GRNC Guerrilla Tactics for Gun Rights Warriors Seminar

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)-Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education’s annual legislative tactics seminar, taught by GRNC president Paul Valone, will teach you how to better defend your rights.

Far beyond the typical “write-your-congressman” approach, the updated and expanded seminar will feature hardball tactics for making politicians and corporations accede to your demands.

Learn why citizen groups often fail, and why the political process is not “broken.”

As one sage put it: “The legislative process works just fine. It just doesn’t work the way you think it does.”

Following the seminar, GRNC will conduct its meeting of the board of directors, after which attendees are invited to join us for drinks and dinner.

Date: Saturday, April 14, 2012

Location: Rights Watch International office, 2016 Cameron St., Suite 217, Raleigh, NC 27605.

Agenda:

• Legislative Tactics Seminar: 9:00 AM until 3:00 PM
• Board of Directors Meeting: 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM
• GRNC dinner get-together: 6:00 PM until?

Registration: Contact GRNC president Paul Valone at President@GRNC.org. Fee is $30, waived for active or new GRNC volunteers. Proof of a demonstrated history of supporting gun rights may be requested / required.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)-They have already drafted an ordinance that clearly violates state law.

Their ordinance employs the now typical dishonest strategy embraced by several other anti-gun municipalities.

This strategy involves tortuously redefining broad park areas to fit within narrow exclusions tacked onto the new “Castle Doctrine/Concealed Carry Permitted in Parks” law. As a result greenways, hiking trails and entire parks are slated for impermissible gun bans.

While Orange County Commissioners believe themselves to be above state law, they will happily subject you to the wrath of their municipal ordinance if you dare lawfully defend yourself and your family within their parks; including a $500 fine, six months incarceration, and permanent loss of your Constitutional RIGHT to bear arms.

Thanks to the vigilance and quick reporting of a GRNC member we have an opportunity to make the voice of reason heard before this abomination is approved.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: Attend Commissioners Meeting

Email Commissioners

Copy and paste email address list:

Temckee@co.orange.nc.us, syuhasz@co.orange.nc.us, bjacobs@co.orange.nc.us, gordonam@mindspring.com, vfoushee@co.orange.nc.us, phemminger@bellsouth.net, bpelissier@co.orange.nc.us

Deliver This Message

For email, use subject line: Comply with state law, do not ban guns in parks!

It has come to my attention that you intend to ban concealed carry permit holders from lawfully defending themselves in certain areas of Orange County parks. In order to do this you have planned to “redefine” certain park areas in an attempt to fit them under the narrow exclusions permitted under SL 2011-268.

This is clearly disrespectful and non-compliant with state law, and more troubling, a violation of our Constitutional rights to bear arms.

Why don’t you trust the citizens that elected you to responsibly defend themselves?

North Carolinian Concealed Handgun Permittees have shown themselves to be extremely responsible and are not a problem that you should be concerned about. Places within Orange County where citizens are not permitted to effectively defend themselves IS a problem that you should begin working to solve.

I will be following progress and will alert Grass Roots North Carolina if you make it necessary to do so.

Sincerely,

A Concerned NC voter

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Greensboro Show:GRNC needs volunteers to host the tables at the next gun show in Greensboro.

It will be held this weekend Jan. 28th & 29th and YOUR help is needed. We need all the available volunteer workers we can find.

If you could spare a morning or afternoon on one of those days it would be greatly appreciated. If you have an articulate friend whom you would like to introduce to gun rights activism please invite her or him to work with us at the show. It is not necessary for that person to be a current member.

Volunteers please email Jed Norris at jednorris@bellsouth.net or call at 336-674-5347 with your preferred day and time(s) to be scheduled to work. Please respond directly to Jed Norris by clicking on the link rather than replying to this alert. This will assure that your note will not be delayed or lost in the shuffle.

Paul Valone Briefs Progress Saturday
Come on out and volunteer or at least drop by on Saturday morning from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. GRNC President Paul Valone will be at the GRNC table briefing members of the progress of the efforts to achieve restaurant carry.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Crime has decreased in our great state everywhere that concealed carry was made legal 18 years ago. Unfortunately, that predictable improvement did not extend to areas like parks that remained off-limits to lawful self-defense.

Former Greenville Mayor Pat Dunn was an active member of NYC Mayor Bloomberg’s anti-gun organization, MAIG. One of her final acts was implementation of an over-reaching, anti-HB 650 gun ban in parks.

Dunn’s ban was so over-the-top it twisted the definition of “dog park” into “playground” ensuring that only defenseless dog-owners can run their pets off-leash in Greenville.

Dunn’s misguided ordinance will cost the City thousands of tax dollars to implement, will force Greenville to defend a host of clearly illegal laws, in addition to creating liability for assaults that may occur where effective defense has been unlawfully prevented.

WITN reports that the Greenville City Council is reconsidering these misguided laws over a weekend retreat: http://www.witn.com/home/headlines/137744963.html?storySection=comments.

Election of a new Mayor, Allen M. Thomas, as well as new City Council members brings hope that pro-freedom thinking may take hold within Greenville.

Let’s send this promising new Leadership our gun-owning, pro-self-defense, pro-personal responsibility vote of confidence!

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:
Email Greenville Leaders

Contact the Mayor and new Greenville City Council
Copy and Paste email addresses:

amthomas@greenvillenc.gov, rglover50@suddenlink.net, ksmith@greenvillenc.gov, mercerc99@yahoo.com, mjoyner@clementins.com, dmitchell@greenvillenc.gov, info@MarionBlackburn.com

Deliver This Message

Dear Greenville Representatives,

Greenville residents and other North Carolinians are encouraged by reports that you will consider rescinding the misguided and clearly illegal ordinance that prevents law-abiding concealed handgun permittees from effectively defending themselves and their families within Greenville parks.

These citizens are among the most law-abiding in our state and deserve your encouragement and support. Areas in which they have been permitted to carry in our state have seen a more than 40 % decrease in crime since “shall issue” law passed in NC in 1995.

This clear decrease in crime has not happened in areas where lawful carry has remained banned, such as within parks. The Daily Reflector recently reported that according to Greenville Police Department data, officers responded to 39 criminal incidents in the city’s parks and recreational facilities in 2005, and 93 incidents in 2010 – the most recent year for which complete data are available.

Crime is decreasing in Greenville, as it is across the rest of our state, except for within those areas where law-abiding citizens are not permitted an effective means of self-defense.

Please do the right thing and respect the rights of your citizens to effectively defend themselves and their families everywhere in Greenville. Reduce the area of “criminal empowerment zones” that still exist, and that unwise leaders have sought to maintain.

I will be following progress through Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A concerned NC voter

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Lawsuit Pending For Winston-Salem NC Gun Ban

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- GRNC seeking resident plaintiffs!

GRNC has just received legal analysis of Winston-Salem’s park ban, and the situation is even worse than originally thought. It is best we inform you of these developments as rapidly as possible – particularly because we need to immediately recruit Winston-Salem residents as plaintiffs!

WINSTON-SALEM PARK BAN VIOLATES STATE LAW!

You can find the law here: Winston-Salem Park Ordinance.

Specific problems include deliberate over-reaching by the City Council under Sec. 38-10 (a) (1): “Athletic facility means a building, structure or place including a walking trail, greenway and body of water such as a lake for engaging in sporting events, recreational activities, fitness or physical training”.

They plan to designate not only greenways and walking trails (both impermissible) but even whole lakes as “athletic facilities”.

Under (a) (2): “Playground means a piece of land used for and usually equipped with facilities for recreation especially by children including the adjoining area and shelter used by children for respite, eating and playing sedentary games.”

Since when are “sedentary games” and areas for eating “athletic facilities”?

Under subsection (d), they cite a long list of state parks allegedly containing “recreational facilities.” Under the statute, they need to specifically list each of the “recreational facilities” where concealed carry is banned — again, a violation of state law!

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact the Mayor and City Councilors of Winston-Salem, NC. If you have already emailed, contact them again!

Cut and paste email list: danbesse@danbesse.org, vivianb@cityofws.org, denisea@cityofws.org, robertc@cityofws.org, derwinm@cityofws.org, mollyl@cityofws.org, wandam@cityofws.org, jamestjr@cityofws.org, allenj@cityofws.org

Deliver This Message

City of Winston-Salem Representatives,

It is clear from your November 21st meeting that your City Attorney rewrote city ordinances not to comply with state law (HB 650, Castle Doctrine and Concealed Carry Permitted in Parks), but to take every opportunity to “not comply” with this important freedom-promoting new legislation.

The predictable result is an intentionally over-reaching ordinance that is in clear violation of state law.

You want to ban legal carry on greenways, walking trails, and lakes, none of which can reasonably be described as “athletic facilities”. If you attempt such a ban you will violate state law and subject your city to the consequences.

Even more outrageous is your intention to ban within areas intended for eating and playing sedentary games. Considering these areas as “athletic facilities” is absurd.

Your ordinance is illegal, irrational, unjustifiable and a clear example of disrespect for both state law and the Constitutional rights of free Americans.

It must be rescinded immediately.

I will be following progress through Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A concerned NC voter

GRNC is preparing to take appropriate legal action and needs to identify local plaintiffs

• Plaintiffs are currently needed for actions within Winston-Salem, Kernersville, Greenville and Smithfield. Please contact alert@grnc.org.
• Other municipalities may be added.
• Everyone should carefully monitor municipal ordinances, particularly those recently enacted.
• Any restrictions beyond “a playground, an athletic field, a swimming pool, or an athletic facility” should be immediately reported to alert@grnc.org.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- They’re angry that their “right” to infringe your rights have been taken by HB 650.

The Winston-Salem town council expressed outrage during their November 21st meeting that our state Assembly has “usurped” their “right” to disarm law-abiding citizens within city parks.

THE TOWN’S DISCUSSION WAS LACK OF GOVERNMENT REASON IN ACTION:

HB 650 was called “Objectionable”, “Unacceptable”, “Unforgivable”.

The same broken record reason for banning carry in parks was offered by Police Chief Scott Cunningham: “When a weapon is present the situation could escalate – to a fatal incident instead of bumps and bruises”.

Chief Cunningham also stated that Winston-Salem concealed carry permittees are, “very much law-abiding.”

What the Chief didn’t say is that there is no evidence that a permittee has been violent anywhere in NC. City Councilor Vivian H. Burke encouraged Winston-Salem citizens to “Occupy Raleigh” to protest HB 650. Mayor Allen Joines characterized HB 650 as having, “taken away the ability of city government to regulate its own affairs.”

It is clear that the Winston-Salem Mayor and City Council need a strong dose of reality-inducing reason to understand that the Second Amendment trumps any of their ordinances, and that it is they who serve at the Assembly’s pleasure.

And we are just the people to administer this badly-needed medicine.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact the Mayor and City Councilors of Winston-Salem, NC.

Cut and paste email list: danbesse@danbesse.org, vivianb@cityofws.org, denisea@cityofws.org, robertc@cityofws.org, derwinm@cityofws.org, mollyl@cityofws.org, wandam@cityofws.org, jamestjr@cityofws.org, allenj@cityofws.org

Deliver This Message

City of Winston-Salem Representatives,

It is clear from your November 21st meeting that your City Attorney rewrote city ordinances not to comply with state law (HB 650, Castle Doctrine and Concealed Carry Permitted in Parks), but to take every opportunity to “not comply” with this important freedom-promoting new legislation.

The resulting ordinance is an unreasonable infringement of Second Amendment rights that conflicts with the very intent of the new state law to provide state-wide uniformity. It also sends a troubling message of willful lack of cooperation with state government, under which you serve.

HB 650 was intended to increase the ability of law-abiding permittees to defend themselves and their families when visiting North Carolina parks. The need for citizens to be able to effectively defend themselves in Winston-Salem parks was made clear by Chief Scott Cunningham’s admission that crime is a problem in these areas. The severity of these problems across our state was made clear earlier this month by the brutal murder of Leroy Staton in Greenville’s Jaycee park. Based upon these established facts, your criticism of the Assembly’s enactment of HB 650 is inappropriate.

Chief Cunningham’s claim that disagreements will escalate to homicide is unreasonable: across the state over 330,000 permittees have had 16 years of opportunity to become violent and have not. The Chief’s concern is similar to those expressed earlier against “shall issue” laws; there was to be “blood in the street” and “lead flying through the air”. These fears have not been realized and, like concern of disagreements escalating to shoot-outs, are unjustified. The Chief himself admits that, “Concealed carry permittees are very much law-abiding.” Why do you mistrust them?

Your ordinance is illegal, irrational, unjustifiable and a clear example of disrespect for both state law and the Constitutional rights of free Americans.

It must be rescinded immediately.

I will be following progress through Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A concerned NC voter

GRNC is preparing to take appropriate legal action and needs to identify local plaintiffs.

• Plaintiffs are currently needed for actions within Winston-Salem, Kernersville, Greenville and Smithfield. Please contact alert@grnc.org.
• Other municipalities may be added.
• Everyone should carefully monitor municipal ordinances, particularly those recently enacted.
• Any restrictions beyond “a playground, an athletic field, a swimming pool, or an athletic facility” should be immediately reported to alert@grnc.org.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- The city council of Fayetteville NC claims to have been caught off guard by the implementation of HB 650 on Thursday, December 1st, so claims Mayor Tony Chavonne. So they meet tonight to consider the issue.

To give a flavor of the inclination of the city, Recreation Director Michael Gibson claims to respect the rights of lawful gun ownership, but illustrates a complete ignorance of the total lack of problems everywhere that legal concealed carry has been implemented by stating that he believes allowing it in areas where adults and children are together is “not a great idea” and that it makes him “uneasy.”

J.D. Pone, chairman of the Fayetteville-Cumberland Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission, makes no bones about his opposition. Pone says that he wished the city could continue to have a blanket ban on guns in all parks.

