ChinChin wrote:
roscoe13 wrote:
Someone should remind the moron that he works for the citizens, not the LE community...
I seriously doubt it was honestly the "LE Community" as much as it was representatives from ABC and VA Restaurants who have opposed this bill at every turn. The VA restaurants association pulls in a BUTTLOAD of revenue from tourists and locals and has attempted to wield their influence in capitol quarters before. The sight of armed Virginians in their establishments, oh the horror. . .never mind it would act as a crime deterrent and help their patrons and tourists from being robbed, they fear it might make people uncomfortable!!!!!
Pardon me while I puke.
LEO's are just a red hearing to shield the restaurant association from potential backlash, bad press, boycotts, etc.
I have not posted here for a very long time but I am lurking on the board every day. Many will remember that I was caught up in a controversy with the VCDL in my restaurant (Hard Times Cafe in Woodbridge)with my position and policies in regard to open carry. I'd like to think that the result of our talks back and forth was a more amicable approach to educating the restaurant owners and employees out there on open carry when there is an issue or disagreement.
I do not know a single restaurant owner or manager that has an issue with CHP holders carrying concealed in their establishments. In fact everyone I know prefers, as I do, that they be able to carry concealed. I ama member of the VCDL, the NRA, own 3 handguns & an AR15, and am still adding to the collection when I can! But, we're in the business of pleasing people and our personal likes and dislikes go out the door when we open for business. The large majority of restaurant owners are Republican by the very nature of their entrepunerial spirit. We hold the same ideals as you.
When this issue came up I worked with Phillip Van Cleave and wrote a letter in enthusiastic supportfor the repeal of theconcealed carry ban for him to distribute to the state legislature as he saw fit. My intention was to come down to testify in the committee but my schedule just did not allow for it. I am terribly disappointed with Gov. Kaine's vetoes but we all had to know he'd go and pander to his base on this. I will sendmyoriginalor another letter to the governor and my state representatives to help override this veto. The only good that may come of this is to possibly get the damn silly requirement to notify the restaurant when they are carrying concealed.
Randy Barnette
