westernjournal--2020-10-13--Black-Owned Restaurant Shot Up for Being Pro-Police, Owner Says

Vandals shot through the windows of a cafe owned by a black Army veteran during a demonstration in Portland , Oregon , on Sunday because of the cafe ’ s pro-police stance , the owner said .
The incident occurred a few days after owner John Jackson said someone called the Heroes American Cafe on Thursday to say it was on a list of pro-police establishments and he should expect something to happen because of it .
“ We kind of dismissed it as whatever , ” the veteran said , according to the New York Post .
On Sunday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were shot through and one was smashed with a baseball bat , according to The Oregonian .
“ It looked like a planned thing because they called us on Thursday and threatened us , ” Jackson said .
He told KOIN-TV reporter Jennifer Dowling that the damage will cost him roughly $ 3,000 , a large sum during a time when small businesses are already struggling .
The burger joint was targeted for being an “ unfriendly business ” by antifa-linked Twitter accounts , according to Fox News .
“ We ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ non-friendly businesses in PDX , ” one tweet said , according to the report .
“ AKA any company that ’ s hanging blue lives garbage in their store or anything else that ’ s anti the BLM movement .
Drop them below.
” A tweet from @ DublinPDX , a protected account , said the Heroes American Cafe gave its profits “ to their heroes … cops , ” according to Fox .
“ We ’ re for all heroes and we don ’ t support zeroes , ” Jackson told The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re a bad cop , we don ’ t really have time for you .
If you ’ re walking your beat and you ’ re taking care of your people or you ’ re saving lives , we love you.
” The attack on the downtown cafe occurred during a “ day of rage ” demonstration where rioters toppled statues of Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt as well as engaged in vandalism .
Jackson said those targeting his restaurant don ’ t know who he is or what his establishment stands for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lincoln Statue , Smash Up Historical Society in 'Day of Rage' “ We are pro heroes , any hero — whether it ’ s a teacher , a firefighter , a police officer or a vet , ” he told The Oregonian .
“ We ’ ve very American in nature .
I served in the military .
We ’ re red , white and blue .
Whatever side you ’ re on , you have a right to believe what you believe , but you don ’ t have a right to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We kind of felt like we ’ re neutral.
” There has been a string of demonstrations and riots across the country and in Portland since the May 25 death of George Floyd in Minneapolis after a police officer knelt on his neck for roughly nine minutes during an arrest .
“ To the business owners & the people , hang in there .
We are all in this together , ” Jackson told Dowling .
“ This type of violence makes no sense .
It only hurts the small guys like myself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service to the community.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Vandals shot through the windows of a cafe owned by a black Army veteran during a demonstration in Portland, Oregon, on Sunday because of the cafe’s pro-police stance, the owner said.
The incident occurred a few days after owner John Jackson said someone called the Heroes American Cafe on Thursday to say it was on a list of pro-police establishments and he should expect something to happen because of it.
“We kind of dismissed it as whatever,” the veteran said, according to the New York Post.
On Sunday, two windows of Heroes American Cafe were shot through and one was smashed with a baseball bat, according to The Oregonian.
“It looked like a planned thing because they called us on Thursday and threatened us,” Jackson said.
He told KOIN-TV reporter Jennifer Dowling that the damage will cost him roughly $3,000, a large sum during a time when small businesses are already struggling.
John Jackson: “To the business owners & the people, hang in there. We are all in this together. This type of violence makes no sense. It only hurts the small guys like myself. We are just here providing a service to the community.” #koin6news #PDX #PNW #Oregon #Portland pic.twitter.com/TJVLsYCKy9 — Jennifer Dowling (@JenDowlingKoin6) October 12, 2020
The burger joint was targeted for being an “unfriendly business” by antifa-linked Twitter accounts, according to Fox News.
“We’re trying to compile a list of all non-friendly businesses in PDX,” one tweet said, according to the report. “AKA any company that’s hanging blue lives garbage in their store or anything else that’s anti the BLM movement. Drop them below.”
A tweet from @DublinPDX, a protected account, said the Heroes American Cafe gave its profits “to their heroes … cops,” according to Fox.
“We’re for all heroes and we don’t support zeroes,” Jackson told The Oregonian. “So if you’re a bad cop, we don’t really have time for you. If you’re walking your beat and you’re taking care of your people or you’re saving lives, we love you.”
The attack on the downtown cafe occurred during a “day of rage” demonstration where rioters toppled statues of Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt as well as engaged in vandalism.
Jackson said those targeting his restaurant don’t know who he is or what his establishment stands for.
“We are pro heroes, any hero — whether it’s a teacher, a firefighter, a police officer or a vet,” he told The Oregonian.
“We’ve very American in nature. I served in the military. We’re red, white and blue. Whatever side you’re on, you have a right to believe what you believe, but you don’t have a right to step on whatever you disagree with. We kind of felt like we’re neutral.”
There has been a string of demonstrations and riots across the country and in Portland since the May 25 death of George Floyd in Minneapolis after a police officer knelt on his neck for roughly nine minutes during an arrest.
“To the business owners & the people, hang in there. We are all in this together,” Jackson told Dowling.
“This type of violence makes no sense. It only hurts the small guys like myself. We are just here providing a service to the community.”
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--Radical Leftists Release Guide To ‘Stop the Coup’ and ‘Disrupt’ America if Election Is Close