Yesterday’s Fayetteville Observer says: The item is on Monday’s consent agenda, which is reserved for noncontroversial items that require no discussion. On the night of meetings, council members can request to have items taken from the consent agenda for a debate and a separate vote.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

• Attend the meeting at 7:00 pm tonight.
• Contact the Mayor and City Councilors of Fayetteville, NC.
• Cut and paste email list: mayor@ci.fay.nc.us dhaire2@nc.rr.com kbates05@nc.rr.com kdavy@ci.fay.nc.us askia25@aol.com Bobbyhurst@aol.com wjlcrisp@aol.com vapplewhiteccd7@yahoo.com tmohn@aol.com jarp@ci.fay.nc.us

Deliver This Message

City of Fayetteville Representatives,

HB 650 was intended to increase the ability of law-abiding permittees to defend themselves and their families when visiting North Carolina parks. The need for citizens to be able to effectively defend themselves in Fayetteville’s parks has been played out in parks the state over such as earlier this month in Greenville by the brutal murder of Leroy Staton in Jaycee Park.

I urge you to remove all bans of lawful concealed carry in Fayetteville parks in the spirit if not the letter of HB 650.

I will be following progress through Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A concerned NC voter

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

New GRNC Weapons Help Defend Your Gun Owner Rights

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Gun rights supporters: We have some exciting news in this GRNC Update.

If nearly 18 years of defending the Second Amendment have taught GRNC leadership anything, it is that we must consolidate our wins. GRNC-led passage of House Bill 650 will dramatically improve your ability to defend your family.

Beyond even one of the strongest Castle Doctrine laws in the country, concealed carry and municipal and state parks, and other improvements, the NC Wildlife Resources Commission affirmed that the bill facilitates both concealed and open carry in most state game lands.

But just as GRNC killed the “Rapist Protection Act” in 2000 and then “mopped up” by decimating the so-called “Million” Mom March in North Carolina, we must now leverage our victory and continue the push to roll back decades of encroachment on our freedoms.

In coming months, you will see dramatic changes as we increase the size and impact of Grass Roots North Carolina – the gun rights organization which you have made the most vocal in the state. New, vibrant media, new tools for activating nearly 400,000 North Carolina gun owners.

But the most important element is you. Without your help – not somebody else’s – we will not be able to effectively defend your rights.

GRNC WEBSITE
Many of you have asked for an updated GRNC web site. Now you have it. With menus that provide ready access to vital information, easily accessible legislative alerts, searchable content, and the ability to contact GRNC leadership on vital issues, the new site equips you to defend against new and insidious threats to your rights.

As always, check: www.GRNC.org

You will find the new site features easily accessible legislative alerts displayed on the home page together with drop down menus giving ready access to GRNC’s many entities and services such as the GRNC Legislative Action Team, GRNC Political Victory Fund, “Remember in November” project, membership forms and questions, and far more.

To give gun owners a better idea of GRNC’s nearly 18-year string of victories, other sections feature videos of notable speakers and events, video and audio clips of GRNC interviews, GRNC-PVF radio spots attacking anti-gun candidates, and photos of events such as the GRNC Solidarity March, GRNC “Million” Mom Countermarch, and more.

Because the site is still under construction, gun rights supporters should check back often for new features. A discussion forum will follow soon. If you find “glitches,” please contact: webmaster@GRNC.org

GRNC ‘YouTube’ CHANNEL
For gun owners increasingly active with social media, GRNC has also started a YouTube channel available at: www.youtube.com/user/GRNCFFE%20%20

Beyond GRNC media interviews and events, we will soon introduce issue-specific videos to promote the gun rights agenda, so bookmark it for future reference.

GRNC ON FACEBOOK
And as a reminder, you can become even more in touch with the Second Amendment community by via GRNC’s Facebook page, which is now linked to the home page of the new site or available at: www.facebook.com/pages/Grass-Roots-North-Carolina-GRNC/146962105319196

There you will find not only the ability to communicate with other North Carolina gun rights supporters, but GRNC alerts and updates, information about gun shows GRNC works, and even the occasional (when he can overcome social media phobia) comment by GRNC president Paul Valone.

Find Your Representatives

• NC STATE House & Senate: http://www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm
• FEDERAL Congressman: http://www.house.gov/writerep/
• FEDERAL Senators: http://www.senate.gov/

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Now Greenville Mayor Pat Dunn leads a swan song cynical over-reach to circumvent HB 650. Apparently she refuses leave without also leaving her anti-freedom mark!

In violation of both the letter, and more importantly, spirit of the new state law that uniformly permits concealed carry within all North Carolina parks, the Greenville City Council, under out-going Mayor Pat Dunn, recently passed draconian legislation that mandates posting against carry in 25 broad areas and numerous sub-regions of Greenville parks - including a clear over-reaching ban in the city’s dog park!

• Dunn’s membership in New York City Mayor Bloomberg’s strident anti-gun MAIG organization was bad enough.
• Now, adding insult to injury, she seeks to make a final parting assault on lawful carry within Greenville’s recreational facilities.
• All this effort to disarm the law-abiding when violent crime in Greenville parks is a clear and present danger.
• Just last week Leroy Staton was brutally murdered in Jaycee Park. A park that will now be posted in seven areas.
• Every Greenville area that can be spun as a playground, an athletic field, a swimming pool, or athletic facility (and others that cannot) will be posted against lawful concealed carry.
• This type of exhaustive “kitchen sink” approach to bans is exactly what HB 650 was intended to prevent.
• This indiscriminate ban is clearly a cynical attempt to flout both state law, and Second Amendment rights.
• Such unreasonable and arrogant attempts to deprive free North Carolinians of their rights cannot and will not be tolerated!

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact

• Contact Mayor Pat Dunn, Mayor-Elect Allen Thomas, and the City Councilors of Greenville, NC.
• Tell them that Greenville, NC refuses to become a defenseless small-town image of NYC, Washington DC and Chicago.
• All of which are represented by MAIG members,
• All of which disarm the law-abiding to the benefit of violent criminals.
• Tell them to rescind their illegal ordinance!

Cut and paste email list:

pdunn2@suddenlink.net, athomasemail@gmail.com, bryantkittrell@kittrellandarmstrong.com, ksmith@greenvillenc.gov, rglover50@suddenlink.net, info@marionblackburn.com, mjoyner@clementins.com

Deliver the message below:

Deliver This Message

Greenville City Representatives,

It has come to my attention that you intend to ban guns within extensive areas under city control in response to recent ratification of HB 650, “Castle Doctrine and Concealed Carry Permitted in Parks”.

You should be aware that, although this new law does permit posting against concealed carry in certain clearly and very narrowly-defined areas, your recently-passed anti-gun ordinance is overly-broad and violates both the letter, and more importantly the spirit of this new, freedom-promoting state law.

In particular, banning of carry within the city’s off-leash dog park, that cannot be reasonably considered a “playground” is clearly in violation of state law. This also makes it clear that the ordinance was prepared to indiscriminately ban otherwise lawful carry within every region of Greenville that can be construed, however torturously, to be permissible under HB 650.

HB 650 was intended to create statewide uniformity in the regulation of legal carry. Your ordinance is a clear and cynical attempt to thwart this effort, and therefore must be rescinded immediately.

North Carolinian Concealed Handgun permitees have shown themselves to be extremely responsible and are not a problem that you should be concerned about. Places within Greenville where citizens are not permitted to effectively defend themselves IS a problem that you NEED TO BEGIN working to solve.

A clear example of the need for law-abiding Greenville citizens to be permitted effective means of self-defense is the this week’s brutal murder of Leroy Staton in Jaycee Park, a small facility within which you intend to post seven separate areas.

I insist that you abandon plans to disarm responsible permit holders, and immediately rescind your illegal ordinance.

I will be following progress through Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A concerned NC voter

GRNC is preparing to take appropriate legal action and needs to identify local plaintiffs

• Plaintiffs are currently needed for actions within Kernersville, Greenville and Smithfield. Please contact alerts@grnc.org.
• Other municipalities may be added.
• Everyone should carefully monitor municipal ordinances, particularly those recently enacted.
• Any restrictions beyond “a playground, an athletic field, a swimming pool, or an athletic facility” should be immediately reported to alerts@grnc.org.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- As we have been apprising you, the city of Garner has plans to abridge your right to self protection in city parks as recognized by HB 650.

Like a number of towns, Garner appears to be planning to use a broad interpretation of a loophole in the new law which allows a town to post “recreation areas.”

By employing this tactic, Garner would severely hamper your ability to protect yourself and your family within parks and sporting areas.

When the will of the people and the authority of the law have spoken in a manner not to their liking, expect power hungry local politicians to do one of two things. They will either ignore the law or they will twist it into a tortured interpretation to mean whatever they want it to.

As you have undoubtedly seen before, this does not necessarily have to be the final word. When you speak with one strong voice, they will hear you. As it has been said, when you turn up the heat they see the light.

You will need to attend their next meeting on Tuesday, November 22. Contact Sean Sorrentino, who will be coordinating our efforts in Garner at sean@seansorrentino.com for more information.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact

Email AND CALL the following people:

• Mayor Ronnie S. Williams – 919-773-4404; rwilliams@garnernc.gov
• Mayor Protem Kathy Behringer – 919-772-3515; kbehringer@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Ken Marshburn – 919-662-0902; kmarshburn@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Jackie Johns, Sr. – 919-772-0929; jjohns@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Gra Singleton – 919-772-0924; grantraceysingleton@earthlink.net
• Council Member Buck Kennedy – 919-624-3696; bkennedy@garnernc.gov

Deliver the message below:

ATTEND the meeting on November 22 at Garner Town Hall, Building B in the Council Meeting Room.

• Bring polite but pointed signs with the themes that
• Concealed handgun permit-holders have proven themselves responsible; and…
• People should be able to protect their families.

Deliver This Message

Dear Council Member:

I am writing to urge you to respect my right to self protection in city parks. The new law laid out in HB 650 mandates that you do so. It has been established that predators and other violent felons target defenseless citizens in places where the law abiding are not allowed their God given right to self protection.

In the years since its passing, the Concealed Carry law has shown those exercising that right to be sane, sober and law-abiding. Examine the facts rather than fabricated worst case scenarios and you are bound to reach the same conclusion. I will be monitoring your actions via Grass Roots North Carolina legislative alerts.

Respectfully,

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- KERNERSVILLE PARKS RESTRICTIONS
On Monday, GRNC reported that just before the election, the Kernersville Board of Aldermen snuck through a last minute gun ban in public parks which not only prohibits guns in the narrowly-defined “recreational facilities” within parks which may still be posted under the provisions of recently-passed House Bill 650, but also included walking and running trails - a clear violation of state law.

Gun rights supporters responded in force yesterday, electing at least two new pro-gun aldermen, removing anti-gun incumbent Bob Prescott, and prompting remaining incumbents Dana Jones and Tracy Shifflete to contact a GRNC representative to say they want to “fix” the problem. What they are willing to do remains to be seen, but suffice to say that your calls and e-mails delivered our message. We will keep you apprised of progress.

Please note, only 42 votes separated the 4 lowest vote getters in the Prescott race. More than likely YOUR votes made the difference.

EXPANDED CARRY ON STATE GAME LANDS
Yesterday, Gordon Meyers, Director of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission, stated that restrictions on both open and concealed carry in game lands would be lifted in accordance with section 14 of HB 650, and that carry would be permitted not only in state parks, but also game lands managed by the state but owned by the US Forest Service and others.

Section 14 of HB 650 says: “…it shall be lawful for a person to carry any firearm openly, or to carry a concealed handgun with a concealed carry permit, at any State-owned rest area, at any State-owned rest stop along the highways, and at any State-owned hunting and fishing reservation.”

We are gratified to see NCWRC take an expansive stance on interpreting the new language.

IMPORTANT CAVEATS
A limited number of game lands are exempted from the new law. According to NCWRC: “These exempted game lands are not state-owned game lands, but are lands enrolled in the WRC game lands program and owned by corporate entities, federal agencies, or other entities which requested the exemptions.”

For a list of exempted game lands, as well as firearms law on game lands in general, go to: www.ncwildlife.org/Licensing/Regulations/FireArmsandConcealedCarry.aspx

FIREARMS DISCHARGE ON GAME LANDS IS STILL PROHIBITED: Beyond the taking of game, you may NOT discharge firearms in these areas, and one expert advises that rattlesnakes you may encounter are protected species and may not be shot or otherwise destroyed. GRNC has won the right to defend yourself in these areas, but YOU must keep it by using and carrying firearms responsibly.

For information on rules governing firearms on game lands and other areas, go to:

• http://www.ncwildlife.org/Licensing/Regulations.aspx
• http://www.ncwildlife.org/Hunting/LawsSafety.aspx
• http://www.ncwildlife.org/Boating/LawsSafety/BoatingRegulations.aspx

Next Steps

Thanks to your calls and e-mails, GRNC is busy expanding firearms carry throughout the state. The next step?

Restaurant carry! Keep the pressure on!

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Did you hear the one about the city council that refused to take a stand on an abridgment of your rights and put off the vote until after the next election?

Well, we wish we were telling you a joke, but unfortunately this is all too serious. The city of Garner is planning to do just this under the guise of studying the issue.

Strangely enough the study period seems to end after the upcoming election; because a future meeting afterward is when they plan the vote on their ordinance which will attempt a flanking movement on the new law allowing concealed carry in parks.

With that in mind, it is imperative that you force them to take a position so their constituents may vote accordingly. Sending those planning to vote for this anti-freedom ordinance will have a chilling effect on others thinking of doing likewise.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact the following people:

• Mayor Ronnie S. Williams – 919-773-4404; rwilliams@garnernc.gov
• Mayor Protem Kathy Behringer – 919-772-3515; kbehringer@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Ken Marshburn – 919-662-0902; kmarshburn@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Jackie Johns, Sr. – 919-772-0929; jjohns@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Gra Singleton – 919-772-0924; grantraceysingleton@earthlink.net
• Council Member Buck Kennedy – 919-624-3696; bkennedy@garnernc.gov

Deliver the message below:

Dear Council Member:

It is time to take a stand one way or the other. I wish you to respect my right to self protection in parks as well as other places. Now it is time to let everyone know where you stand. Not after the election. Such political tricks will not be allowed. If you are comfortable and unashamed with your position, then go public with it.

