Free Republic

Mayor S. Fred Simmons' habit of carrying a gun around Aberdeen has received criticism from residents in recent weeks. Last week, it got him an award. An organization Simmons says he had never heard of announced it has bestowed upon him the Responsible Democracy Award - because he carries a gun and isn't afraid to say so.

Shall-issue gun law: Any objections now? Thursday, January 13, 2005 It was a contentious debate that led lawmakers in 2001 to add Michigan to the roster of states with shall-carry gun laws. The debate is over, and a recent Citizen Patriot review of the past three years makes us wonder what all the fuss was about. Many feared that if you let lots of people carry concealed guns, there would be shoot-outs, assassinations and general mayhem. It hasn't happened, though. Lawmakers passed the Michigan law in July 2001. In Jackson County, CCW permits were running about 10 per month before...

Armed store owner catches burglar Thursday, May 15, 2003By Ken KolkerThe Grand Rapids Press PORT SHELDON -- Robert Carini had no intention of becoming a "poster child" for the gun lobby, but he is resigned to the possibility. The 39-year-old co-owner of Gold Coast Outfitters, who has a license to carry a concealed weapon, jumped out of bed early today and grabbed his semi-automatic pistol after he was awakened by a burglar alarm at his store. By the time he reached his shop, the burglar was outside with a backpack full of sporting goods and a desire to leave. Carini...