Radical left activists have released an online “ resistance ” guide which outlines how they can coordinate to disrupt the country should President Donald Trump be re-elected to a second term next month , or if the results of the election are close .
Through uprisings , massive and nationwide civil unrest , job walkouts and more , the group ShutDownDC has authored a document as a roadmap for post-election interference .
The manifesto , if you will , has been meticulously crafted and has received significant editorial oversight — meaning this is no manifesto written by fringe and uneducated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and is an apparent product of a group called The Disruption Project , which vows it is dedicated to “ supporting uprisings , resistance and mass direct action.
” The document calls for the possibility of violence in the wake of the election results , and adds : “ In the end , the actual electorate might be split , half truly believing that Trump was elected legally , and half knowing that he was not.
” “ In order to really win we will need to force some pillars of power @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or other major institutions ) to decide to side with the people , or at least get out of the way .
If everyday life goes on , a despot will not leave power , and so there will be no incentive for real systems change .
You want to think about what it might take to stop business-as-usual.
” The manifesto states that activities of disruption will begin if Trump is declared victorious over Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden .
“ Trump may try to declare himself the victor before the votes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ call the race .
Those who can should be prepared to take action against those who are feeding into the stolen election narrative , including social media companies that are letting falsehoods or incitements to violence spread , ” the document states .
It ’ s essentially a “ how to ” on throwing all America ’ s systems into chaos , and preventing the country from moving on past the election .
Oddly , the manifesto calls for these actions whether Trump is re-elected or not .
It appears to be more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overthrow a perception of institutionalized oppression for minority Americans .
“ We want to be clear here , though : we are not a group of Biden supporters .
This is not about ensuring that the Democrats win , but actually preparing for the possibility that white supremacist violence will continue , ” the document states .
“ Resistance in this context must be more than symbolic action .
That context demands more than marches facilitated by local authorities.
” “ Where we can , we need to be in the streets , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sites of power and power holders .
In our jobs and lives we must refuse to allow those taking control the legitimacy of the power they seek through strikes , slowdowns , and boycotts , and public refusal to accept an illegitimate ruling party.
” RELATED : Planned Parenthood Gets Hostile Over Amy Coney Barrett Quoting Legendary President at Hearing One particularly disturbing piece of the leftist manifesto is its commitment to supporting large scale “ uprisings.
” The document puts an emphasis on stockpiles of food , access to medics and a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the group feels they might be needed .
These are the same kinds of organizational tactics we ’ ve seen during protests and riots in the country ’ s cities since May .
“ Sustained action is hard .
Not only physically , but also emotionally and mentally grueling .
Interpersonal and inter-community conflict in times of crisis is real and is also used by federal agents to tear apart organizing communities , ” the manifesto states .
“ Organized groups of people who can proactively offer trauma and emotional support to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fatigue , avoidance , and eventual burnout .
Building teams dedicated to proactive conflict engagement can help break the cycle of our people tearing each other apart and leaving the work.
” The document is essentially a framework for the radical left to launch a covert civil war with recruits , but it avoids directly saying so , with coded language such as this : “ Be Aware of Security , But Don ’ t Overdo It : Some groups will want to keep their plans discreet , and others may be open @ @ @ @ @ @ @ increasing your ability to recruit , so make sure that those open groups get a chance to recruit new people every meeting.
” The 38-page Google document avoids using language about taking violent action , firearms or other weapons — or what its proposed actions could look like .
But it hints at using tactics to disrupt transportation and the continuity of commerce while organizing and following adequate leadership .
It also asks its readers to prepare for a prolonged conflict while recruiting new members , and warns numerous times that plans of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while refraining from using electronic means of communication .
If plans for a leftist insurgency or revolution in America ’ s cities are being planned , this document essentially offers resisters of the election results a map on how to foment the chaos .
The country is currently in a state of division it has arguably not seen since the Civil War .
While most Americans are going about their lives by going to work , enjoying time with family and preparing to take an American approach to choosing the country ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s clear that a large group of people intends to take a different approach .
The left ’ s 2020 protests , riots and other actions of civil discourse have clearly created an organized movement that doesn ’ t appear to be going anywhere .
The document is either a roadmap for a revolution and civil conflict , or it ’ s another veiled threat at violence if Democrats are not put into power following the Nov. 3 election .
In any event , it ’ s a signal that Democrats and their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ win in three weeks , which is promising .
Most Americans want nothing to do with the left ’ s violence , but the document makes clear one thing : we might have seen only the tip of the iceberg with regard to the left ’ s war on the country .
If indeed the country is facing organized massive protests , riots or other actions against civility , it would be wise to know what they are up to .
The document is linked further up , but for quick access , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Radical left activists have released an online “resistance” guide which outlines how they can coordinate to disrupt the country should President Donald Trump be re-elected to a second term next month, or if the results of the election are close.
Through uprisings, massive and nationwide civil unrest, job walkouts and more, the group ShutDownDC has authored a document as a roadmap for post-election interference.
The manifesto, if you will, has been meticulously crafted and has received significant editorial oversight — meaning this is no manifesto written by fringe and uneducated radicals.
The document has been well-written, and is an apparent product of a group called The Disruption Project, which vows it is dedicated to “supporting uprisings, resistance and mass direct action.”
The document calls for the possibility of violence in the wake of the election results, and adds: “In the end, the actual electorate might be split, half truly believing that Trump was elected legally, and half knowing that he was not.”
“In order to really win we will need to force some pillars of power (business, military, media, or other major institutions) to decide to side with the people, or at least get out of the way. If everyday life goes on, a despot will not leave power, and so there will be no incentive for real systems change. You want to think about what it might take to stop business-as-usual.”
The manifesto states that activities of disruption will begin if Trump is declared victorious over Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden.
“Trump may try to declare himself the victor before the votes are counted, or Fox News might call the race. Those who can should be prepared to take action against those who are feeding into the stolen election narrative, including social media companies that are letting falsehoods or incitements to violence spread,” the document states.
It’s essentially a “how to” on throwing all America’s systems into chaos, and preventing the country from moving on past the election.
Do you think the radical left intends to launch a campaign of mass, nationwide civil unrest next month? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 98% (363 Votes) No: 2% (6 Votes)
Oddly, the manifesto calls for these actions whether Trump is re-elected or not.
It appears to be more of a leftist call to action to overthrow a perception of institutionalized oppression for minority Americans.
“We want to be clear here, though: we are not a group of Biden supporters. This is not about ensuring that the Democrats win, but actually preparing for the possibility that white supremacist violence will continue,” the document states.
“Resistance in this context must be more than symbolic action. That context demands more than marches facilitated by local authorities.”
“Where we can, we need to be in the streets, on the highways, or at the sites of power and power holders. In our jobs and lives we must refuse to allow those taking control the legitimacy of the power they seek through strikes, slowdowns, and boycotts, and public refusal to accept an illegitimate ruling party.”
One particularly disturbing piece of the leftist manifesto is its commitment to supporting large scale “uprisings.”
The document puts an emphasis on stockpiles of food, access to medics and a logistical system for applying these resources wherever the group feels they might be needed.
These are the same kinds of organizational tactics we’ve seen during protests and riots in the country’s cities since May.
“Sustained action is hard. Not only physically, but also emotionally and mentally grueling. Interpersonal and inter-community conflict in times of crisis is real and is also used by federal agents to tear apart organizing communities,” the manifesto states.
“Organized groups of people who can proactively offer trauma and emotional support to the movement can help break the cycle of fatigue, avoidance, and eventual burnout. Building teams dedicated to proactive conflict engagement can help break the cycle of our people tearing each other apart and leaving the work.”
The document is essentially a framework for the radical left to launch a covert civil war with recruits, but it avoids directly saying so, with coded language such as this:
“Be Aware of Security, But Don’t Overdo It: Some groups will want to keep their plans discreet, and others may be open. The main advantage of openness is increasing your ability to recruit, so make sure that those open groups get a chance to recruit new people every meeting.”
The 38-page Google document avoids using language about taking violent action, firearms or other weapons — or what its proposed actions could look like.
But it hints at using tactics to disrupt transportation and the continuity of commerce while organizing and following adequate leadership.
It also asks its readers to prepare for a prolonged conflict while recruiting new members, and warns numerous times that plans of action should be discussed in private, while refraining from using electronic means of communication.
If plans for a leftist insurgency or revolution in America’s cities are being planned, this document essentially offers resisters of the election results a map on how to foment the chaos.
The country is currently in a state of division it has arguably not seen since the Civil War.
While most Americans are going about their lives by going to work, enjoying time with family and preparing to take an American approach to choosing the country’s path forward by voting, it’s clear that a large group of people intends to take a different approach.
The left’s 2020 protests, riots and other actions of civil discourse have clearly created an organized movement that doesn’t appear to be going anywhere.
The document is either a roadmap for a revolution and civil conflict, or it’s another veiled threat at violence if Democrats are not put into power following the Nov. 3 election.
In any event, it’s a signal that Democrats and their activists are not convinced that they will win in three weeks, which is promising.
Most Americans want nothing to do with the left’s violence, but the document makes clear one thing: we might have seen only the tip of the iceberg with regard to the left’s war on the country.
If indeed the country is facing organized massive protests, riots or other actions against civility, it would be wise to know what they are up to.
The document is linked further up, but for quick access, you can read it by clicking here.
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--Police Shed Light on Violent Altercation Behind Fatal Protest Shooting

A man fatally shot by a security guard after opposing weekend protests argued with another man before getting involved in an altercation with the guard , police said in a court document released Tuesday .
According to the arrest affidavit , Lee Keltner , 49 , got into a verbal dispute with a 27-year-old man in which both “ yelled and postured , ” leading others to believe the dispute was going to turn violent on Saturday .
Thirty-year-old Matthew Dolloff and a 25-year-old person engaged in an altercation with Keltner as he was still arguing with the 27-year-old man @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Dolloff pulled out a semiautomatic handgun and shot Keltner as Keltner discharged pepper spray at him , the document said .
The names of the people mentioned in the affidavit besides Dolloff and Keltner were redacted .
TRENDING : ATF Reversal Immediately Puts Millions of Gun Owners in Danger of Prison Time A lawyer for Dolloff ’ s family , Doug Richards , said on Monday that Dolloff opened fire because he saw Keltner reach into his pocket and he feared for his safety .
Police have said that two guns were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been jailed for investigation of first-degree murder but he has not been charged .
KUSA said it has hired private security guards for months to accompany its journalists at protests and that Dolloff was hired through the Pinkerton security company .
Pinkerton in a statement on Monday said Dolloff was a contracted agent and not an employee and that the company “ is fully cooperating with law enforcement authorities in their investigation of this matter.
” Denver officials have said Dolloff did not have a license to work as a security guard in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was allowed to work .
In a statement on Monday , the city attorney ’ s office said Dolloff , Pinkerton and KUSA and other entities that hired or deployed Dolloff could also face civil or criminal action .
Dolloff had a permit to carry a concealed weapon in Colorado issued by his local sheriff ’ s office but it was suspended Monday because of the allegations he faces , Elbert County Sheriff Tim Norton said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial @ @

A man fatally shot by a security guard after opposing weekend protests argued with another man before getting involved in an altercation with the guard, police said in a court document released Tuesday.
According to the arrest affidavit, Lee Keltner, 49, got into a verbal dispute with a 27-year-old man in which both “yelled and postured,” leading others to believe the dispute was going to turn violent on Saturday.
Thirty-year-old Matthew Dolloff and a 25-year-old person engaged in an altercation with Keltner as he was still arguing with the 27-year-old man.
Keltner slapped Dolloff on the head and Dolloff pulled out a semiautomatic handgun and shot Keltner as Keltner discharged pepper spray at him, the document said.
The names of the people mentioned in the affidavit besides Dolloff and Keltner were redacted.
A lawyer for Dolloff’s family, Doug Richards, said on Monday that Dolloff opened fire because he saw Keltner reach into his pocket and he feared for his safety.
Police have said that two guns were found at the scene.
Dolloff has been jailed for investigation of first-degree murder but he has not been charged.
KUSA said it has hired private security guards for months to accompany its journalists at protests and that Dolloff was hired through the Pinkerton security company.
Do you think this security guard is guilty of first-degree murder? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 69% (129 Votes) No: 31% (57 Votes)
Pinkerton in a statement on Monday said Dolloff was a contracted agent and not an employee and that the company “is fully cooperating with law enforcement authorities in their investigation of this matter.”
Denver officials have said Dolloff did not have a license to work as a security guard in the city and were investigating how he was allowed to work.
In a statement on Monday, the city attorney’s office said Dolloff, Pinkerton and KUSA and other entities that hired or deployed Dolloff could also face civil or criminal action.
Dolloff had a permit to carry a concealed weapon in Colorado issued by his local sheriff’s office but it was suspended Monday because of the allegations he faces, Elbert County Sheriff Tim Norton said.
[jwplayer 3TiC9aUd]
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--Woman Dubbed ‘Superhero’ After Finishing Bar Exam from Hospital Day After Giving Birth

Even the best-laid plans often go awry , but Brianna Hill of Chicago was adamant about holding it all together when forces beyond her power conspired to create the perfect storm .
Hill graduated from Loyola University Chicago ’ s School of Law this year and was all ready to take the bar exam at the end of July .
She was pregnant but not due until Oct. 19 , so it wouldn ’ t have been an issue .
But then the pandemic struck , and dates got rearranged .
The bar exam was rescheduled for Oct. 5 and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ following a strict set of rules .
That cut it close , but Hill didn ’ t realize just how close when she sat down to take the test , 38 weeks into her pregnancy .
“ I started the second section and 15 to 20 minutes in , I started having contractions , ” the 28-year-old Hill told ABC ’ s “ Good Morning America.
” “ I had already asked for an accommodation to get up and go to the bathroom because I was 38 weeks pregnant and they said I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” she said .
“ I couldn ’ t leave the view of the camera.
” “ I was determined .
Also , I ’ ve never been pregnant before , so I was [ thinking ] , ‘ I don ’ t know what this feels like . '
” “ I called my husband to tell him my water broke and he said , ‘ OK , we ’ re going to figure out how you ’ re going to finish this test , ’ and all my law school friends @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ' ” Hill explained .
She finished day one of the exam and went off to the hospital , giving birth to Cassius Phillip Andrew just a few short hours later .
But the exam was only half-completed , and not finishing was not an option for the brand-new mother .
It was a group effort to help Hill complete part two of the test , but thanks to the hospital finding a private room for her and placing a “ do not disturb ” sign on the door , Hill was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Woman 's Incredible Transformation After Struggling To Fit Into Restaurant Chairs “ I ’ m really thankful , ” she said .
“ Life throws curve balls at you , but when I have a goal , I ’ m going to see it through.
” Miranda Johnson , one of Hill ’ s professors , was impressed with her former student ’ s accomplishment and posted on LinkedIn to congratulate her and do a bit of bragging , calling her a “ superhero.
” While the results of the exam won @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hill can know she did everything humanly possible to take that test and in the meantime enjoy being a mom and getting to know her new bundle of joy , who is reportedly doing well .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Even the best-laid plans often go awry, but Brianna Hill of Chicago was adamant about holding it all together when forces beyond her power conspired to create the perfect storm.
Hill graduated from Loyola University Chicago’s School of Law this year and was all ready to take the bar exam at the end of July. She was pregnant but not due until Oct. 19, so it wouldn’t have been an issue.
But then the pandemic struck, and dates got rearranged. The bar exam was rescheduled for Oct. 5 and would be taken remotely, with test-takers following a strict set of rules.
That cut it close, but Hill didn’t realize just how close when she sat down to take the test, 38 weeks into her pregnancy.
“I started the second section and 15 to 20 minutes in, I started having contractions,” the 28-year-old Hill told ABC’s “Good Morning America.”
“I had already asked for an accommodation to get up and go to the bathroom because I was 38 weeks pregnant and they said I’d get flagged for cheating,” she said. “I couldn’t leave the view of the camera.”
“I was determined. Also, I’ve never been pregnant before, so I was [thinking], ‘I don’t know what this feels like.'”
“I called my husband to tell him my water broke and he said, ‘OK, we’re going to figure out how you’re going to finish this test,’ and all my law school friends texting saying, ‘You got this,'” Hill explained.
She finished day one of the exam and went off to the hospital, giving birth to Cassius Phillip Andrew just a few short hours later.
But the exam was only half-completed, and not finishing was not an option for the brand-new mother.
It was a group effort to help Hill complete part two of the test, but thanks to the hospital finding a private room for her and placing a “do not disturb” sign on the door, Hill was able to finish the test.
“I’m really thankful,” she said. “Life throws curve balls at you, but when I have a goal, I’m going to see it through.”
Miranda Johnson, one of Hill’s professors, was impressed with her former student’s accomplishment and posted on LinkedIn to congratulate her and do a bit of bragging, calling her a “superhero.”
While the results of the exam won’t be announced until December, Hill can know she did everything humanly possible to take that test and in the meantime enjoy being a mom and getting to know her new bundle of joy, who is reportedly doing well.
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--‘She’s That Smart’: Amy Coney Barrett Shows Her Notes in Telling Hearing Moment

For Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett , a blank notepad said it all .
In Day 2 of her hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee , Barrett was pounded by questions from Democratic senators on abortion , gun control , racism , the weight of court precedent and other issues she handled off the top of her head .
It was an impressive showing by any account , but it took a question from Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas to highlight how impressive it was .
“ You know most of us have multiple notebooks and notes and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of us , ” Cornyn told the nominee .
“ Can you hold up what you ’ ve been referring to in answering our questions ?
” Barrett held up a blank notepad as the room chuckled .
“ Is there anything on it ?
” Cornyn asked .
As Supreme Court nomination hearings go in the era of scorched-earth Democratic warfare against President Donald Trump , it ’ s probably about the lightest moment Americans – or Barrett herself – can expect .
And social media users ate it up .
RELATED @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barrett for Her Answer on George Floyd Question Democrats have spent the past two days accusing Barrett of being a nominee to set back the rights of women ( Vermont repugnant Pat Leahy ) or trying to box her in on abortion ( the duplicitous Dianne Feinstein , who played such a dishonorable role in the last Supreme Court nomination ) .
Barrett ’ s been publicly lied about on the campaign trail by the Democratic nominee for president .
She ’ s been attacked on the basis of her faith .
Through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has maintained an intelligent affability that looks like it ’ s well on the way toward winning her confirmation to the high court .
How previous SCOTUS nominees have handled themselves ( or availed themselves of a notepad , for that matter ) can ’ t be compared to what Barrett was faced with .
This is a woman who watched the living hell Democrats created for now-Justice Brett Kavanaugh through his confirmation hearings .
As courageously as Kavanaugh acquitted himself in that trial , it had to take a considerable amount of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barrett to place herself and her family in a position to face the same kind of baseless attacks .
Yet Barrett accepted Trump ’ s nomination and , as the first days of the hearings have shown , has been able to meet every Democratic challenge unaided .
As a Supreme Court nominee should be , Barrett has been measured in her responses , careful in her word choice and determined not to give the president ’ s political enemies any ammunition against him .
Barrett ’ s notepad might have been blank @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her head that mattered .
And Democrats – whether in the Senate , among liberal intellectuals or in the mainstream media – haven ’ t been able to touch her yet .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

For Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett, a blank notepad said it all.
In Day 2 of her hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Barrett was pounded by questions from Democratic senators on abortion, gun control, racism, the weight of court precedent and other issues she handled off the top of her head.
It was an impressive showing by any account, but it took a question from Republican Sen. John Cornyn of Texas to highlight how impressive it was.
Senator Cornyn asks Amy Coney Barrett if she’s been working from notes with her thoughtful and intelligent answers. Nope! pic.twitter.com/tKKoNzyYbI — Scott Whitlock (@ScottJW) October 13, 2020
“You know most of us have multiple notebooks and notes and books and things like that in front of us,” Cornyn told the nominee. “Can you hold up what you’ve been referring to in answering our questions?”
Barrett held up a blank notepad as the room chuckled.
“Is there anything on it?” Cornyn asked.
“The letterhead that says ‘United States Senate,'” Barrett responded.
As Supreme Court nomination hearings go in the era of scorched-earth Democratic warfare against President Donald Trump, it’s probably about the lightest moment Americans – or Barrett herself – can expect.
And social media users ate it up.
I wonder if the Senators are talking off the cuff or if they have notes? ANSWER: Thousands of staffers writing “gotcha” questions and sending them to the Senators. — Dr. Phil (Parler @DrPhilKnows) (@DrPhilKn0ws) October 13, 2020
But we’re the brilliant minds taking you to task! pic.twitter.com/4KURHqCY2s — Strangest Times (@ShaolinKungFu81) October 13, 2020
Yet sleepy @JoeBiden needs a teleprompter for his speeches — Charlie O (@C_Ost9) October 13, 2020
Smartest Person in the Hearing: During US Senate confirmation, Amy Coney Barrett was asked about her notes & prepared talking points. Barrett held up a BLANK notepad — she doesn’t need notes for her lengthy hearing??? https://t.co/EGImn437kL via @nypost — Thorpe4Coconino (@Thorpe4C) October 13, 2020
When you live with integrity, you don’t need notes to remember your truth. — trl12 (@TR_Lynn) October 13, 2020
Democrats have spent the past two days accusing Barrett of being a nominee to set back the rights of women (Vermont repugnant Pat Leahy) or trying to box her in on abortion (the duplicitous Dianne Feinstein, who played such a dishonorable role in the last Supreme Court nomination).
Barrett’s been publicly lied about on the campaign trail by the Democratic nominee for president. She’s been attacked on the basis of her faith.
Through it all, so far, she has maintained an intelligent affability that looks like it’s well on the way toward winning her confirmation to the high court.
How previous SCOTUS nominees have handled themselves (or availed themselves of a notepad, for that matter) can’t be compared to what Barrett was faced with.
This is a woman who watched the living hell Democrats created for now-Justice Brett Kavanaugh through his confirmation hearings. As courageously as Kavanaugh acquitted himself in that trial, it had to take a considerable amount of courage, and soul searching, for Barrett to place herself and her family in a position to face the same kind of baseless attacks.
Do you think Amy Coney Barrett deserves to sit on the Supreme Court? Yes No
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Yet Barrett accepted Trump’s nomination and, as the first days of the hearings have shown, has been able to meet every Democratic challenge unaided.
As a Supreme Court nominee should be, Barrett has been measured in her responses, careful in her word choice and determined not to give the president’s political enemies any ammunition against him.
Barrett’s notepad might have been blank, but it was what was in her head that mattered. And Democrats – whether in the Senate, among liberal intellectuals or in the mainstream media – haven’t been able to touch her yet.
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--‘Accidentally’ Cut Cable Wreaks Havoc on Final Day of Voter Registration

Virginia residents hoping to register to vote on the final day of voter registration for the November elections were out of luck Tuesday after the state ’ s online registration system went down due to what was described as an accident .
Anyone wanting to register online got this message on the state ’ s online portal : “ Due to a network outage the Citizen Portal is temporarily unavailable.
” The Virginia Information Technology Agency indicated on Twitter that a fiber cable cut near Route 10 in Chester , Virginia , was the cause .
“ This morning the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Virginia Information Technology Agency that a fiber cut near Rt .
10 in Chester near the Commonwealth Enterprise Solutions Center ( CESC ) was impacting data circuits and virtual private network ( VPN ) connectivity for multiple Commonwealth agencies , ” Virginia Department of Elections spokeswoman Andrea Gaines said in a statement .
“ This has affected the Department ’ s citizen portal along with local registrar ’ s offices across the Commonwealth .
Technicians are on site and working to repair the cut ; updates will be provided as work progresses.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to WTOP-TV .
No estimate of when the voter registration site would be back online was available early Tuesday afternoon .
Virginia voters still have the options of going to elections offices in person to register or sending their registration applications by mail .
Some on Twitter wondered about the timing of the service interruption .
Virginia Lt. Gov .
Justin Fairfax called for the registration deadline to be extended in light of the complication .
Fairfax County elections director Gary Scott said early voting is able to take place using backup @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been halted by the outage .
“ Unfortunately , I ’ ve got 300 staff sitting around here waiting to mail out absentee ballots and process registration applications who really can ’ t do anything , ” he said .
“ Everything else has come to a stop.
” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Virginia residents hoping to register to vote on the final day of voter registration for the November elections were out of luck Tuesday after the state’s online registration system went down due to what was described as an accident.
Anyone wanting to register online got this message on the state’s online portal: “Due to a network outage the Citizen Portal is temporarily unavailable.”
NEW >> Virginia voter registration system is DOWN for the entire state… on the final day to register. Officials feared this would happen. They told us over the system, called VERIS, is still “insufficiently reliable”
STORY:@WUSA9 #EarlyVoting @CBSNewshttps://t.co/kCop0GhmQG — Mike Valerio (@MikevWUSA) October 13, 2020
Virginia election officials say *this* accidentally cut wire in Chesterfield County is likely why Virginia’s entire voter registration system is down… On the final day to register to vote.@WUSA9 @CBSNews #VOTE https://t.co/J7axn996jQ — Mike Valerio (@MikevWUSA) October 13, 2020
The Virginia Information Technology Agency indicated on Twitter that a fiber cable cut near Route 10 in Chester, Virginia, was the cause.
“This morning the Department of Elections was alerted by the Virginia Information Technology Agency that a fiber cut near Rt. 10 in Chester near the Commonwealth Enterprise Solutions Center (CESC) was impacting data circuits and virtual private network (VPN) connectivity for multiple Commonwealth agencies,” Virginia Department of Elections spokeswoman Andrea Gaines said in a statement.
Is this accident a bit suspicious? Yes No
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“This has affected the Department’s citizen portal along with local registrar’s offices across the Commonwealth. Technicians are on site and working to repair the cut; updates will be provided as work progresses.”
This morning we were alerted by VITA that a fiber cut near the Commonwealth Enterprise Solutions Center was impacting data circuits and VPN connectivity for multiple agencies. This has affected the citizen portal along w/ registrar’s offices. — VA Dept of Elections (@vaELECT) October 13, 2020
Other state agencies were also affected, according to WTOP-TV.
DMV appointments affected by this outage will be rescheduled. Prior to attending your DMV appointment, please check our social media for updates on service restoration. Thank you for your patience. https://t.co/QkQx4Ap3k1 — VirginiaDMV (@VirginiaDMV) October 13, 2020
No estimate of when the voter registration site would be back online was available early Tuesday afternoon.
Virginia voters still have the options of going to elections offices in person to register or sending their registration applications by mail.
Some on Twitter wondered about the timing of the service interruption.
Virginia’s voter registration system reportedly having problems on the last day to register to vote, with early voting in full swing https://t.co/e6npNCYZLI — Graham Moomaw (@gmoomaw) October 13, 2020
PA also had an outage last week, definitely stinks and I hope someone is paying attention to this insanity. — DogMom (@Tess20052020Mom) October 13, 2020
Cutting the internet cords to the Virginia Department of Elections on the last day of registrtion for the 2020 elections. Internet security is election security! Let’s make sure this does not happen in any other state leading up to the election day! — Beth Flashner (@FlashnerB) October 13, 2020
Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax called for the registration deadline to be extended in light of the complication.
I am officially calling for Virginia’s Registration Deadline to be extended beyond today due to the service outages impacting voters’ ability to register statewide. We will work with the Administration to resolve this issue and ensure all voters have access to #Vote. https://t.co/PKt3vKoOnu — Justin Fairfax (@LGJustinFairfax) October 13, 2020
Fairfax County elections director Gary Scott said early voting is able to take place using backup poll books, but other processes have been halted by the outage.
“Unfortunately, I’ve got 300 staff sitting around here waiting to mail out absentee ballots and process registration applications who really can’t do anything,” he said. “Everything else has come to a stop.”
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--Social Security Administration Announces Benefits Increase for 2021