I hope that you will respect my right to self protection in what are often dangerous locations, but equally important is that you must let me know if you respect my rights on this matter. I will be monitoring your actions via Grass Roots North Carolina legislative alerts.

Respectfully,

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- A great deal has been written about HR 822, a national reciprocity bill currently under consideration in Congress.

Some organizations are all for it and others fear and oppose it.

Many others, like GRNC, have remained on the sidelines.

One’s position seems to depend on how much one wants the federal government – even when well-intentioned – to be involved. Some like NRA want everything driven from the federal level, others are not nearly so trusting.

After being asked repeatedly, GRNC is now prepared to state an opinion on HR 822. Here’s our best shot at a “fair and balanced” depiction of the issue.

• Do we think it is horrible? Probably not.
• Do we think it is a good idea?
• Knowing Congress, probably not.

What we do know is this: GRNC passed an excellent concealed carry reciprocity law which has thus far captured 37 states. With the recent passage of HB 650, it is improved to a straight recognition law which might capture more. Federal intervention it seems would only add extra risk to the equation. This might prove unacceptable for North Carolina.

We believe that this is a case where states rights would likely serve best. One important question to ask is this: What excessive “compromises” will the NRA accede to in order to capture the highly restrictive states which do not currently offer us reciprocity.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

We may have more to lose than to gain through this legislation. For our money, we tend to support proven performance.

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- As we advised you a few days ago, Forsyth County Sheriff William Schatzman was requiring employment information on Concealed Carry applications.

Your voice has been heard. That information is no longer required.

While we would prefer its removal altogether, the fact that it has now been changed to optional is testimony to the power you exert when you speak with one voice.

Give yourselves a hand.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- It is almost a theorem that no sooner is a good law passed than bad politicians will attempt to bypass it.

Such is the case with the new parks carry law. The latest entrant into the contest is the town of Garner. On Monday, October 3 the city council will hold a meeting to consider changes in local ordinances in response to the new law.

Among things being discussed are the following:

A modification of their discharge ban which may be a violation of state law GS 160A-189. Involvement of the UNC School of Govt. and the NC Recreation & Park Assoc., including their opinion that the definition of “recreational facilities” will likely be clarified in a court challenge

Interestingly enough they seem to want to abide by the law. It is concerning that they don’t simply take the law at face value rather than trying to reinterpret it first. In any case, they need to hear from you, especially if you live in Garner.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact the following people:

• Mayor Ronnie S. Williams – 919-773-4404; rwilliams@garnernc.gov
• Mayor Protem Kathy Behringer – 919-772-3515; kbehringer@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Ken Marshburn – 919-662-0902; kmarshburn@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Jackie Johns, Sr. – 919-772-0929; jjohns@garnernc.gov
• Council Member Gra Singleton – 919-772-0924; grantraceysingleton@earthlink.net
• Council Member Buck Kennedy – 919-624-3696; bkennedy@garnernc.gov

Deliver This Message

Dear Council Members:

I urge you to respect the new law allowing law abiding citizens the right to self protection within parks. Concealed carry holders have repeatedly proven to be sane, sober and law abiding over the last 16 years that North Carolina’s CCW ordinance has been in force. Any concerns you have in regards to concealed carry in parks are totally unfounded. Not only have the “wild west” scenarios laid out by those unwisely opposing this law not materialized, but in fact everywhere this has been tried, crime has gone down.

Any move to limit my rights will factor into any spending decisions I may make in regards to your town. There will also be a toll to pay at the polls in the subsequent elections.

Respect my right to self protection in what are often dangerous locations. I will be monitoring your actions via Grass Roots North Carolina legislative alerts.

Respectfully,

Find Your Representatives

• NC STATE House & Senate: http://www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm
• FEDERAL Congressman: http://www.house.gov/writerep/
• FEDERAL Senators: http://www.senate.gov/

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- RINO William T. Schatzman has taken it upon himself to unlawfully collect employment information as part of concealed handgun permit applications processed in Forsyth Co.

And we have patiently and politely asked him to stop breaking State Law multiple times and in multiple ways.

Our advice has fallen upon deaf, and apparently arrogant ears.

Now the gloves come off…

• N.C. Gen. Stat. § 14-415.14 is perfectly clear about what information is allowed to be collected in concealed handgun permit applications.
• Sheriff Schatzman (GRNC 0-star) has been unlawfully requiring applicants to provide employment information.
• The fact that such unauthorized collection of information violates State law had been made clear to the Sheriff more than once.
• The Sheriff has arrogantly chosen to ignore our requests to stop, and continues breaking State Law.

He may believe that Sheriffs can ignore and/or make new laws while enforcing those on the books. Schatzman needs to learn that EVERYONE in our State obeys the laws of North Carolina – or pays the price!

• Let’s remind this elected Public Servant who he serves.
• Remind him yet again that he has been willfully breaking State law.
• Let’s point-out that in-order to prevent similar rogue behavior in Florida the legislature passed a PERSONAL $5000 fine for similar preemption of firearms laws – we can do the same.
• And finally, that should he continue unlawful data collection our next step will be a boycott of Forsyth County businesses – by gunowners statewide.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: Contact Schatzman via phone and email!

Try to call BETWEEN 9 and 10 am tomorrow (Friday, September 23) at (336) 917-7001, (336) 399-1442 and (336) 727-8070. If these times aren’t convenient for you, CALL WHEN YOU CAN!

Tell him to stop illegal collection of employment information as part of CHP applications.

Email the Sheriff at schatzwt@fcso.us.

Deliver the following message:

Sheriff Schatzman,

It has come to my attention that you have been willfully and unlawfully collecting employment information as part of concealed handgun permit applications in Forsyth County, NC.

As an elected Public Servant you have the same obligation to follow State law as do other citizens of North Carolina. Just because you were elected to enforce the law does not mean that you have somehow risen above it.

I strongly urge you to stop your unlawful data collection. As you may know, the State of Florida has enacted a PERSONAL $5000 fine for government officials who unlawfully preempt state firearms laws. Working with Grass Roots North Carolina I will happily advocate for similar legislation in our General Assembly if you choose to make this necessary.

If you do not immediately cease and desist your unlawful data collection, GRNC’s next step will be to implement a boycott of Forsyth Co. businesses by gun owners statewide.

I sincerely hope that you will not make this necessary, as it will be unpleasant to be forced to punish business owners by a rogue Sheriff that they may not have even voted for.

I will be following progress, and will work with Grass Roots North Carolina to initiate the steps outlined above if you make it necessary to do so.

Please don’t.

Sincerely,

A concerned NC voter

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- According to Havelock Mayor Jimmy Sanders, “I’m not going to get into the Constitutional rights, all I want to say is I would plead with this board to direct the city manager to work to get an ordinance that does not allow concealed weapons in recreational facilities. I cannot put it any farther or any plainer!”

At least the Mayor is honest enough to admit that he doesn’t care about the Constitutional rights of Havelock citizens.

Now, with similar honesty, we need to inform him that in addition to defense against violent crime, this type of governmental arrogance is exactly why the Second Amendment needs protection!

The Mayor of Havelock, NC doesn’t care about the Second Amendment.
He has directed the Havelock Board of Commissioners to pass a city ordinance to ban concealed carry in recreational areas.
Parks, and other “gun-free” areas within our State are particularly attractive to violent criminals.

We need to vigorously oppose this type of misguided promotion of “victim disarmament zones”.

Immediate action is needed to stamp-out municipal gun bans before they spread!

Contact the Mayor and Board of Commissioners of Havelock, NC. Tell them to start respecting the Constitution and to stop promoting dangerous gun-free zones!

While we’re at it, before we get the bad news that similar anti-freedom plans are being hatched in our own backyards, let’s preemptively contact our Municipal and County representatives to discourage similar attacks on self-defense before they happen!

Find the websites for your personal municipality and county. Contact EACH and EVERY representative via at least email and also by phone if possible: Town/City/County, Councilors/Aldermen/ Commissioners, etc.

Let them know that disarming law-abiding concealed handgun permittees is dangerous and will lead to increases in violent crime.

Let them know that you will be watching and will work with Grass Roots North Carolina to fight any attempt to disarm law-abiding people in any section of a park.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact the Commissioners and Mayor of Havelock, NC. Email them at: dsmith@havelocknc.us; JSanders@HavelockNC.US; WLewis@HavelockNC.US; BPriesing@HavelockNC.us; GLiner@HavelockNC.us; JStuart@HavelockNC.US; DWalsh@HavelockNC.US;

Find the website for your personal municipality and county and send a similar messages to each and every representative via email and/or phone. Deliver this (polite) message:

Dear Havelock City and Park Officials,

It has come to my attention that you intend to ban concealed carry permit holders from carrying a concealed handgun in certain areas of Havelock parks, such as athletic fields and playgrounds, in response to recent ratification of HB 650, “Castle Doctrine and Concealed Carry Permitted in Parks”.

The Sun Journal recently quoted Parks & Recreation Director Dave Smith as saying “I can’t think of a single reason why there would ever be a need for a handgun in a playground area where we have young children and families participating. I can’t think of any good reason for a handgun to be in any of our parks that we have…”

If you took the time to review the existing evidence*, you would know that in every jurisdiction where law-abiding citizens with CCH permits have been allowed to carry a concealed firearm, violent crime has gone down, not up. This includes states, municipalities, parks, restaurants, and even bars. CCH permit holders have been vetted by local law-enforcement and the FBI to be law-abiding, sane, sober, trained in the use of a firearm, and knowledgeable of the laws regarding self-defense. Everyone, including parents and children at a ball game, are safer when one is nearby. Someday your life or the life of someone you love may be saved by a CCH permit holder.

We live in a dangerous society. I’m sure you recall the deadly massacre at Virginia Tech in 2007. By banning guns from responsible (and permit-carrying) adults in your parks, you are creating an environment much like the Virginia Tech campus where guns were banned, yet a criminal came with a gun anyway. Is it not obvious to you that criminals are attracted to places they know they will not meet armed resistance?

You should be aware that unless you are placing armed guards to provide security at your parks, your proposed gun ban may open Havelock to expensive lawsuits in the event of an assault by a criminal in your parks.

Despite the legal possibility of posting against concealed carry in narrowly-defined areas of Havelock parks, I encourage you not do so; it is a bad idea as it leaves law-abiding individuals and families defenseless against ever-increasing violent crime.

North Carolinian Concealed Handgun Permittees have shown themselves to be extremely responsible and are not a problem that you should be concerned about. Places within Havelock where citizens are not permitted to effectively defend themselves IS a problem that you should begin working to solve.

I will be following progress and will alert Grass Roots North Carolina if you make it necessary to do so.

Sincerely,

A concerned NC voter

* suggested reading: “More Guns, Less Crime: Understanding Crime and Gun Control Laws”, Third Edition (Studies in Law and Economics) by John R. Lott Jr.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- At precisely the moment House Bill 111 for concealed carry in restaurants is languishing in the Senate Judiciary II Committee, a western North Carolina man is being prosecuted for carrying a firearm in violation of GS 14-269.3 – a place where “alcohol is sold and consumed” – EVEN THOUGH HE IS CLEARLY INNOCENT.

To be clear: GRNC is not defending the actions of the man in question. He also faces the common law charge of “going armed to the terror of the public” and might well be guilty as charged. But the arrogance of local law enforcement and the district attorney clearly signal that you too might come under the prosecutorial knife, and that we need restaurant carry RIGHT NOW!

Arrested in Burnsville, Larry Dean Hunter is charged with “Going armed to the terror of the public” and violating GS 14-269.3, which bars firearms “where alcoholic beverages are sold and consumed.” The problem? He was arrested for displaying a firearm in an INGLES SUPERMARKET, where alcohol might be sold, but is definitely not “consumed.”

An innocent mistake on the part of law enforcement? Think again. GRNC president Paul Valone actually called the office of District Attorney Jerry Wilson, representing Avery, Madison, Mitchell, Watauga, and Yancey Counties.

Here is how the conversation went:

Valone: “I am calling regarding the potential misinterpretation of a pending case regarding our concealed handgun statute in Yancey County. Can you direct me who to talk to?”

D.A. office: “Are you a defendant or a relative in the case?”

Valone: “I don’t want to talk about the case. I want to talk to the District Attorney about GS 14-269.3.”

D.A. office: “I’m terminating this call now.” CLICK.

Given that GRNC had already made attempts to contact the Burnsville Chief of Police, Brian Buchanan, and did contact the town’s mayor, Danny McIntosh, it is safe to say that D.A. Jerry Wilson is aware of the case and dodging questions on a prosecution they clearly intend to continue, despite the fact that GS 14-269.3 clearly does not apply.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact

• CALL ELECTED DISTRICT ATTORNEY JERRY WILSON and let him know you are on to his scam: Wilson’s office number is 828-268-6610.
• CONTACT BURNSVILLE MAYOR DANNY MCINTOSH and deliver the message that he needs to keep a tighter leash on his clearly anti-gun Chief of Police, Brian Buchanan. McIntosh can be reached at either mayor@townofburnsville.org or 828-682-2420.
• CONTACT SEN. PHIL BERGER: This is most important. As President Pro Tem of the NC Senate, it is Berger who controls the fate of HB 111 for concealed carry in restaurants which serve alcohol. E-mail AND call Berger at Phil.Berger@ncleg.net and (919) 733-5708. Deliver the message below.

DELIVER THIS MESSAGE

Dear Senator Berger:

Your inaction in passing concealed carry in restaurants is now resulting in criminal prosecution by a malicious district attorney who is reading the ban on firearms in places where alcohol is sold and consumed to include even grocery stores. The D.A. is Jerry Wilson of Watauga County and the citizen is Jerry Dean Hunter, who is being prosecuted for having a gun in an Ingles Supermarket.

