Can't Resist, Must Fisk!

Today, in the Commercial Appeal, there's a story about guns that reports negatively about them.
[pause to let people catch their breath]

Yes, it's true, reporter Ryan Poe (the anti-Locker) gives us a report so one sided, you'd think absolutely nobody in the Memphis area thinks carrying a gun in a park is anything short of sheer lunacy. Here's the headline:

Tennessee gun bill could face both barrels at local level

First, we have quotes from that paragon of self-control, Janice Fullilove:

"You shouldn't be worried that if you step on someones toes that they'll pull out a gun and blow you away," said Memphis City Councilwoman Janis Fullilove. "Everyone has a right to bear arms, but come on... How far is too far?"

Newflash, sweetheart - people are already worried about being shot in Memphis. Toes or no toes, Memphis is a dangerous city. Has been for years, so why interfere with my ability to protect myself and my family?

"We have enough people out there whose behavior with guns is irresponsible without allowing handgun permit holders to carry in parks," she said.

There have been over 50 shootings in Memphis so far this year. How many of them have been from permit holders? Two? Granted, a permit isn't a magical talisman that prevents someone from being stupid, but it is an indicator of at least wanting to conform to the laws of the land.

The otherwise clear-thinking Shea Flinn supports banning guns from parks.

"If the problem is so immanent you need to take a gun to a park, you probably don't need to take your kids there," he said. "If you need a gun, you don't need to be there."

This statement tells me Mr. Flinn has no clue as to the mindset of handgun carriers. He thinks guns are only carried when danger is near, not as an everyday part of a person's wardrobe (that's not the right word, but I can't think of a better one just now).

Mr. Flinn, I carry a gun with me at all times, not just when I feel threatened. It's not that I'm paranoid, it's just that I believe in having the right tool for the job, and protecting me and mine from dog attacks, muggers, carjackers, etc. is a job I feel I can do best with a handgun.

I'm competent, trained, and careful. I'm not going to shoot a kid for pushing another kid off a swing. Chances are, I will run from danger if I can. I don't want to be a hero, nor do I secretly want to use my handgun. I just want to live to see another day.

There's more, but it's just more of the same.

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