The Social Security Administration announced Tuesday that Social Security beneficiaries will see a 1.3 percent increase to their monthly checks in 2021 .
The cost-of-living adjustment will start with benefits payable to over 64 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2021 , the administration said in a news release .
The increased payments will start Dec. 31 , 2020 , for 8 million beneficiaries .
The annual COLA increase is tied to the Consumer Price Index determined by the Department of Labor ’ s Bureau of Labor Statistics .
The COLA affects the personal finances of 1 in 5 Americans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ veterans and federal retirees , according to CBS News .
The Senior Citizens League , a nonpartisan advocacy group for older Americans , also estimated a 1.3 percent boost based on the BLS data , CNBC reported .
After the 1.3 percent increase , retirees ’ estimated average monthly benefit will increase from $ 1,523 to $ 1,543 in 2021 .
The average monthly benefit for disabled workers will increase from $ 1,261 to $ 1,277 .
Based on the increase , the Social Security taxable maximum will also increase from $ 137,700 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Social Security Administration .
The 1.3 percent cost-of-living adjustment is smaller than the adjustment retirees and other beneficiaries saw in 2020 and 2019 .
In 2019 , they received a 1.6 percent increase , and in 2019 , they received a 2.8 percent increase .
However , the increase is larger than the 0 percent increase beneficiaries saw in 2010 , 2011 and 2016 as well as the 0.3 percent increase in 2017 .
The average cost-of-living adjustment since 2010 has been 1.4 percent .
In the face of the coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a tougher time stretching their benefit checks , according to CNBC .
The Senior Citizens League is asking Congress for an emergency 3 percent COLA to help beneficiaries in 2021 .
“ We are looking at a period where there are growing inadequacies in Social Security benefits , particularly for people with lower-to-middle benefits , ” Senior Citizens League analyst Mary Johnson told CBS News .
The COLA is only part of the annual financial calculation for seniors ; Medicare ’ s “ Part B ” premium is expected to be announced this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a lot of uncertainty with regard to the effect of the coronavirus on the cost of the premium for next year , ” Casey Schwarz from the Medicare Rights Center advocacy group said .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

The Social Security Administration announced Tuesday that Social Security beneficiaries will see a 1.3 percent increase to their monthly checks in 2021.
The cost-of-living adjustment will start with benefits payable to over 64 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2021, the administration said in a news release.
The increased payments will start Dec. 31, 2020, for 8 million beneficiaries.
The annual COLA increase is tied to the Consumer Price Index determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The COLA affects the personal finances of 1 in 5 Americans, including Social Security recipients, disabled veterans and federal retirees, according to CBS News.
The Senior Citizens League, a nonpartisan advocacy group for older Americans, also estimated a 1.3 percent boost based on the BLS data, CNBC reported.
After the 1.3 percent increase, retirees’ estimated average monthly benefit will increase from $1,523 to $1,543 in 2021.
The average monthly benefit for disabled workers will increase from $1,261 to $1,277.
Based on the increase, the Social Security taxable maximum will also increase from $137,700 to $142, 800, according to the Social Security Administration.
Do you think this will be enough in 2021? Yes No
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The 1.3 percent cost-of-living adjustment is smaller than the adjustment retirees and other beneficiaries saw in 2020 and 2019.
In 2019, they received a 1.6 percent increase, and in 2019, they received a 2.8 percent increase.
However, the increase is larger than the 0 percent increase beneficiaries saw in 2010, 2011 and 2016 as well as the 0.3 percent increase in 2017.
The average cost-of-living adjustment since 2010 has been 1.4 percent.
In the face of the coronavirus pandemic, Social Security beneficiaries have had a tougher time stretching their benefit checks, according to CNBC.
The Senior Citizens League is asking Congress for an emergency 3 percent COLA to help beneficiaries in 2021.
“We are looking at a period where there are growing inadequacies in Social Security benefits, particularly for people with lower-to-middle benefits,” Senior Citizens League analyst Mary Johnson told CBS News.
The COLA is only part of the annual financial calculation for seniors; Medicare’s “Part B” premium is expected to be announced this fall as well.
“There’s a lot of uncertainty with regard to the effect of the coronavirus on the cost of the premium for next year,” Casey Schwarz from the Medicare Rights Center advocacy group said.
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--Amy Coney Barrett Turns the Tables on Feinstein’s Wild Hypothetical Question

On Tuesday , Supreme Court nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett danced around land mines as she told Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California that she would decide on cases as they come before her and not a moment before that .
Feinstein , the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee , wanted Barrett to tip her hand on how she would rule under various scenarios .
“ Does the Constitution give the president of the United States the authority to unilaterally delay a general election under any circumstances ?
Does federal law ?
” Feinstein asked in one exchange @ @ @ @ @ @ @ upon cases , not on speculation .
“ If that question ever came before me , I would need to hear arguments from the litigants and read briefs and consult with my law clerks and talk to my colleagues and go through the opinion-writing process , ” she said .
“ If I give off-the-cuff answers then I would be basically a legal pundit and I do not think we want judges to be legal pundits .
I think we want judges to approach cases thoughtfully and with an open mind , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s testimony that in her philosophy , the text of the Constitution is paramount .
“ I interpret the Constitution as a law , ” she said , according to The New York Times .
“ The text is text , and I understand it to have the meaning that it had at the time people ratified it .
It does not change over time , and it is not up to me to update it or infuse my own views into it.
” Although in her opening statement she praised the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , she also pushed back against a comment from Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina about people labeling her a “ female Scalia.
” “ I want to be careful to say that if I am confirmed , you would not be getting Justice Scalia .
You would be getting Justice Barrett , and that is so because not all originalists agree , ” she said .
When Feinstein tried to pry a response about the Roe v. Wade case that legalized abortion nationwide out of Barrett , the nominee said she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some agenda ” on abortion .
At one point during an exchange with Feinstein , she commented in reference to the Supreme Court ’ s 1992 ruling in Casey v. Planned Parenthood , another landmark abortion case , “ I have no agenda to try and overrule Casey .
I have an agenda to stick to the rule of law and decide cases as they come.
” “ Judges can not just wake up one day and say , ‘ I have an agenda — I like guns , I hate guns , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ’ and walk in like a royal queen and impose their will on the world , ” Barrett also said to Graham , the chairman of the judiciary committee .
“ It ’ s distressing not to get a straight answer , ” Feinstein eventually said .
When asked about court precedents , Barrett said she would not outline those she likes or dislikes .
“ It would actually be wrong and a violation of the cannons for me to do that as a sitting judge , ” Barrett said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I hate it , it signals that I might tilt one way or another in a pending case.
” She has made and will make no promises to rule a specific way on any issue or case .
“ I ’ m not willing to make a deal — not with the committee , not with the president , ” she said according to Forbes .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