Passing the restaurant carry language in House Bill 111, which is still alive but languishing in the Senate Judiciary II Committee, could solve the problem. Moreover, it could deter crime. According to the Richmond “Times-Dispatch,” after Virginia passed restaurant carry, major crimes in restaurants dropped by 5.2%.

Gun owners didn’t give control of the legislature to Republicans only to have them slavishly adhere to polling of a public which is unaware that permit-holders would still be prohibited from imbibing alcohol. And reports that you refused to include restaurant carry in House Bill 650 in order to protect Republican legislators in marginal districts are now moot: Republicans redrew the districts.

If Republicans want continued support from Second Amendment advocates, they should deliver on legislation they were elected to pass. I will be monitoring your actions via Grass Roots North Carolina legislative alerts.

Respectfully,

HELP GRNC PASS RESTAURANT CARRY
We have a few short months before the legislature returns to Raleigh – and then few short weeks to pass restaurant carry before the opportunity is lost, perhaps forever. To pass House Bill 111, GRNC wants to do a public education campaign to counter media misinformation about “drunks with guns.” But to do that, we need money – money which right now we don’t have. Will you help?

JOIN GRNC OR SIGN UP NEW MEMBERS: If you are not already a member, please join! If you are, please renew! If you know someone who isn’t, sign them up! Go to: http://grnc.org/join_grnc/join_grnc.htm

DONATE TO GRNC:
Beyond even membership, we need your donations. As a volunteer organization, we promise to deliver “Max bang for your legislative buck.” To donate, go to:

http://grnc.org/join_grnc/contribute.htm

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- “The idea of a concealed-carry in an Applebee’s bothered people…” - Republican Speaker Thom Tillis, after restaurant carry language was removed from gun legislation which passed.

[Analysis] With HB 650 signed by the Governor and scheduled to become law on December 1, congratulations are due to all who responded to GRNC alerts by calling and e-mailing the NC General Assembly.

Thanks are also due volunteers of the Legislative Action Team for many hours spent at the legislature, our Director and Co-Director of Communications for dozens of alerts, often sent with little notice, to our Webmaster for alerts promptly posted, to gun show volunteers for alerts distributed to thousands of gun owners and to all others who helped win this crucial victory. Once again, you have demonstrated the value of an all-volunteer organization in defending our rights.

CHAMPS
As usual, politicians’ records are more checkered. Heroes of the General Assembly include Rep. Mark Hilton (R-Catawba, GRNC ****), who acted as primary sponsor for nearly all gun bills in the House; Sen. Buck Newton (R-Nash, Wilson, ****), who spent long hours restructuring bills to make them acceptable to leadership, and who delivered on committee hearings promised, House Rules Chairman Tim Moore (R-Cleveland, ****), for courage in giving hearings to bills not always favorably regarded by leadership, Sens. Debbie Clary (R-Cleveland, Rutherford, ****) and Andrew Brock (R-Davie, Rowan, ****), for working to support numerous pro-gun bills, Rep. George Cleveland (R-Onslow, ****) for his stalwart support in committee and during floor debates, Rep. Glen Bradley (R-Franklin, Halifax, Nash, ****) for introducing the “Firearms Freedom Act” and for supporting gun bills on the floor, and Rep. Kelly Hastings(R-Cleveland, Gaston, ****) for being the most tenacious Second Amendment supporter among incoming House freshman.

CHUMPS
House Majority Leader Paul (“Skip”) Stam (R-Wake, GRNC eval. under review) worked to weaken both Castle Doctrine and HB 650, and then paradoxically voted for final passage of both. From his proposed committee substitute for Castle Doctrine to apparently orchestrating the McGrady amendment, which removed language for guns in locked vehicles at places of employment from HB 650 (during which debate Stam employed the bizarre argument that he owns everything which crosses his property), to objecting in caucus to bringing gun bills to committee votes, Stam worked to undermine gun bills in the GOP caucus.

Beyond the usual anti-gun Democrats, others who worked to subvert your rights included Rep. Deborah Ross (D-Wake, 0-star), who tried to insert a “poison pill” into HB 111 for parks and restaurant carry, Rep. David Guice(R-Henderson, Polk, Transylvania, GRNC eval. under review) who weakened parks carry by exempting certain recreational facilities, and Rep. Chuck McGrady

(R-Henderson, GRNC eval. under review), who offered the amendment to remove guns in locked vehicles from HB 650. Perhaps most pathetic was Sen. Ellie Kinnaird

(D-Orange, Person, 0-star), who after initially being ruled out of order during the floor debate over HB 650, eventually managed to insert her usual anti-gun screed (albeit pointlessly) into the record, neatly lumping gun owners in with terrorists. Poor, old Ellie. She seems increasingly out of touch.

NC Senator Berger quickly forgot the pro gun voters who put him in office.

Disappointing
Frankly, we expected more from Republican leadership, specifically Speaker Thom Tillis (R-Mecklenburg, ****) and Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger(R-Guilford, Rockingham, ****). But it quickly became apparent that support for gun rights voters who helped “bring ‘em to the dance” would be forthcoming only insofar as it could be done without sticking their necks out.

What resulted was a “thrust and parry” fencing match as we pressured chamber leaders to move gun legislation and they responded by adding and then removing bills from committee calendars, playing a “shell game” of inserting gun language into this or that bill, insisting on veto-proof majorities rather than simple majorities before bringing bills to the floor, and worst of all, removing items deemed “too controversial” from the legislation which passed.

What we got…and what we will
The result was, at best, half a loaf. We got the long-awaited Castle Doctrine, and somewhat weakened version of the parks carry GRNC has sought since 1997, and some other enhancements. Meanwhile, Tillis and Berger nixed guns in locked vehicles at places of employment, guns in locked compartments on educational property, and concealed carry in restaurants. The stated reason for the latter was poor polling on the topic.

Said Speaker Tillis to the Charlotte Observer: ““The idea of a concealed-carry in an Applebee’s bothered people…”

The good news is that HB 111 - which contains restaurant carry - passed the House and remains alive for consideration when the legislature convenes next year. GRNC will be working hard on a campaign to pass it. As an opening shot, we suggest gun rights supporters contact Senator Berger and Speaker Tillis and tell them that what “bothers” them are Republican leaders who more or less immediately forgot who put them there.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Celebrate by knowing you just won back a little piece of your freedom!

Generally, gun rights supporters can expect to get slammed in news interviews. At best, they might get a 15-second sound bite.

So imagine our surprise when WRAL reporter Stacy Davis contacted us to do a reasonably extensive piece on Castle Doctrine.

Then imagine our delight when the piece turned out to be well thought out and balanced, and even dispels common misconceptions about the topic.

HELP ENSURE PRO-GUN MEDIA LIKE THIS IN THE FUTURE:

• View the complete article  and video by going to: http://www.wral.com/news/state/nccapitol/story/9805007/

Thank Stacy Davis and WRAL for the balanced piece:

• WRAL: http://www.wral.com/apps/feedback/feedback/?d_id_person=525
• Stacy Davis: http://www.wral.com/rs/bio/3463714/

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Congratulations! Your calls and emails have proven once again the power you wield.

Despite an orchestrated effort by anti-gunners and their associates in the media to depict this bill as dangerous with little public support, HB 650 has been signed into law by Governor Beverly Perdue.

Once it became clear that all our provisions had to be included in one large gun bill, GRNC fought to include Castle Doctrine and Carry in Parks provisions in this bill.

Of course none of this would have been possible had GRNC not managed to remove former House Majority Leader Hugh Holliman from his position in the last election.

Holliman had blocked Castle Doctrine from coming to a vote for several years. The Parks Carry provision caps an effort GRNC spearheaded dating back to 1997.

You - our supporters - have accomplished a vast amount in this one session on the heels of your hard work in the last election.

GRNC rewards cooperation. In this spirit, Governor Perdue has managed to raise her GRNC star rating due to her timely signing of this valuable law.

Thank These People:

Rep. Mark Hilton – 919-733-5988, Mark.Hilton@ncleg.net
Sen. Buck Newton – (919) 715-3030, Buck.Newton@ncleg.net
Gov. Beverly Perdue – Phone: (800) 662-7952 or (919) 733-2391, Fax: (919) 733-2120, governor.office@nc.gov

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- We’ve respectfully asked the Governor to act quickly on HB 650, but that hasn’t happened.

Let’s push a little harder to finish this job that we’ve all worked so hard on.

There is no reason that HB 650 should not be signed. Let’s CALL the Governor and let her know that delays are unacceptable.

Here are some points to make, and respectfully ask the staff member you speak with to write them down and tell Governor Perdue:

• HB 650 has been stripped of “lightning rod” issues.
• It has been thoroughly vetted by parties affected.
• It passed both House and Senate with bipartisan support.
• It is supported by both GRNC and NRA.
• Signing the bill into law will strengthen the Governor’s pro-gun reputation.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:

Contact
Make plans to Call Governor Perdue Monday morning at: (800) 662-7952 or (919) 733-2391.
Politely make the points detailed above and respectfully request that the Governor sign HB 650 into law without delay.

Find Your Representatives

• NC STATE House & Senate: http://www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm
• FEDERAL Congressman: http://www.house.gov/writerep/
• FEDERAL Senators: http://www.senate.gov/

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Media gun-grabbers are trying to increase the odds that you will by blitzing HB 650, “Amend Various Gun Laws/ Castle Doctrine”

A coordinated effort is underway by the North Carolina liberal media to make you a felon … by stripping out language from HB 650 – “Amend Various Gun Laws/ Castle Doctrine” that would enable concealed handgun permit-holders to lawfully keep a firearm locked in a vehicle on educational property.

You just might become a FELON if:

• You’ve ever borrowed your spouse’s car to take the kids to school and didn’t realize he or she had a gun anywhere in the vehicle; YOU ARE A FELON!
• If you ever drive on a street that crosses a college campus with your hunting rifle locked securely in the trunk, even if you never get out of the vehicle; YOU ARE A FELON!
• “If you ever drive onto any property owned by the University of North Carolina system – whether or not it has a campus on it (UNC owns large tracts of undeveloped land) and whether or not you even knew it was owned by UNC; YOU ARE A FELON!”

The gun-grabbers want your Second Amendment rights to be as infringed as possible, and they want you to be disarmed dependents of their nanny-state incapable of functioning normally when bearing arms.

Some Legislators are doing the right thing by standing on principle and resisting the media nonsense! They deserve and NEED our voices to join with theirs! WE NEED to fight in the media so that THEY can fight in the Assembly. Here’s a case in-point; Representative Kelly Hastings (R, GRNC-****) has commented on the Shelby Star piece (http://www.shelbystar.com/news/grounds-55867-guns-lawmakers.html) vigorously defending his position on HB 650 – he deserves our thanks, and some help to deflect the liberal Chicken Littles (join his comments first, and send him an email of support: Kelly.Hastings@ncleg.net).

We need to respond WITH AUTHORITY in two ways: by writing our own editorial letters; and by commenting on anti-gun pieces on newspaper websites. Let no anti-gun statement be made unopposed!

Here are points to make in letters and comments:

• Current laws make accidental felons out of thousands of people who unknowingly transit educational property (not all educational property comprises campuses – public streets run through some, such as Hillsboro St. in Raleigh).
• Where does mass-violence typically occur? Schools! Because they are ‘gun free zones’! See http://sn112w.snt112.mail.live.com/default.aspx?wa=wsignin1.0, and http://www.davekopel.com/2a/othwr/principal&gun.htm
• Clear evidence, from scholarly studies demonstrate ‘gun free zones’ attract violence, and ‘right to carry’ laws decrease it: See http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=272929
• Where are school shootings not a problem? ISRAEL, surrounded by violence and hostility, but where teachers AND STUDENTS are ENCOURAGED to carry concealed weapons! See http://www.canfirearms.ca/Skeeter/Lott/Lott1.html

What YOU can do…

• Monitor the Opinion pages of your local newspaper for pieces critical of HB 650 and weapons on educational property. RESPOND to editorials and letters – each and EVERY one!
• Monitor your local newspaper’s website for gun rights-related pieces, especially anti-HB 650 opinions, and comment on EVERY one!

We’ve won some battles, but the WAR is still in play. If we all do our part WE WILL WIN!

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED:
Write and Comment

• Write a letter to the Editor of your local paper in support of HB 650, Castle Doctrine protection for North Carolinians, and reduction of malicious gun-related entrapment laws.
• Register on the website of your local paper and monitor the Opinion and Editorial pages for content critical of Second Amendment Rights. Notify GRNC of any hostile content you encounter by email (alert@grnc.org), and respond to each item with a Comment. Use the points highlighted above to guide your responses.

This effort is significant, but if we want to keep and bear arms in North Carolina, we ALL need to ACT NOW!

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Senators NEED TO SUPPORT THIS BILL WITHOUT ANY AMENDMENTS!

The political games being played in our General Assembly are becoming sillier by the hour, but this may work in our favor in-terms of getting desperately-needed Castle Doctrine and Carry in Parks legislation passed.

These laws have now been “hidden” in SB 679 to soothe gutless legislators worried that pro-gun laws “don’t poll well“.

Our Senators Need Some Reminding …

The RIGHT to Keep and Bear Arms is not subject to opinion polls. Castle Doctrine protection is LONG OVERDUE.

Gun-free zones are magnets for violent crime and only disarm law-abiding citizens that deserve an effective means of defense.

IMMEDIATELY CONTACT ALL MEMBERS OF THE NC SENATE

Contact

Email all members of the Senate (there are TWO address lists following the message).
Send TWO emails contacting half the Senators at a time (The list below is broken into two parts for convenient copy-and-paste addressing as emails to the entire Senate are now flagged as spam, and not delivered).

Deliver this message:

Dear Senator:

SB 679, “An Act To Amend The Castle Doctrine, To Allow Persons With Concealed Handgun Permits To Carry A Handgun in a Park…,” has become essential legislation. Please disregard misleading opinion polls and concentrate on restoring essential rights of law-abiding North Carolinians. Citizens need, deserve and have the right to effectively defend home and hearth, and themselves in parks that have become “gun-free zone” magnets for violent crime.

