen, would you rather emulate Madonna or Cher?
9. Who was better, The Village People or Queen?
8. When wearing short shorts and hiking boots, what is hotter, fishnet tank tops, or wife beater undershirts?
7. Gerbils, should they be put on the "protected and endangered" list?
6. Should Lesbians be allowed food stamps seeing how they eat out so much?
5. Since homosexuals refuse to stop having unnatural and unprotected sex, what is the government going to do to help stop the AIDS epidemic?
4.
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CNN - Car Bomb Demo

You want to see what "responsible journalism" looks like? How about CNN showing anyone who wants to watch how to build a car bomb?

What a bunch of morons. Might as well post Al Qaida manuals on their website.

Some weekend fun

Some vids from a match yesterday at Double Tap - finally a match without rain!!!