On Tuesday, Supreme Court nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett danced around land mines as she told Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California that she would decide on cases as they come before her and not a moment before that.
Feinstein, the ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee, wanted Barrett to tip her hand on how she would rule under various scenarios.
“Does the Constitution give the president of the United States the authority to unilaterally delay a general election under any circumstances? Does federal law?” Feinstein asked in one exchange.
Barrett replied that she would rule upon cases, not on speculation.
“If that question ever came before me, I would need to hear arguments from the litigants and read briefs and consult with my law clerks and talk to my colleagues and go through the opinion-writing process,” she said.
BARRETT: “If I give off-the-cuff answers then I would be basically a legal pundit and I do not think we want judges to be legal pundit. I think we want judges to approach cases thoughtfully and with an open mind.” pic.twitter.com/Lgeogw7VnU — Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) October 13, 2020
“If I give off-the-cuff answers then I would be basically a legal pundit and I do not think we want judges to be legal pundits. I think we want judges to approach cases thoughtfully and with an open mind,” she added.
Barrett said during Tuesday’s testimony that in her philosophy, the text of the Constitution is paramount.
Do you think the Democrats are grasping at straws to stop Barrett from being confirmed? Yes No
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“I interpret the Constitution as a law,” she said, according to The New York Times. “The text is text, and I understand it to have the meaning that it had at the time people ratified it. It does not change over time, and it is not up to me to update it or infuse my own views into it.”
Although in her opening statement she praised the influence of Justice Antonin Scalia upon her, she also pushed back against a comment from Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina about people labeling her a “female Scalia.”
“I want to be careful to say that if I am confirmed, you would not be getting Justice Scalia. You would be getting Justice Barrett, and that is so because not all originalists agree,” she said.
Amy Coney Barrett says she’s an “originalist” like Scalia: “I interpret the Constitution as a law … and I understand it to have the meaning that it had at the time people ratified. That meaning doesn’t change over time and it’s not up to me to update it.” https://t.co/9PtXxuNKwW pic.twitter.com/7mpaATeSOn — ABC News Politics (@ABCPolitics) October 13, 2020
When Feinstein tried to pry a response about the Roe v. Wade case that legalized abortion nationwide out of Barrett, the nominee said she would not become a justice with “some agenda” on abortion.
Amy Coney Barrett to @SenFeinstein: “I can’t pre-commit or say yes I’m going in with some agenda because I’m not.” “I have an agenda to stick to the rule of law and decide cases as they come.” pic.twitter.com/R6Bo2xo1Hf — Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) October 13, 2020
At one point during an exchange with Feinstein, she commented in reference to the Supreme Court’s 1992 ruling in Casey v. Planned Parenthood, another landmark abortion case, “I have no agenda to try and overrule Casey. I have an agenda to stick to the rule of law and decide cases as they come.”
“Judges cannot just wake up one day and say, ‘I have an agenda — I like guns, I hate guns, I like abortion, I hate abortion,’ and walk in like a royal queen and impose their will on the world,” Barrett also said to Graham, the chairman of the judiciary committee.
Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett: “Judges can’t just wake up one day and say, I have an agenda, I like guns, I hate guns, I like abortion, I hate abortion, and walk in like a royal queen and impose their will on the world.” pic.twitter.com/pt0M7oyA3L — Mary Margaret Olohan (@MaryMargOlohan) October 13, 2020
“It’s distressing not to get a straight answer,” Feinstein eventually said.
Feinstein to Barrett after she declines to say if Roe v. Wade was wrongly decided: “On something that is really a major cause with major effect on over half of the population of this country, who are women … it’s distressing not to get a straight answer.” https://t.co/OFIhfeFBUy pic.twitter.com/M4ePqu4eMo — ABC News (@ABC) October 13, 2020
When asked about court precedents, Barrett said she would not outline those she likes or dislikes.
“It would actually be wrong and a violation of the cannons for me to do that as a sitting judge,” Barrett said.
“Whether I say I love it or I hate it, it signals that I might tilt one way or another in a pending case.”
She has made and will make no promises to rule a specific way on any issue or case.
“I’m not willing to make a deal — not with the committee, not with the president,” she said according to Forbes.
“I’m independent.”
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--ATF Reversal Immediately Puts Millions of Gun Owners in Danger of Prison Time

Gun manufacturer Q , LLC of Portsmouth , New Hampshire , received a cease-and-desist letter from the Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms and Explosives ’ Boston Field Office this summer notifying the company that its popular “ Honey Badger Pistol ” is really a “ firearm ” as defined by the National Firearms Act .
Specifically , the ATF said it had “ examined ” the Honey Badger Pistol and determined it is actually a “ short-barreled rifle ” and therefore subject to the same regulations governing that class of firearms .
This decision has the potential to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into criminals by decree .
The letter , dated Aug. 3 and made public last week , further informed Q that two additional products , the manufacturer ’ s Sugar Weasel and Mini Fix models , may also fall under the NFA ’ s “ firearms ” category .
The letter explained how the ATF arrived at its conclusion .
TRENDING : ATF Reversal Immediately Puts Millions of Gun Owners in Danger of Prison Time “ The Honey Badger Pistol is equipped with a proprietary ‘ pistol stabilizing base ’ accessory made by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overall length of approximately 20-25 inches and a barrel length of approximately 7 inches , ” the letter said .
“ The objective design features of the Honey Badger firearm , configured with the subject stabilizing brace , indicate the firearm is designed and intended to be fired from the shoulder .
Since this firearm also contains a rifled barrel , it meets the definition of a ‘ rifle.
’ Further , since it has a barrel of less than 16 inches in length , it also meets the definition of a ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Control Act ] and the NFA.
” The agency ’ s declaration that Honey Badger Pistol is now classified as a “ short-barreled rifle ” means the gun is “ subject to the registration , transfer , taxation , and possession restrictions regarding these regulated firearms , which include criminal penalties relating to the illegal transfer and possession of said firearms.
” Penalties include prison sentences of up to 10 years and fines of up to $ 100,000 .
The ATF ordered Q to “ cease and desist all manufacture and transfer of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unless you properly register each firearm manufactured on an ATF Form 2 as required by the NFA , and file the appropriate ATF Form prior to the transfer.
” It also told the company to “ contact ATF to develop a plan for addressing those firearms already distributed ” and “ provide samples of the Sugar Weasel and the Mini Fix firearms to ATF for an official classification.
” So what does this all mean for gun owners ?
According to the Washington Free Beacon , “ industry insiders ” estimate there are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that are equipped with the specialized brace referred to by the ATF .
“ The new letter calls into question the basic legality of the devices and leaves gun owners in flux just three weeks before the presidential election , ” the outlet reported .
RELATED : As Australia Turns Into Police State , Owners of These Toy Guns Must Register or Surrender Them “ Carolyn Gwathmey , the public affairs officer for the ATF , said the letter only directly applies to the New Hampshire gun company ’ s pistol , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explanation for why that model differs from other weapons equipped with the braces.
” The decision thus has the potential to “ leave millions of American gun owners in serious legal jeopardy , ” the Free Beacon added .
But the ATF appears to have exceeded its authority .
Unsurprisingly , gun rights organizations are not happy , because this new order sounds dangerously like new legislation , something that falls well outside of the control of these unelected bureaucrats .
Only Congress has the power to pass new laws .
Activist groups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rein in the ATF , ” according to the Free Beacon .
National Rifle Association spokeswoman Amy Hunter told the outlet that NRA is “ exhausting all options to overturn this unjust and rogue action by ATF.
” In a statement , the NRA ’ s Institute for Legislative Action described this latest affront to our Second Amendment rights as “ arbitrary , inequitable , and incorrect.
” “ By blurring the lines on legal definitions that carry serious criminal consequences , ATF is putting law-abiding gun owners , the firearm industry , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of attempting to read the minds of ATF bureaucrats when complying with or applying federal law.
” The Firearms Policy Coalition also issued a statement about what looks like a clear case of overreach by a government agency .
“ ATF does not explain how it arrived at this conclusion other than vague generalizations that the firearm was ‘ designed ’ to be fired from the shoulder and by virtue of its barrel length meeting the definition of a SBR , ” the letter said .
“ There can be no question that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the enactment of laws , and that those laws must be within specific , limited , and enumerated powers , not left to bureaucrats who escape all aspects of responsibility .
Once more , we remind ATF and the executive branch that their authority has limits and that , if need be , they will once again be reminded of those limits through legal action.
” In the video below , the owner of a Honey Badger Pistol discusses how “ with the stroke of a pen , ” unelected ATF officials can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into felons .
Honey Badger Pistol owners , he said , can register their guns as short-barreled rifles in order to avoid running afoul of authorities , but they ’ ll need to pay a $ 200 fee .
( He noted that Q will refund owners that fee . )
Regulatory agencies have been pushing their limits for a decades .
And they will continue to do so until they are made to stop .
Acts of Congress should be what determines the legality of an object or act , not the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law is one thing , but changing course on the law ’ s interpretation is far too close to changing the law .
During his first presidential campaign , President Donald Trump promised to surround himself with only the best and the brightest people .
Naive to the ways of the Washington swamp , he didn ’ t realize the power and the will of career government bureaucrats to undermine his agenda or to sabotage the political groups they despise .
If he wins a second term , he is going to have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suppose he is painfully aware of that by now .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Gun manufacturer Q, LLC of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, received a cease-and-desist letter from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Boston Field Office this summer notifying the company that its popular “Honey Badger Pistol” is really a “firearm” as defined by the National Firearms Act.
Specifically, the ATF said it had “examined” the Honey Badger Pistol and determined it is actually a “short-barreled rifle” and therefore subject to the same regulations governing that class of firearms.
This decision has the potential to turn millions of previously law-abiding gun owners into criminals by decree.
The letter, dated Aug. 3 and made public last week, further informed Q that two additional products, the manufacturer’s Sugar Weasel and Mini Fix models, may also fall under the NFA’s “firearms” category.
The letter explained how the ATF arrived at its conclusion.
“The Honey Badger Pistol is equipped with a proprietary ‘pistol stabilizing base’ accessory made by SB Tactical. The firearm has an overall length of approximately 20-25 inches and a barrel length of approximately 7 inches,” the letter said.
“The objective design features of the Honey Badger firearm, configured with the subject stabilizing brace, indicate the firearm is designed and intended to be fired from the shoulder. Since this firearm also contains a rifled barrel, it meets the definition of a ‘rifle.’ Further, since it has a barrel of less than 16 inches in length, it also meets the definition of a ‘short-barreled rifle’ under the [Gun Control Act] and the NFA.”
The agency’s declaration that Honey Badger Pistol is now classified as a “short-barreled rifle” means the gun is “subject to the registration, transfer, taxation, and possession restrictions regarding these regulated firearms, which include criminal penalties relating to the illegal transfer and possession of said firearms.”
Penalties include prison sentences of up to 10 years and fines of up to $100,000.
Do unelected bureaucrats have too much power in America? Yes No
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The ATF ordered Q to “cease and desist all manufacture and transfer of the ‘Honey Badger Pistol’ firearm unless you properly register each firearm manufactured on an ATF Form 2 as required by the NFA, and file the appropriate ATF Form prior to the transfer.”
It also told the company to “contact ATF to develop a plan for addressing those firearms already distributed” and “provide samples of the Sugar Weasel and the Mini Fix firearms to ATF for an official classification.”
So what does this all mean for gun owners?
According to the Washington Free Beacon, “industry insiders” estimate there are about 3 million pistols in the country that are equipped with the specialized brace referred to by the ATF.
“The new letter calls into question the basic legality of the devices and leaves gun owners in flux just three weeks before the presidential election,” the outlet reported.
“Carolyn Gwathmey, the public affairs officer for the ATF, said the letter only directly applies to the New Hampshire gun company’s pistol, but neither she nor the letter offered an explanation for why that model differs from other weapons equipped with the braces.”
The decision thus has the potential to “leave millions of American gun owners in serious legal jeopardy,” the Free Beacon added.
But the ATF appears to have exceeded its authority.
Unsurprisingly, gun rights organizations are not happy, because this new order sounds dangerously like new legislation, something that falls well outside of the control of these unelected bureaucrats. Only Congress has the power to pass new laws.
Activist groups are now “pressuring the administration to rein in the ATF,” according to the Free Beacon.
National Rifle Association spokeswoman Amy Hunter told the outlet that NRA is “exhausting all options to overturn this unjust and rogue action by ATF.”
In a statement, the NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action described this latest affront to our Second Amendment rights as “arbitrary, inequitable, and incorrect.”
“By blurring the lines on legal definitions that carry serious criminal consequences, ATF is putting law-abiding gun owners, the firearm industry, and law enforcement in the impossible position of attempting to read the minds of ATF bureaucrats when complying with or applying federal law.”
The Firearms Policy Coalition also issued a statement about what looks like a clear case of overreach by a government agency.
“ATF does not explain how it arrived at this conclusion other than vague generalizations that the firearm was ‘designed’ to be fired from the shoulder and by virtue of its barrel length meeting the definition of a SBR,” the letter said.
“There can be no question that our Constitution requires accountability to coincide with the enactment of laws, and that those laws must be within specific, limited, and enumerated powers, not left to bureaucrats who escape all aspects of responsibility. Once more, we remind ATF and the executive branch that their authority has limits and that, if need be, they will once again be reminded of those limits through legal action.”
In the video below, the owner of a Honey Badger Pistol discusses how “with the stroke of a pen,” unelected ATF officials can potentially turn millions of once law-abiding citizens into felons.
Honey Badger Pistol owners, he said, can register their guns as short-barreled rifles in order to avoid running afoul of authorities, but they’ll need to pay a $200 fee. (He noted that Q will refund owners that fee.)
Regulatory agencies have been pushing their limits for a decades. And they will continue to do so until they are made to stop.
Acts of Congress should be what determines the legality of an object or act, not the whims of government bureaucrats. Enforcing the law is one thing, but changing course on the law’s interpretation is far too close to changing the law.
During his first presidential campaign, President Donald Trump promised to surround himself with only the best and the brightest people.
Naive to the ways of the Washington swamp, he didn’t realize the power and the will of career government bureaucrats to undermine his agenda or to sabotage the political groups they despise.
If he wins a second term, he is going to have to do a thorough housecleaning. I suppose he is painfully aware of that by now.
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--Democratic Mayor Admits to ‘Inappropriate’ Relationship with Reporter