I urge you support and pass this important bill without ANY amendments, however well-intentioned they may appear. I will be monitoring the progress of SB 679 and your actions on this matter through the alerts of Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A Concerned North Carolina Voter

COPY AND PASTE CONTACT LIST EMAIL NOW!

Contact these Senators in your first email:

Austin.Allran@ncleg.net, Tom.Apodaca@ncleg.net, Bob.Atwater@ncleg.net, Doug.Berger@ncleg.net, Phil.Berger@ncleg.net, Stan.Bingham@ncleg.net, Harris.Blake@ncleg.net, Dan.Blue@ncleg.net, Andrew.Brock@ncleg.net, Harry.Brown@ncleg.net, Peter.Brunstetter@ncleg.net, Debbie.Clary@ncleg.net, Daniel.Clodfelter@ncleg.net, Warren.Daniel@ncleg.net, Charlie.Dannelly@ncleg.net, Jim.Davis@ncleg.net, Don.East@ncleg.net, James.Forrester@ncleg.net, Linda.Garrou@ncleg.net, Thom.Goolsby@ncleg.net, Malcolm.Graham@ncleg.net, Rick.Gunn@ncleg.net, Kathy.Harrington@ncleg.net

Contact these Senators in your second email:

Fletcher.Hartsell@ncleg.net, Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net, Neal.Hunt@ncleg.net, Brent.Jackson@ncleg.net , Clark.Jenkins@ncleg.net, Edward.Jones@ncleg.net, Ellie.Kinnaird@ncleg.net, Eric.Mansfield@ncleg.net, Floyd.McKissick@ncleg.net, Wesley.Meredith@ncleg.net, Martin.Nesbitt@ncleg.net, Buck.Newton@ncleg.net, Louis.Pate@ncleg.net, Jean.Preston@ncleg.net, William.Purcell@ncleg.net, Bill.Rabon@ncleg.net, Gladys.Robinson@ncleg.net, David.Rouzer@ncleg.net, Bob.Rucho@ncleg.net, Dan.Soucek@ncleg.net, Josh.Stein@ncleg.net, Richard.Stevens@ncleg.net, Jerry.Tillman@ncleg.net, Tommy.Tucker@ncleg.net, Don.Vaughan@ncleg.net, Michael.Walters@ncleg.net, Stan.white@ncleg.net

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- HB 650, the massive gun bill we have been telling you about is now passed in House Judiciary C Sub-Committee.

We now need you to contact the full House list to express your support for this important bill.

To recap:
HB 650 is a huge and aggressive bill, meaning it will be difficult to pass. But if passed, it will go far toward reversing the creeping encroachment on gun owners’ rights perpetuated in previous sessions of the legislature, including (but not limited to):

• Castle Doctrine (yet another vehicle for popular Castle Doctrine is now moving);
• Reducing penalties for carrying firearms on “educational property,” including a protection against accidentally becoming a criminal by requiring that offenders “knowingly” brought the gun onto educational property;
• Enabling concealed carry at events for which admission is charged;
• Reducing penalties for a host of minor (often inadvertent) gun violations;
• Adding protections for gun owners whose guns are confiscated pursuant to domestic protective orders;
• Improves concealed handgun reciprocity to straight recognition of out-of-state permits;
• Removes provisions for concealed handgun applicants under which sheriffs are conducting intrusive investigations of medical history; and
• Enabling employees to keep guns in locked vehicles at places of employment.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

CONTACT ALL MEMBERS of the NC House (copy and paste list below).

DELIVER THE FOLLOWING MESSAGE:

Dear Representative:

I am writing to urge your support of HB 650, “Amend Various Gun Laws.” It is vital that this important bill become law. It will provide such needed measures as Castle Doctrine. It will provide for the defense needs of our citizens as well as providing important legal protections.

I will be following the progress of this bill with great interest through the alerts of Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A Concerned North Carolina Voter

CONTACT THESE LEGISLATORS

Larry.Bell@ncleg.net, William.Brisson@ncleg.net, Garland.Pierce@ncleg.net, Ray.Rapp@ncleg.net, Winkie.Wilkins@ncleg.net, Michael.Wray@ncleg.net, Bill.Faison@ncleg.net, Rick.Glazier@ncleg.net, Frank.Iler@ncleg.net, Joe.Tolson@ncleg.net, Edith.Warren@ncleg.net, Bill.Cook@ncleg.net, Nelson.Dollar@ncleg.net, Jean.Farmer-Butterfield@ncleg.net, Mike.Hager@ncleg.net, Dewey.Hill@ncleg.net, Carolyn.Justice@ncleg.net, James.Langdon@ncleg.net, Marvin.Lucas@ncleg.net, William.McGee@ncleg.net, Marian.McLawhorn@ncleg.net, Gaston.Pridgen@ncleg.net, William.Wainwright@ncleg.net, Harry.Warren@ncleg.net, Kelly.Alexander@ncleg.net, Marilyn.Avila@ncleg.net, Jeff.Barnhart@ncleg.net, Hugh.Blackwell@ncleg.net, John.Blust@ncleg.net, Jamie.Boles@ncleg.net, Glen.Bradley@ncleg.net, Bill.Brawley@ncleg.net, Larry.Brown@ncleg.net, Rayne.Brown@ncleg.net, Harold.Brubaker@ncleg.net, Justin.Burr@ncleg.net, George.Cleveland@ncleg.net, Jeff.Collins@ncleg.net, Jim.Crawford@ncleg.net, Bill.Current@ncleg.net, Leo.Daughtry@ncleg.net, Jimmy.Dixon@ncleg.net, Jerry.Dockham@ncleg.net, Elmer.Floyd@ncleg.net, Dale.Folwell@ncleg.net, Phillip.Frye@ncleg.net, Mitch.Gillespie@ncleg.net, David.Guice@ncleg.net, Kelly.Hastings@ncleg.net, Mark.Hilton@ncleg.net, Mark.Hollo@ncleg.net, Bryan.Holloway@ncleg.net, Julia.Howard@ncleg.net, Pat.Hurley@ncleg.net, Dan.Ingle@ncleg.net, Linda.Johnson2@ncleg.net, Bert.Jones@ncleg.net, Jonathan.Jordan@ncleg.net, Ric.Killian@ncleg.net, Stephen.LaRoque@ncleg.net, David.Lewis@ncleg.net, Danny.McComas@ncleg.net, Darrell.McCormick@ncleg.net, Pat.McElraft@ncleg.net, Grey.Mills@ncleg.net, Tim.Moffitt@ncleg.net, Tim.Moore@ncleg.net, Bill.Owens@ncleg.net, Shirley.Randleman@ncleg.net, Efton.Sager@ncleg.net, Ruth.Samuelson@ncleg.net, Norman.Sanderson@ncleg.net, Mitchell.Setzer@ncleg.net, Tim.Spear@ncleg.net, Paul.Stam@ncleg.net, Edgar.Starnes@ncleg.net, Fred.Steen@ncleg.net, Sarah.Stevens@ncleg.net, Michael.Stone@ncleg.net, Thom.Tillis@ncleg.net, Roger.West@ncleg.net, Marcus.Brandon@ncleg.net, John.Faircloth@ncleg.net, Ken.Goodman@ncleg.net, Charles.Graham@ncleg.net, Susi.Hamilton@ncleg.net, Craig.Horn@ncleg.net, Chuck.McGrady@ncleg.net, Frank.McGuirt@ncleg.net, Rodney.Moore@ncleg.net, Tom.Murry@ncleg.net, Phil.Shepard@ncleg.net, John.Torbett@ncleg.net

Find Your Representatives: NC STATE House & Senate: http://www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- HB 650 Yesterday, HB 650 received its second hearing in the NC House Judiciary C Committee, with supporters and opponents falling along straight party lines.

Stalled by persistent questioning by anti-gun Democrats Joe Hackney (D- Chatham, Moore, Orange, GRNC 0-star), Verla Insko (D-Orange, 0-star), Jennifer Weiss (D-Wake, 0-star) and Pricey Harrison (D-Guilford, 0-star), the bill did not yet get a vote. Committee chairman Jonathan Rhyne (R-Lincoln, ****) promised a vote during the next committee meeting on Wednesday, June 1.

Amendments to the bill are flying fast and furious as various groups make requests of sponsors Mark Hilton, (R-Catawba, ****), Stephen LaRoque (R- Greene, Lenoir, Wayne, ****), George Cleveland (R-Onslow, ****) and Kelly Hastings (R- Cleveland, Gaston, ****).

In its present form, some reductions in penalties for carriage on educational property have been eliminated, but provisions remain for keeping firearms in locked compartments, as well as requirements for prosecutors to prove that the gun was “willfully and intentionally” carried onto education property.

As an example of the time-delaying tactics used against HB 650 by the left, during discussion of a section to bring NC gun laws into compliance with federal law, Insko blurted out: “I don’t know what this means. Does this mean I can have anthrax in North Carolina?”

Meanwhile, Hackney harped on firearms within cars on private property (to which Hilton responded that private property rights do not reach into the vehicle of the gun owner); while Weiss continued to press on the provision permitting “firearm” purchases in non-contiguous states, focusing on how it might allow handgun purchasers to bypass NC law even after it was pointed out to her that interstate handgun purchases are impossible because they are prohibited by federal law.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: Contact

CONTACT ALL MEMBERS of the NC House Judiciary C Committee. Thank Republicans for their support, but remind them you expect an expeditious vote on HB 650 to allow the bill to make the looming June 9 “crossover deadline.” Tell Democrats to stop stalling and bring the bill to the vote it deserves.

CONTACT YOUR NC HOUSE REP: In anticipation of the imminent vote on HB 650 before the full chamber of the NC House, tell your house rep to support HB 650 WITHOUT WEAKENING AMENDMENTS. To find your house rep, go to: http://www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm

Contact These Legislators

Email these legislators:

Convenience copy and paste lists

REPUBLICANS:

Tim.Moore@ncleg.net, Johnathan.Rhyne@ncleg.net, Rayne.Brown@ncleg.net,
George.Cleveland@ncleg.net, Jimmy.Dixon@ncleg.net, Jonathan.Jordan@ncleg.net

DELIVER THIS MESSAGE

Dear Representative:

Thank you for your support of HB 650, “Amend Various Gun Laws.” It is vital that you continue to press this forward to meet the looming June 9 crossover deadline. This is a very important bill in its present form and one that you must carry forward to the goal line.

Keep up the good work and never let up the pressure. Don’t believe the lies and rigged polls from the opponents of freedom. I will be following the progress of this bill with great interest through the alerts of Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A Concerned North Carolina Voter

DEMOCRATSDEMOCRATS:

Joe.Hackney@ncleg.net, Pricey.Harrison@ncleg.net, Verla.Insko@ncleg.net, Bert.Jones@ncleg.net, Annie.Mobley@ncleg.net, Jennifer.Weiss@ncleg.net

DELIVER THIS MESSAGE

Dear Representative:

It is vital to the safety and freedom of North Carolinians that you quit stalling and bring HB 650, “Amend Various Gun Laws” to a vote in House Judiciary Sub Committee C. I urge your SUPPORT of this important bill. Basically I am asking you to get out of the way of freedom.

I will be following the progress of this bill with great interest through the alerts of Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A Concerned North Carolina Voter

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- The ATF has reopened comments on their plan to register multiple sales of some (that’s how it always starts) rifles.

This serious threat from the ATF needs to be stopped. Back in January your comments were invaluable at preventing the “emergency designation” but the Mayors Against Illegal Guns (MAIG) reflector provided over 9,000 comments later in the comment period.

This time, you the gun owner must do better.

Please log comments and spread the word to all your colleagues to do the same. There is no doubt that BATFE is a determined crew. We must be more determined.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

Contact the BATFE and log your comments: oira_submission@omb.eop.gov
Contact your own congressional representative by going to: http://www.house.gov/representatives/#state_ne

DELIVER THIS MESSAGE

[Insert Salutation]I am writing to oppose the Information collection action to register multiple sales of certain rifles with BATFE from the 04/29/2011 Federal Register: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2011-04-29/pdf/2011-10355.pdf

This information collection is both illegal and unnecessary.

* The action proposed is outside the statutory grant of authority to record information about multiple sales of firearms. Title 18 U.S.C. 923(g)(3)(A) specifically grants the authority to collect multiple sale information on handguns and revolvers. Other firearms are excluded and there is no implied authority to extend this reporting requirement to rifles or any other type of firearm.

* Analysis of the number of firearms seized shows that Mexico is being primarily supplied with firearms by South American countries, NOT the United States. In fact, a STRATFOR report indicates that fully 90% of of the firearms traced in Mexico are NOT coming from the United States, contrary to assertions in the mainstream media: http://wwwprod-1756134246.us-west-1.elb.amazonaws.com/index.php?q=weekly/20110209-mexicos-gun-supply-and-90-percent-myth.
Additionally, Wikileaks cables have shown the US Government is at least partially responsible for supplying Mexico from the United States: http://narcosphere.narconews.com/notebook/bill-conroy/2011/02/pentagon-fingered-source-narco-firepower-mexico. These firearms are NOT from the US commercial market.

* Source documents of the BATFE uncovered by US Senator Grassley and US Representative Issa show that BATFE has been complicit in supplying Mexican Narco-terrorist forces with firearms: http://www.scribd.com/doc/49971654/2011-03-03-CEG-to-DOJ-ATF.

* FFL holders are already required by law to respond to BATFE requests for information on firearms distribution pursuant to criminal investigations: Title 18 U.S.C. 923(g)(7).

* The regulation contains no provision for the destruction of information collected, which establishes a nationwide registry of “certain types of firearms” as proposed. Because of this the regulation, as proposed, is illegal under Title 18 U.S.C. 926(a). “No such rule or regulation” may require that records required to be maintained under this chapter or any portion of the contents of such records, be recorded at or transferred to a facility owned, managed, or controlled by the United States or any State or any political subdivision thereof, nor that any system of registration of firearms, firearms owners, or firearms transactions or disposition be established.

There is a grave potential for this regulation to unduly burden citizens who are collectors or must obtain purchase permits at the local or state level to possess firearms. The proposed regulation does not say what the agency intends to do with the information but ostensibly it would be for criminal investigations. Subjecting law abiding gun owners to this type of investigation under the guise of “information collection” is an overt attempt to prevent them from exercising their 2nd Amendment rights to purchase and own firearms.

This regulatory action should not be approved.

Sincerely,

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Represent GRNC at the Next Winston/Salem Gun Show

GRNC needs volunteers to host the tables at the next Winston/Salem Gun Show to be held the weekend of May 28 & 29 in the Education Building at the LJVM Coliseum.

This is an essential outreach to promote GRNC. It’s also an opportunity to connect with fellow pro-freedom citizens! Volunteer some time, it is a rewarding experience.

Please set aside a couple of hours to help. If you have an outgoing and articulate friend whom you would like to introduce to gun rights activism please invite her or him to work with us show weekend whether or not that person is a current member.

Volunteer: Volunteers please call or text Robert Speight at 336-687-9101.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- On Thursday, SB 560, “Sport Shooting Range Protection” passed out of the Senate Judiciary II Committee thanks largely to the efforts of sponsor Sen. Andrew Brock (R- Davie, Rowan, GRNC ****) and committee chairman Sen. Buck Newton (R- Nash, Wilson, ****), both of whom deserve an immediate e-mail of thanks.

SB 560 is intended to close loopholes in our existing range protection law by extending the existing “grandfather” protection against noise and environmental complaints to ranges forced to relocate due to rezoning, annexation, condemnation or development.

A SMALL DARK CLOUD
After complaints that a range relocating to a different county might supersede existing ordinances, committee members of both parties, unfortunately, offered an amendment under which ranges which relocate to different counties may only do so if they meet the requirements of the new county. GRNC will work to remove the restriction. It should be noted that Sen. Newton argued vehemently against the amendment as just another anti-gun action.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED
Contact: Things are moving fast in this session of the legislature. SB 560 could get a vote as early as TUESDAY. Immediately do the following two things:

CONTACT YOUR NC STATE SENATOR: Let them know they must vote for SB 560. To find who represents you, go to: http://www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm. Deliver the message below.

THANK SENS. BROCK AND NEWTON: These gents are fighting for your rights. Let them know you appreciate it by contact them at: Andrew.Brock@ncleg.net, Buck.Newton@ncleg.net

DELIVER THIS MESSAGE TO YOUR SENATOR

Dear Senator ____________:

I am writing to express my support for SB 560, “Sport Shooting Range Protection.” Encroaching development is quickly eliminating ranges for sport shooters. It is vital and fair that this bill be enacted to protect existing ranges.

I urge you to vote for SB 560 and use all of your influence to help pass this important bill. I will be following the progress of SB 560 through the alerts of Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A Concerned North Carolina Voter

Find Your Representatives

• NC STATE House & Senate: www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm
• FEDERAL Congressman: www.house.gov/writerep/
• FEDERAL Senators: www.senate.gov/

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- HB 650 On Wednesday, the NC House Judiciary C Committee took on House Bill 650, “Amend Various Gun Laws.”

Thanks to the efforts of Sponsors Mark Hilton (R-Catawba, GRNC ****), Steven LaRoque (R-Greene, Lenoir, Wayne, ****), George Cleveland (R- Onslow, ****) and Kelly Hastings (R- Cleveland, Gaston, ****), plus the leadership of Rules Chairman Tim Moore (R- Cleveland, ****) and Speaker Thom Tillis (R-Meckleburg, ****), the bill is likely to receive a committee vote next Wednesday.

Gun rights supporters should immediately e-mail these courageous legislators with thanks.

HB 650 is a huge and aggressive bill, meaning it will be difficult to pass. But if passed, it will go far toward reversing the creeping encroachment on gun owners’ rights perpetuated in previous sessions of the legislature, including (but not limited to):

• Castle Doctrine (yet another vehicle for popular Castle Doctrine is now moving);
• Reducing penalties for carrying firearms on “educational property,” including a protection against accidentally becoming a criminal by requiring that offenders “knowingly” brought the gun onto educational property;
• Enabling concealed carry at events for which admission is charged;
• Reducing penalties for a host of minor (often inadvertent) gun violations;
• Adding protections for gun owners whose guns are confiscated pursuant to domestic protective orders;
• Improves concealed handgun reciprocity to straight recognition of out-of-state permits;
• Removes provisions for concealed handgun applicants under which sheriffs are conducting intrusive investigations of medical history; and
• Enabling employees to keep guns in locked vehicles at places of employment.

FIRST COMMITTEE FIGHT
As Chairman Moore brought up the bill, Rep. Hilton pointed out that it simply attempted to mirror and conform with federal law. Opposition was brought by the usual leftists, including Joe Hackney (D- Chatham, Moore, Orange, GRNC 0-star), Verla Insko (D-Orange, 0-star) and Jennifer Weiss (D-Wake, 0-star). Reps. Hilton, Cleveland, Hastings and Jonathan Jordan (R- Ashe, Watauga, ****) did an outstanding job of defending it. Thanks also go to Chairman Moore for allowing GRNC president Paul Valone to dispel numerous misconceptions regarding state and federal gun laws.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

Contact

E-MAIL THANKS to Reps. Hilton, Tillis, Moore, Hastings, LaRoque and Cleveland using the following e-mail addresses: Mark.Hilton@ncleg.net; Thom.Tillis@ncleg.net; Tim.Moore@ncleg.net; Kelly.Hastings@ncleg.net; Stephen.LaRoque@ncleg.net; George.Cleveland@ncleg.net

CONTACT JUDICIARY THE C COMMITTEE MEMBERS as listed below and urge them to support HB 650, pointing out that they MUST attend the meeting on Wednesday to vote for the bill. Johnathan Rhyne, Jr. – 919-733-5782, Johnathan.Rhyne@ncleg.net; Rayne Brown – 919-715-0873, Rayne.Brown@ncleg.net; Jimmy Dixon – 919-715-3021, Jimmy.Dixon@ncleg.net; Bert Jones – 919-733-5779, Bert.Jones@ncleg.net; Jonathan C. Jordan – 919-733-7727, Jonathan.Jordan@ncleg.net

SEND US YOUR STORIES: By reducing the number of “no carry” zones, including accidentally carrying firearms onto “educational property” (including places that are not even campuses), the bill seeks to allow law-abiding gun owners to remain law abiding. To support the bill, please send examples of when you accidentally violated gun laws despite your best efforts. All stories will be de-identified before distribution. Send them directly to Paul Valone at President@GRNC.org

DELIVER THIS MESSAGE

Dear Representative:

I am writing to express my support for HB 650, “Amend Various Gun Laws.” Your support is instrumental in passing the many important measures in this sweeping bill. In order to achieve this, it is vital that you attend the Judiciary Sub Committee C meeting on Wednesday and give your full support to HB 650.

I will be eagerly awaiting a positive outcome for this bill Wednesday and will be tracking its progress through the alerts of Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A Concerned North Carolina Voter

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- The fate of pro-gun bills such as HB 111, the parks and restaurants bill, and the Castle Doctrine will be discussed this week by NC Senate leadership.

As you have likely heard, many polls are being crafted to misrepresent public opinion on CCW in parks and restaurants.

So it is vital that they hear from you that this is a priority. If HB 111 is to pass before intended adjournment on July 1, they must begin moving it now. See the important points that you need to make below:

Permit-Holders Proven Responsible
According to the NC State Bureau of Investigation, 336,743 concealed handgun permits have been approved, yet only 1007 (0.29% — less than 1/3 of a single percent) have been revoked for any reason, with most revocations unrelated to guns.

Although the SBI doesn’t track reasons for revocation, evidence from elsewhere suggests the vast majority of revocations are for reasons unrelated to guns. In Florida, for example, where 1,935,222 permits were issued, only 168 (.009%) were revoked due to misuse of firearms.

As in the 37 other states with concealed handgun laws, North Carolina permit-holders have a 16 year track record of proving themselves sane, sober and law-abiding.

“Wild west” predictions of “shootings at traffic lights” by the law’s opponents have proven false in North Carolina as in all of the 37 states which have adopted such laws.

Why Parks?
State parks: Although violent crime overall has dropped by 27.7% since inception of concealed carry, ostensibly “gun free” state parks have not benefited from the deterrence effect of the law, experiencing only an estimated drop of 8.93%, including an estimated 72 violent crimes and 1278 property crimes.

Municipal parks: Violent crime rates for municipal parks are not tracked by the State Bureau of Investigation, but urban settings and frequent news reports of rapes, murders and assaults suggests a much higher rate and number of violent crimes, perhaps numbering in the thousands.

Deterrence effect: Controlled, multi-variate studies of concealed handgun permit laws around the country show they deter murder, rape and aggravated assault.

Net benefit: Beyond allowing joggers, hikers and families enjoying North Carolina’s state and municipal parks to protect themselves against violent predators, HB 111 is likely to create a drop in crime by deterring criminals who search for unarmed victims.

Why Restaurants?
Restaurant carry is not untested: Even The New York Times admits that at least 39 states (by some counts, 40 states) permit concealed carry in restaurants.

Even a simple buffet restaurant is off limits to concealed carry if it has an on-premises alcohol consumption permit. When concealed handgun permit-holders go to such restaurants, they and their families are unprotected not only there but also in surrounding neighborhoods and parking lots.

Nothing would change the current prohibition on consuming alcohol while carrying concealed firearms contained in § 14-415.11 (c).

Restaurant owners would still have the option of posting against firearms under § 14-415.11 (c).

The North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association (NCRLA) has said that it does not oppose the bill.

GRNC strongly advises you to oppose the “Guice Amendment,” made in the House, under which municipalities could ban firearms in recreational facilities. Those facilities are precisely where permit-holders most need to protect family members.

Both Virginia (4/10) and Tennessee (6/10) have adopted restaurant carry without reported problems.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

Contact

Contact the members of the Senate Judiciary II Committee (listed following the message).
Deliver this message:

Dear Senate Judiciary II Committee Member:

I am writing you to let you know that HB 111, “Handgun Permit Valid in Parks & Restaurants,” is a priority. In order to meet your intended adjournment of July 1 – as has been stated as a goal – it is vital that you communicate to your leadership to get HB 111 moving now. Another top priority is the long awaited Castle Doctrine. Remember, there are former legislators who are now at home rather than in Raleigh for opposing this important measure. Recently anti-gunners in the media and academia have concocted skewed polls to scare you into inaction on these important matters. Don’t be fooled. Also do not buy the misinformation campaign on the issues.

Permit holders have proven to be sane, sober and law abiding over the last 16 years. Less than one-third of one percent of permits has been revoked for any reason – mostly non-gun related. Many of the less reasonable in society crowed that there would be “wild west” scenarios leading to shootouts at every minor clash, such as fender benders. That simply has not happened. It is important that HB 111 pass for a number of reasons. The 27.7% drop in violent crime since the inception of the concealed carry law has not been reflected in the gun free zones of state parks, which have only seen a decrease of 8.93%. The correlation between arming those who would otherwise be victims and drops in crime is clear. In restaurant carry – despite outright falsehoods being reported – nothing would change in relation to disallowing those consuming alcohol from being armed, however; those not imbibing would have the option of armed self protection within the restaurant and even more importantly, the highly vulnerable parking lots outside. It is important to note that despite outside pressure, the North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association (NCRLA) does not oppose HB 111.

I urge you support and pass this important bill. I will be monitoring the progress of HB 111 and your actions on this matter through the alerts of Grass Roots North Carolina.

Sincerely,

A Concerned North Carolina Voter

Contact these legislators:

COPY & PASTE CONVENIENCE LIST
(pick the method that works for your email program)

(with commas)

Austin.Allran@ncleg.net, Warren.Daniel@ncleg.net, Buck.Newton@ncleg.net, Doug.Berger@ncleg.net,
Stan.Bingham@ncleg.net, Dan.Blue@ncleg.net, Debbie.Clary@ncleg.net, Jim.Davis@ncleg.net,
Don.East@ncleg.net, James.Forrester@ncleg.net, Fletcher.Hartsell@ncleg.net, Edward.Jones@ncleg.net,
Tommy.Tucker@ncleg.net, Don.Vaughan@ncleg.net, Harris.Blake@ncleg.net, Charlie.Dannelly@ncleg.net,
Floyd.McKissick@ncleg.net

(with semi-colons)

Austin.Allran@ncleg.net; Warren.Daniel@ncleg.net; Buck.Newton@ncleg.net; Doug.Berger@ncleg.net;
Stan.Bingham@ncleg.net; Dan.Blue@ncleg.net; Debbie.Clary@ncleg.net; Jim.Davis@ncleg.net;
Don.East@ncleg.net; James.Forrester@ncleg.net; Fletcher.Hartsell@ncleg.net; Edward.Jones@ncleg.net;
Tommy.Tucker@ncleg.net; Don.Vaughan@ncleg.net; Harris.Blake@ncleg.net; Charlie.Dannelly@ncleg.net;
Floyd.McKissick@ncleg.net

(space delimited)

Austin.Allran@ncleg.net Warren.Daniel@ncleg.net Buck.Newton@ncleg.net Doug.Berger@ncleg.net
Stan.Bingham@ncleg.net Dan.Blue@ncleg.net Debbie.Clary@ncleg.net Jim.Davis@ncleg.net
Don.East@ncleg.net James.Forrester@ncleg.net Fletcher.Hartsell@ncleg.net Edward.Jones@ncleg.net
Tommy.Tucker@ncleg.net Don.Vaughan@ncleg.net Harris.Blake@ncleg.net Charlie.Dannelly@ncleg.net
Floyd.McKissick@ncleg.net

Full Contact Info

Senator Austin M. Allran
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 625
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 733-5876
Austin.Allran@ncleg.net

Senator Warren Daniel
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 411
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 715-7823
Warren.Daniel@ncleg.net

Senator E. S. (Buck) Newton
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 410
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 715-3030
Buck.Newton@ncleg.net

Senator Doug Berger
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 516
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 715-8363
Doug.Berger@ncleg.net

Senator Stan Bingham
16 W. Jones Street, Room 2117
Raleigh, NC 27601-2808
(919) 733-5665
Stan.Bingham@ncleg.net

Senator Dan Blue
16 W. Jones Street, Room 1117
Raleigh, NC 27601-2808
(919) 733-5752
Dan.Blue@ncleg.net

Senator Debbie A. Clary
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 314
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 715-3038
Debbie.Clary@ncleg.net

Senator Jim Davis
16 W. Jones Street, Room 2111
Raleigh, NC 27601-2808
(919) 733-5875
Jim.Davis@ncleg.net

Senator Don East
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 522
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 733-5743
Don.East@ncleg.net

Senator James Forrester
16 W. Jones Street, Room 1028
Raleigh, NC 27601-2808
(919) 715-3050
James.Forrester@ncleg.net

Senator Fletcher L. Hartsell, Jr.
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 300-C
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 733-7223
Fletcher.Hartsell@ncleg.net

Senator Ed Jones
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 518
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 715-3032
Edward.Jones@ncleg.net

Senator Tommy Tucker
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 311
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 733-7659
Tommy.Tucker@ncleg.net

Senator Don Vaughan
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 515
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 733-5856
Don.Vaughan@ncleg.net

Senator Harris Blake
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 408
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 733-4809
Harris.Blake@ncleg.net

Senator Charlie Smith Dannelly
16 W. Jones Street, Room 1127
Raleigh, NC 27601-2808
(919) 733-5955
Charlie.Dannelly@ncleg.net

Senator Floyd B. McKissick, Jr.
300 N. Salisbury Street, Room 520
Raleigh, NC 27603-5925
(919) 733-4599
Floyd.McKissick@ncleg.net

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Elon University Skews Poll On Concealed Handguns

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- A poll released last week by Elon University* purports to show little public support for expanding North Carolina’s existing concealed handgun law into parks and restaurants, as proposed under House Bill 111.

However, the misleading and inaccurate phrasing of poll questions suggests that the researchers either haven’t read HB 111, or are woefully ignorant of North Carolina gun laws.

INACCURATELY PHRASED QUESTIONS:

“[Do you agree/disagree with] permitting people to carry handguns in restaurants and bars.”

Facts:

• No pending bill would allow “people” - meaning anyone – to carry handguns in restaurants and bars. Rather, HB-111 is strictly limited to allowing concealed handgun permit holders to do so.
• Individuals covered by HB 111 have been verified by their sheriff as law-abiding citizens who have proven they are trained in the law and proficient with their weapons.
• These people have passed criminal background checks and had their fingerprints cleared by the FBI.
• The sheriff has verified they are not alcoholics or substance abusers, and in the case of veterans, were honorably discharged.
• This class of people - who number approximately 2% of North Carolinians - have proven, over the past 16 years, to be responsible, prudent, safe, and overwhelming law-abiding.
• A similar question skewed results on “people” carrying concealed handguns in parks when, in reality, the parks provision too would apply only to concealed handgun permit-holders.

OMMITTED INFORMATION

* The question on restaurants omits at least two major qualifying conditions: That those carrying handguns are prohibited from consuming any alcohol, and that individual restaurants have the ability to ban the carry of handguns on their premises.

SAMPLING BIAS

* Although the Elon poll found that 42.4% of respondents owned firearms, earlier polling of North Carolina residents found a far higher gun ownership rate of 56%,** suggesting a sampling bias against lawful gun ownership.

1. * John R. Lott, Jr. More Guns, Less Crime 3rd Edition. Chicago, The University of Chicago Press, 2010.
2. ** Elon University poll available at: http://www.elon.edu/docs/e-web/elonpoll/041811_PollMethodology.pdf

About: Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Pretending that it was any of their business, the Raleigh City Council – reaffirming their leftist credentials – have publicly come out in opposition to HB 111, which would protect your legal right to self defense in restaurants and parks.

In fact they proudly put the following release on the city website… (in case it didn’t register, they are spending your tax dollars, to lobby against your rights) at www.raleighnc.gov/home/content/PubAffairs/Articles/ConcealedHandgunBill.html :

City Council Opposes Concealed Handgun Bill
“The Raleigh City Council on April 19 voted 7-0 to approve a resolution opposing provisions of a concealed handgun bill before the North Carolina General Assembly.

“The proposed legislation would allow people with concealed permits to carry their handguns into public parks and restaurants that serve alcohol. The bill has been approved by the House and is now in the Senate.

“For more information, contact City Attorney Thomas McCormick (Tom.McCormick@raleighnc.gov) at 919-831-6560.”

Well, we suggest that you follow the last piece of advice in their note and contact the city attorney and advise him that his clients should not deprive you of your right of self protection. In fact, we are going to provide you with the contact info for the entire city council, so you may tell them yourselves.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

Contact

The following contact information can be found at the city council’s website: www.raleighnc.gov/government/content/LandGovernment/Articles/CityCouncil.html

Also, they conveniently provide an email address that will email the entire City Council at citycouncilors@raleighnc.gov

City Council Members

• Mayor: Charles Meeker | email: charles.meeker@raleighnc.gov
• District A: Nancy McFarlane | email: nancy.mcfarlane@raleighnc.gov
• District B: John Odom | email: john.odom@raleighnc.gov
• District C: Eugene Weeks | email: eugene.weeks@raleighnc.gov
• District D: Thomas Crowder | email: thomas.crowder@raleighnc.gov
• District E: Bonner Gaylord | email: bonner.gaylord@raleighnc.gov
• At-Large: Mary-Ann Baldwin (Mayor Pro Tempore) | email: mary-ann.baldwin@raleighnc.gov
• At-Large: Russ Stephenson | email: russ.stephenson@raleighnc.gov

ACTION: Deliver This Message

Dear City Council:

Why are you spending the people’s money on depriving them of their right of self protection? By opposing House Bill 111, that is what you are doing. Are you prepared to guarantee everyone’s safety in restaurants and parks? What will you say when your promises prove hollow?

I urge you to drop your opposition to HB 111. I will be following the progress of this matter through Grass Roots North Carolina and will remember them THIS FALL at the city council elections.

Sincerely,

A Concerned Voter

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- We are in the final push for HB 111, but don’t be complacent. The enemies of your freedom and safety are hard at work making certain that your ability to protect yourself and family remains limited.

Rumors are rife that their tricks to convince the General Assembly that you are not really behind this move may be taking hold. The result of this will be amendments that will render this bill not much more effective than the current law.

We know that this bill is the desire of North Carolinians because we have heard from them for years on this matter. It is consistently one of the top requests. This is within your grasp, don’t let it slip away now.

A quick refresher:
HB 111, “Concealed Handgun Permit Valid in Parks and Restaurants,” will restore your right to carry your legally concealed weapon in parks and in restaurants where alcohol is served. You will still be prohibited from consuming alcohol yourself while carrying, but you will thus be allowed the luxury of self protection there.

New suggested talking points:

• NC concealed carry has reduced violent crime: Since 1995, when our concealed carry law passed, the rate of overall NC crime has dropped by 27.7%, while the rate of violent crime dropped by a whopping 37.1%. This mirrors the study by John Lott and David Mustard which found that concealed handgun laws deter murder, rape, and aggravated assault.
• State parks have not seen the same drop: An extrapolation of partial data for the same years estimates only an 8.9% drop in crime within state parks. Although crime in municipal parks is not tracked, news accounts and the urban location of many suggest that crime is actually increasing in these “victim disarmament zones.” HB 111 will not only benefit permit-holders, it will deter violent crime.
• NC permit-holders are overwhelmingly responsible: Of 336,743 concealed handgun permits approved since 1995, only 1007 have been revoked for any reason (that’s less than a third of one percent, or 0.29%). Although the SBI doesn’t keep reasons for revocation, other states’ experience suggests that few of those revocations are for misuse of firearms.

Action: IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

Contact

• Use our auto-emailer to send the message detailed below: www.grnc.us/alerts/email3_28_11a.htm
• Call your own representative in the NC House. Tell him or her that you are paying attention and that you want them to pass HB 111 with NO WEAKENING amendments. You may find your representative here: www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm

Deliver This Message

Honorable Members of the NC House:

There are troubling rumors circulating that weakening amendments to HB 111, “Concealed Handgun Permit Valid in Parks and Restaurants,” will be allowed to take root and water down a very good bill. Do NOT under any circumstance allow this. I understand that dirty tricks by anti-gunners are afoot to make legislators doubt the pro-gun and pro-self-defense nature of North Carolinians. Don’t believe them.

For sixteen years, North Carolina concealed handgun permit-holders have proven themselves sane, sober and law-abiding. Their overwhelming responsibility is demonstrated by the fact that permit revocations run mere tenths of a single percent.

Because the ability of lawful North Carolinians to protect themselves and their families in restaurants and parks is long overdue, I STRONGLY URGE YOU TO SUPPORT HOUSE BILL 111 by all means substantive and procedural, and to pass the bill WITHOUT WEAKENDING AMENDMENTS. Under the bill, restaurants would still be able to post against firearms, and nothing would change the current prohibition on permit-holders consuming alcohol while carrying firearms.

Make no mistake about this message: NO weakening amendment will be acceptable. I expect you to pass HB 111 as it is with NO weakening amendments.

I will monitor actions on HB 111 via Grass Roots North Carolina legislative alerts.

Respectfully,

• You may find your NC STATE representative by going here: www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm
• You may write your FEDERAL congressman by going here: www.house.gov/writerep/
• You may write your FEDERAL senators by going here: www.senate.gov/

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Asheville Gun Show – GRNC is still in need of volunteers to host the tables at the next gun show in Asheville to be held the weekend of March 26th & 27th.

It will be held at the Western NC Ag Center at I-26 @ Exit 40 (across from the Airport), 1301 Fanning Bridge Road, Fletcher, NC: www.wncagcenter.org

www.mkshows.com/cgi-bin/show_display.asp?12

Let’s make an impressive showing as we break into this fertile ground. Volunteer some time, it is a rewarding experience.

Please set aside a couple of hours that weekend to help. If you have an articulate friend whom you would like to introduce to gun rights activism please invite her or him to work with us show weekend whether or not that person is a current member.

Volunteer
Volunteers please contact John Hammond at johndhammond@msn.com or at phone number 828-699-3117.

Please respond directly to John Hammond by clicking on the email link. This will assure that your note will not be delayed or lost in the shuffle.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Representative MARK HILTON will be introducing HB 390 whose long title gives a good explanation of its purpose: an act to repeal the state law that requires a person to obtain a license or permit to purchase, sell, give away, receive, or otherwise transfer a pistol or crossbow.

Central to this – not to mention almost all pro-gun legislation in North Carolina over the last 16 years – is GRNC.

Knowing that the National Instant Check System (NICS) has made these permits both redundant and archaic. Not to mention the fact that sheriffs have, for years, offered a variety of obstacles to purchase permit applications.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: Thank the sponsors listed below:

Sponsors

Michael H. Wray
919-733-5662
Michael.Wray@ncleg.net

Mark K. Hilton
919-733-5988
Mark.Hilton@ncleg.net

George G. Cleveland
919-715-6707
George.Cleveland@ncleg.net

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- HB 111 – Parks & Restaurants; In a bruising battle fought by both legislators and GRNC’s Legislative Action Team, HB 111, “Handgun Permit Valid in Parks & Restaurants” fought its way out of the NC House Judiciary A Subcommittee and now heads for a floor vote as early as tomorrow.

Both strengthening and weakening changes were made to the bill.

REP. HILTON’S SUBSTITUTE
Working with GRNC, bill sponsors Mark Hilton (R-Catawba, ****), Jeff Barnhart (R-Cabarrus, ****) and Fred Steen (R-Rowan, ****) produced an enhanced version of HB 111 which included concealed carry not only in municipal parks, but in state parks as well. The substitute was quickly adopted as the working vehicle for the bill.

COMMITTEE FIGHT
Anti-gun Reps. Deborah Ross (D-Wake, GRNC 0-star), Bill Faison (D-Durham, **), and Larry Hall (D-Durham, 0-star) tried to tie up the bill with repeated questioning and with contradictory and shifting amendments. Ross demanded that, in restaurants, servers ask diners ordering alcohol whether they are carrying firearms. In a confusing array of amendments to amendments, ultimately the committee passed an amendment to the bill under which restaurants MAY but are not REQUIRED to ask those ordering alcohol of their status. As noted below, GRNC will vociferously oppose even this weakened language on the House floor.

An equally confusing series of amendments was offered by Faison, who tried to remove both municipal and state parks from the bill. After Hilton, Barnhart and Steen opposed Faison’s proposals, they ultimately failed in an 8-5 vote.

In an effort to tie up the bill, Faison repeatedly dogged bill sponsors with questions about why permit-holders need to protect their families in restaurants, demanding unavailable crime statistics and complaining “Where’s the problem?” Hall painted fanciful pictures of shootouts between patrons in restaurants, and demanded exclusion of parks for the sake of “youth groups,” saying he didn’t want permit-holders “further endangering” kids.

But leading the charge to subvert gun owners’ ability to protect themselves was Ross, who claimed support for her weakening amendment from the Restaurant Association (whose lobbyist then stood to oppose the Ross amendment), and whined that concealed carry is specifically exempted from the right to keep and bear arms enumerated in the North Carolina Constitution.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED
HB 111 could head to the House floor as early as tomorrow, and almost certainly by next week. Immediate take the following actions:

• E-MAIL ALL MEMBERS OF THE NC HOUSE: Use GRNC’s automated e-mail to send a customizable message by going to: http://grnc.org/alerts/email3_9_11.htm and delivering the message that members should not only pass HB 11, but should remove the Ross amendment.
• CALL YOUR HOUSE REP: Tell he or she to support HB 111 with no further weakening amendments. You can identify your representative to the NC House by going to: http://www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm
• SHUT DOWN ROSS, FAISON AND HALL: Deliver a clear message that you will not tolerate meddling with gun rights legislation by calling the offices of Reps. Ross 919-733-5773, Faison 919-715-3019 and Hall 919-733-5872 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on Thursday, March 10. If you happen to miss that time period, call them whenever you can.

Deliver This Message —————

Honorable Members of the NC House:

For sixteen years, North Carolina concealed handgun permit-holders have proven themselves sane, sober and law-abiding. Their overwhelming responsibility is demonstrated by the fact that permit revocations run mere tenths of a single percent.

Because the ability of lawful North Carolinians to protect themselves and their families in restaurants and parks is long overdue, I STRONGLY URGE YOU TO SUPPORT HOUSE BILL 111: “Concealed Handgun Permit Valid in Parks and Restaurants” by all means substantive and procedural, and to pass the bill WITHOUT WEAKENDING AMENDMENTS. Under the bill, restaurants would still be able to post against firearms, and nothing would change the current prohibition on permit-holders consuming alcohol while carrying firearms.

I also expect you to support removing Representative Deborah Ross’ amendment which would require permit-holders to disclose whether they are carrying firearms to restaurant servers, patrons, and potentially criminals. Under the Ross amendment, if a permit-holder orders an alcoholic beverage for someone else – even though the permit holder consumes no alcohol – he or she could be required to make that tactically unsound and potentially dangerous disclosure. If not removed, the Ross amendment will eventually cost lives.

I will monitor actions on HB 111 via Grass Roots North Carolina legislative alerts.

Respectfully,

—————

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- BEHOLD: ‘The STAM SCAM’ DOES REPUBLICAN HOUSE MAJORITY LEADER THINK YOU’RE STUPID?

To paraphrase a colloquialism, Republican House Majority Leader Paul Stam is trying to feed you manure by calling it a sandwich.

As you recall, Stam led the attack against Castle Doctrine bill HB 74 in its House Judiciary subcommittee hearing. In relentless questioning apparently intended to tie up the bill, he painted scenarios of drug dealers shooting it out and using Castle Doctrine as a legal defense (this was rebutted by committee counsel), likening the bill to “expedited execution.” Using phrases like “dead people on the floor” and “shoot first and ask questions later,” Stam eventually produced handwritten language he claimed would accomplish “95%” of what bill supporters want.

Now the full proposal is out, and it is worthless!

Not only does it fail to offer the presumption of reasonable fear of death or great bodily injury for victims whose homes, vehicles or workplaces are forcibly and unlawfully entered, the defense offered victims does nothing. Says the legal counsel for the legislature: “The State currently has the burden of disproving the defense, so the new subsection wouldn’t change current law.”

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

• CALL AND E-MAIL MAJORITY LEADER ‘SKIP’ STAM AGAIN: Remind him that gun owners helped replace previous leadership over precisely this issue. Reach him at: Paul.Stam@ncleg.net and 919-733-2962. The message to deliver is below.
• E-MAIL SPEAKER THOM TILLIS AGAIN: Pro-gun Speaker Tillis (R-Mecklenburg, ****) supports Castle Doctrine, but needs POLITE AND CONSTRUCTIVE input to rein in Majority Leader Stam. At this point, gun owners from outside his district should e-mail only. Constituents should call. Reach Tillis at: Thom.Tillis@ncleg.net. The message to deliver is below.
• USE GRNC’s AUTOMATED EMAIL: Contact all members of the House Judiciary Committee by going to:  www.grnc.org/alerts/email2_25_11.htm to deliver a preset but customizable message. If you are unable to use the automated e-mail, copy-and-paste e-mail addresses for the Judiciary Committee are below the message for the committee.

Deliver These Messages

It is crucial to turn up the heat RIGHT NOW. If you e-mailed once, e-mail again. If you called once, call again. To reiterate: A light touch is all that is required for Speaker Tillis and members of the Judiciary Committee.

—————————————————

Representative Stam:

Do legislators think North Carolina gun rights supporters are stupid? Your proposal for HB 74 has all the appearances of a ruse designed to make North Carolinians think they are getting something to protect themselves against violent crime while, in reality, doing little or nothing at all.

Rest assured I will be monitoring your actions via Grass Roots North Carolina legislative alerts. Any vote for your proposal will be construed as anti-gun. Unless you want to put Republicans on the wrong side of a gun vote, as Representative Joe Kiser once did, I would suggest you shelve it and support HB 74 in its present version.

We didn’t put Republicans in power to undermine our rights. I strongly suggest you consider the fate of the last House Majority Leader.

Respectfully,

———————————————–

Dear Speaker Tillis:

I am alarmed by Majority Leader Paul Stam’s attack on Castle Doctrine bill HB 74. In the last election, Second Amendment voters supported new leadership because previous leaders worked to undermine gun rights. Indeed, gun owners were central to the transfer of power in both chambers of the General Assembly.

So imagine my surprise when a Republican and member of leadership began to attack efforts to bolster the ability of lawful North Carolinians to defend themselves against violent predators. Is this our reward? Representative Stam’s proposal for HB 74 is nothing but a ruse designed to make gun owners think they are getting something when, in fact, it does little or nothing.

I look forward to telling family, friends and co-workers how leaders in both the House and Senate passed legislation to bolster the rights of North Carolina gun owners.

Respectfully,

——————————————–

Honorable Members of the House Judiciary Committee:

I strongly urge you to support HB 74: “Castle Doctrine” in its present form. Absent a presumption of reasonable fear of death or great bodily injury for victims of forcible entries into homes, vehicles, and workplaces, the bill would be worthless.

Sadly, House Majority Leader Paul Stam seems to have forgotten that Second Amendment supporters were instrumental in bringing a pro-gun majority to the General Assembly. He not only voted against the bill in its subcommittee, but now intends to offer gun owners a shell designed to create the impression of an effective bill while actually offering little or nothing.

A nearly identical bill just passed Second Reading in the Senate, attracting bipartisan support. I strongly urge you to contact Representative Stam and ask him to shelve his Proposed Committee Substitute. I will be monitoring this bill via Grass Roots North Carolina legislative alerts.

Respectfully,

If you are unable to use the link for the automated e-mail to the full Judiciary Committee, copy and paste the e-mails below:

Leo.Daughtry@ncleg.net, Justin.Burr@ncleg.net, David.Guice@ncleg.net, Grey.Mills@ncleg.net, Tim.Moore@ncleg.net, Shirley.Randleman@ncleg.net, Johnathan.Rhyne@ncleg.net, Martha.Alexander@ncleg.net, Hugh.Blackwell@ncleg.net, John.Blust@ncleg.net, Alice.Bordsen@ncleg.net, Rayne.Brown@ncleg.net, Angela.Bryant@ncleg.net, Jim.Crawford@ncleg.net, Jimmy.Dixon@ncleg.net, John.Faircloth@ncleg.net, Bill.Faison@ncleg.net, Rick.Glazier@ncleg.net, Joe.Hackney@ncleg.net, Phillip.Haire@ncleg.net, Larry.Hall@ncleg.net, Pricey.Harrison@ncleg.net, Julia.Howard@ncleg.net, Dan.Ingle@ncleg.net, Verla.Insko@ncleg.net, Darren.Jackson@ncleg.net, Bert.Jones@ncleg.net, Jonathan.Jordan@ncleg.net, Ric.Killian@ncleg.net, Grier.Martin@ncleg.net, Chuck.McGrady@ncleg.net, Mickey.Michaux@ncleg.net, Annie.Mobley@ncleg.net, Gaston.Pridgen@ncleg.net, Deborah.Ross@ncleg.net, Paul.Stam@ncleg.net, Sarah.Stevens@ncleg.net, Jennifer.Weiss@ncleg.net

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

• Republican House Majority Leader attacks HB 74, portending battles to come
• Senate version passes 2nd Reading: 3rd Reading Monday

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Two Castle Doctrine bills are working their way through the NC legislature. Which bill might ultimately be enacted into law remains to be seen.

SB 34 has been much improved from its original weak version and today passed its 2nd Reading Senate by a vote of 33-17. Vote details for particular Senators will be published when they become available.

Generally (although not always), 3rd Reading is a formality. Both may be accomplished in a single day provided no member of the body objects.

Apparently, one of the perennial anti-gun members objected, delaying 3rd Reading until Monday.

AMBUSH IN THE HOUSE
HB 74, originally the stronger Castle Doctrine bill, met far tougher resistance in a House Judiciary subcommittee, however, as it was repeatedly attacked not only by anti-gun Democrats, but also by Republican House Majority Leader Paul “Skip” Stam (R-Wake, formerly GRNC ****).

In relentless questioning apparently intended to tie up the bill, painted scenarios of drug dealers shooting it out and using Castle Doctrine as a legal defense (this was rebutted by committee counsel), likening the bill to “expedited execution.” Using phrases like “dead people on the floor” and “shoot first and ask questions later,” Stam eventually produced handwritten language he claimed would accomplish “95%” of what bill supporters want, but which actually offered crime victims few protections beyond current law.

Equally obstructionist were Reps. Darren Jackson (D-Wake, 0-star), and Grier Martin (D-Wake, GRNC 0-star), both of whom repeatedly demanded impossible statistics on home invasions until both GRNC president Paul Valone and representatives of the Administrative Office of the Courts pointed out that such statistics are not kept.

Advocating passage of the bill were subcommittee chair Mark Hilton (R-Catawba, ****), stalwart George Cleveland (R-Onslow, ****), freshman Jonathan Jordan (R-Ashe, ****) and Shirley Randleman (R-Wilkes, ****). Hilton, Cleveland and Randleman are primary sponsors for HB 74.

The bill eventually passed in a 5-3 vote with Reps. Cleveland, Jordan, Hugh Blackwell (R-Burke, ****), Rayne Brown (R-Davidson, ****) and Ric Killian (R-Mecklenburg, ****) voting for it, and Stam, Jackson and Martin voting against it.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
HB 74 now heads for the full Judiciary Committee, where it will undoubtedly meet resistance not only from the same individuals but other anti-gun Democrats including Deborah Ross (D-Wake, 0-star), who chaired the committee which in the last session killed Castle Doctrine by denying it a hearing. Moreover, when the senate bill, SB 34, crosses to the House, it will also be referred to the same committee, portending tough battles for both bills.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

• CALL AND E-MAIL MAJORITY LEADER SKIP STAM: Remind him that gun owners helped replace previous leadership over precisely this issue. Reach him at: Paul.Stam@ncleg.net and 919-733-2962.  Note: If his office complains about the subcommittee hearing giving “no public notice,” remind them that ad hoc committees are not required to and rarely do. If he says his proposal is “better,” remind them that HB 74 mirrors every other state which has adopted Castle Doctrine.
• E-MAIL SPEAKER THOM TILLIS: Pro-gun Speaker Tillis (R-Mecklenburg, ****) supports Castle Doctrine, but needs POLITE AND CONSTRUCTIVE input to rein in Majority Leader Stam. At this point, gun owners from outside his district should e-mail only. Constituents should call. Reach Tillis at: Thom.Tillis@ncleg.net

In future alerts, you will be given contact information for House Judiciary members.

DELIVER THIS MESSAGE: Copy and paste, changing it as you prefer. Again: Tillis is on our side. PLEASE BE COURTEOUS.

——————————–

Dear Speaker Tillis:

It is with profound disappointment that I learned of Majority Leader Paul Stam’s attack on Castle Doctrine bill HB 74. After decades of opposition to Second Amendment interests in the legislature, the current session has been both exhilarating and encouraging. I urge you to continue that course.

I look forward to telling family, friends and co-workers how leaders in both the House and Senate passed legislation to bolster the rights of North Carolina gun owners.

Respectfully,

——————————–

• You may find your NC STATE representative by going here:www.grnc.org/contact_reps.htm
• You may write your FEDERAL congressman by going here: www.house.gov/writerep/
• You may write your FEDERAL senators by going here: www.senate.gov/

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org

Grass Roots North Carolina for Firearms Education

North Carolina --(Ammoland.com)- Johnston County commissioners have presented a revised version of their proposed anti-gun ordinance and have scheduled the next meeting for Tuesday, February 8 at 6:00 p.m.

While your input has produced some positive movement, they commissioners are still bent on punishing law-abiding citizens for the irresponsibility of a few.

One provision would make it unlawful to “utilize a firearm while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.” While this sounds innocuous and well-meaning, consider this: As presented, if you had a beer for lunch and then 4 hours later dispatched a rat on your 10 acre lot, you would be guilty of a crime.

The same would apply if you had just come out of having a wisdom tooth removed and had prescribed a controlled substance like, say, Tylenol with codeine.

Another provision would outlaw shooting after sunset. What if you want to practice night shooting on your 10 acre property? For self-defense, some people practice light-assisted shooting on a regular basis.

This is a mere sampling of provisions in this ordinance. The good news is, you can have your say.

That is, unless you want the Johnston County Board of Commissioners to believe they are your mothers. Perhaps the penalties for these “offenses” should include sending you to bed early without supper!

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED

Contact Commissioners

• Email AND call ALL Johnston County commissioners using this link: www.johnstonnc.com/mainpage.cfm?category_level_id=403&content_id=1837

• Attend the meeting on Feb. 8 at 6:00 p.m. Let’s do our best to pack the room at the Johnston County Courthouse Emergency Operations Center.

The Emergency Operations Center is located in the Johnston County Courthouse Law Enforcement Building located at 120 South Third Street in Smithfield. Parking is available in the parking lot located at the corner of Third Street and Johnston Street. Please enter the Courthouse Law Enforcement Building from the Third Street entrance and you will be directed to the Emergency Operations Center.

About:
Grass Roots North Carolina/Forum for Firearms Education is a non-profit, all volunteer organization devoted to educating the public about trends which abridge the freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and engaging in grass roots activism to preserve those freedoms. Formed in 1994 to conduct a highly successful rally for the Second Amendment, GRNC has gone on to conduct projects like “Remember in November: A Gun Owner’s Guide to Voting,” bringing concealed carry to North Carolina. Visit:www.grnc.org