The mayor of Anchorage , Alaska , issued an apology on Monday for what he said was a “ consensual , inappropriate messaging relationship ” with a local news anchor .
Democratic Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz , who is married , admitted to a relationship with KTBY and KYUR news anchor Maureen “ Maria ” Athens , according to a news release from his office .
“ I apologize to the people of Anchorage for a major lapse in judgment I made several years ago when I had a consensual , inappropriate messaging relationship with reporter Maria Athens , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ m embarrassed and ashamed for the hurt I ’ ve caused my family and our community .
I take responsibility for my actions.
” Athens reportedly posted a video to Facebook on Friday which she said was of the mayor , alongside allegations that he uploaded photos to an “ underage girl ’ s website.
” TRENDING : ATF Reversal Immediately Puts Millions of Gun Owners in Danger of Prison Time An FBI investigation cleared Berkowitz of criminal wrongdoing , and the mayor ’ s office released a statement calling Athens @ @ @ @ @ @ @ categorically false , ” according to the Daily News .
Berkowitz referred to Athens as “ hostile and unwell ” in the release .
After Berkowitz released his statement , Athens reportedly posted a nude photograph of him two times .
Athens was arrested the same day for allegedly punching her romantic partner .
The reporter also allegedly struck an officer and tried to kick her way out of a police cruiser .
Athens appeared before a judge on Saturday and screamed , “ I have pancreatitis !
” before she posted her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reported .
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website .
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Read our editorial standards .

The mayor of Anchorage, Alaska, issued an apology on Monday for what he said was a “consensual, inappropriate messaging relationship” with a local news anchor.
Democratic Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz, who is married, admitted to a relationship with KTBY and KYUR news anchor Maureen “Maria” Athens, according to a news release from his office.
“I apologize to the people of Anchorage for a major lapse in judgment I made several years ago when I had a consensual, inappropriate messaging relationship with reporter Maria Athens,” Berkowitz wrote in the statement.
“I’m embarrassed and ashamed for the hurt I’ve caused my family and our community. I take responsibility for my actions.”
Athens reportedly posted a video to Facebook on Friday which she said was of the mayor, alongside allegations that he uploaded photos to an “underage girl’s website.”
An FBI investigation cleared Berkowitz of criminal wrongdoing, and the mayor’s office released a statement calling Athens’ allegations “slanderous” and “categorically false,” according to the Daily News.
Berkowitz referred to Athens as “hostile and unwell” in the release.
After Berkowitz released his statement, Athens reportedly posted a nude photograph of him two times.
Do you think this scandal will affect Berkowitz's political career? Yes No
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Athens was arrested the same day for allegedly punching her romantic partner. The reporter also allegedly struck an officer and tried to kick her way out of a police cruiser.
Athens appeared before a judge on Saturday and screamed, “I have pancreatitis!” before she posted her $100 bond, the Daily News reported.
Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of their original content, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website.
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--Twitter Slapped with Big Punishment for Multiple Campaign Finance Violations

Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced Tuesday that Twitter will pay $ 100,000 in campaign finance disclosure violations for failing to maintain public inspection records about Washington political ads that ran on the platform from 2012 until Nov. 22 , 2019 , when political advertisements were banned from Twitter .
The judgment said at least 28 candidates and committees in the state reported paying $ 194,550 for political advertising on the platform since 2012 , but Twitter unlawfully failed to maintain the required record for the ads , according to the filing in King County Superior Court .
Washington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advertisers to collect and make available information on sources and payments of political advertisements .
“ Transparency in political advertising is critical to a free and informed electorate , ” Ferguson said in a news release .
“ Whether you are a local newspaper or a multinational social media platform , you must follow our campaign finance laws , ” he said .
TRENDING : ATF Reversal Immediately Puts Millions of Gun Owners in Danger of Prison Time An independent researcher notified the state Public Disclosure Commission about Twitter ’ s potential violations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ researcher had made requests for political advertisement payment records from 12 specific campaigns , but his request was not fulfilled for two months .
The case was referred to Ferguson on June 15 after the PDC determined Twitter may have violated the campaign finance laws .
Washington adopted its campaign finance disclosure law in 1972 .
“ The Public Disclosure Commission appreciates the shared commitment of the Attorney General ’ s Office to vigorous enforcement of the state ’ s campaign finance laws , ” Public Disclosure Commission Chairman David Ammons said in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the news release .
“ The people of Washington , in their overwhelming vote for the disclosure Initiative 276 nearly a half-century ago , created one of the nation ’ s most emphatic demands for transparency and accountability in campaign finance reporting.
” He added , “ As powerful new platforms and commercial advertisers emerge in the campaign world , we must stay vigilant in demanding full compliance with all disclosure laws of Washington state.
” The money recovered by Ferguson in campaign finance cases will be placed in the state ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Tuesday morning , the attorney general has garnered $ 2.3 million in campaign finance cases .
“ This resolution is reflective of our commitment to transparency and accountability , ” a Twitter representative said in a statement to Fox Business .
“ We ’ ll continue working to uphold our commitment to transparency and to protect the health of the online public conversation , especially ahead of the 2020 U.S. Election.
” This is not the first lawsuit Ferguson has resolved with social media companies for violating campaign finance laws .
In December @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Google and Facebook would each pay over $ 200,000 for failing to maintain political advertising records of ads placed on their platforms since 2013 .
Ferguson filed a second lawsuit against Facebook in April for selling state political ads without maintaining the legally required information .
The complaint alleges that Facebook intentionally violated the state ’ s campaign finance disclosure law .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced Tuesday that Twitter will pay $100,000 in campaign finance disclosure violations for failing to maintain public inspection records about Washington political ads that ran on the platform from 2012 until Nov. 22, 2019, when political advertisements were banned from Twitter.
The judgment said at least 28 candidates and committees in the state reported paying $194,550 for political advertising on the platform since 2012, but Twitter unlawfully failed to maintain the required record for the ads, according to the filing in King County Superior Court.
Washington’s campaign finance law requires commercial advertisers to collect and make available information on sources and payments of political advertisements.
“Transparency in political advertising is critical to a free and informed electorate,” Ferguson said in a news release.
“Whether you are a local newspaper or a multinational social media platform, you must follow our campaign finance laws,” he said.
An independent researcher notified the state Public Disclosure Commission about Twitter’s potential violations on Oct. 30, 2019.
The researcher had made requests for political advertisement payment records from 12 specific campaigns, but his request was not fulfilled for two months.
The case was referred to Ferguson on June 15 after the PDC determined Twitter may have violated the campaign finance laws.
Washington adopted its campaign finance disclosure law in 1972.
Do you think political advertisements should be allowed on social media platforms? Yes No
Completing this poll entitles you to The Western Journal news updates free of charge. You may opt out at anytime. You also agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use Yes: 34% (100 Votes) No: 66% (190 Votes)
“The Public Disclosure Commission appreciates the shared commitment of the Attorney General’s Office to vigorous enforcement of the state’s campaign finance laws,” Public Disclosure Commission Chairman David Ammons said in response to the ruling, according to the news release.
“The people of Washington, in their overwhelming vote for the disclosure Initiative 276 nearly a half-century ago, created one of the nation’s most emphatic demands for transparency and accountability in campaign finance reporting.”
He added, “As powerful new platforms and commercial advertisers emerge in the campaign world, we must stay vigilant in demanding full compliance with all disclosure laws of Washington state.”
The money recovered by Ferguson in campaign finance cases will be placed in the state’s Public Disclosure Transparency Account. As of Tuesday morning, the attorney general has garnered $2.3 million in campaign finance cases.
“This resolution is reflective of our commitment to transparency and accountability,” a Twitter representative said in a statement to Fox Business. “We’ll continue working to uphold our commitment to transparency and to protect the health of the online public conversation, especially ahead of the 2020 U.S. Election.”
This is not the first lawsuit Ferguson has resolved with social media companies for violating campaign finance laws.
In December 2018, the attorney general announced that Google and Facebook would each pay over $200,000 for failing to maintain political advertising records of ads placed on their platforms since 2013.
Ferguson filed a second lawsuit against Facebook in April for selling state political ads without maintaining the legally required information.
The complaint alleges that Facebook intentionally violated the state’s campaign finance disclosure law.
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westernjournal--2020-10-13--Woman Snaps Photo After She Says Customers Stepped Up To Help Understaffed Restaurant

Having employees not show up for their shifts always throws a wrench in the works for small businesses , and nowhere is that more true than in the food industry .
For Thai Food Huntly in Huntly , New Zealand , Thursday was a very stressful day .
The small Thai restaurant was packed with dine-in customers and had a line of people waiting to pick up their take-out .
The problem ?
There was only one person on deck .
Thankfully , he was the chef , so food was being made — but not much else was getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , witnessed both the stress the chef was experiencing and the beautiful act of kindness that resulted .
“ So we went to our favorite Thai food place in Huntly to find out it was packed , ” she shared early Friday .
“ The tables were filled , people lined up waiting to pay , to order or to pick up.
” TRENDING : ATF Reversal Immediately Puts Millions of Gun Owners in Danger of Prison Time “ The chef was by himself cooking so he couldn ’ t wait the tables @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out that his staff didn ’ t turn up.
” “ So when the customers found out about it , the lady waiting to pay started waiting tables for him , and the other lady that works at the real estate shop beside the Thai place , worked the register with his permission and also waited tables.
” “ We could easily feel the sense of community all around the place .
Frowns turned to smiles and grumpy waiting turned to patiently waiting .
It was beautiful to witness .
What an awesome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people commented to say how characteristic of Huntly the friendly help was and how heartwarming it was to see even paying customers pitch in to help the overtaxed chef .
“ We apologize for the inconvenience today , ” Thai Food Huntly later posted on Facebook .
“ All of our staff apart from the chef couldn ’ t come in today due to family emergency.
” “ So at the moment , it ’ s only 1 man for all the jobs .
We are trying our best to get to your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bare with us.
” Another staff member also commented on Puhi ’ s post , explaining why she hadn ’ t been there .
RELATED : Woman Dubbed 'Superhero ' After Finishing Bar Exam from Hospital Day After Giving Birth “ This is amazing to see !
” Kiara Leef wrote .
“ On behalf of the staff we apologise for not being able to be there and work.
” “ I personally love my job and love Wood and although it wasn ’ t my rostered day I should ’ ve tried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to all … us staff will communicate better from now on.
” It would have been easy — and typical — for the customers to grouse and leave bad reviews without lifting a finger to help , but instead , this community ’ s spirit bound them together and turned a stressful evening into a productive and encouraging one .
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism .
Read our editorial standards .

Having employees not show up for their shifts always throws a wrench in the works for small businesses, and nowhere is that more true than in the food industry.
For Thai Food Huntly in Huntly, New Zealand, Thursday was a very stressful day. The small Thai restaurant was packed with dine-in customers and had a line of people waiting to pick up their take-out.
The problem? There was only one person on deck. Thankfully, he was the chef, so food was being made — but not much else was getting done.
One customer, Emily Puhi, witnessed both the stress the chef was experiencing and the beautiful act of kindness that resulted.
“So we went to our favorite Thai food place in Huntly to find out it was packed,” she shared early Friday. “The tables were filled, people lined up waiting to pay, to order or to pick up.”
“The chef was by himself cooking so he couldn’t wait the tables and be at the counter. Found out that his staff didn’t turn up.”
“So when the customers found out about it, the lady waiting to pay started waiting tables for him, and the other lady that works at the real estate shop beside the Thai place, worked the register with his permission and also waited tables.”
“We could easily feel the sense of community all around the place. Frowns turned to smiles and grumpy waiting turned to patiently waiting. It was beautiful to witness. What an awesome place to live in.”
Plenty of people commented to say how characteristic of Huntly the friendly help was and how heartwarming it was to see even paying customers pitch in to help the overtaxed chef.
“We apologize for the inconvenience today,” Thai Food Huntly later posted on Facebook. “All of our staff apart from the chef couldn’t come in today due to family emergency.”
“So at the moment, it’s only 1 man for all the jobs. We are trying our best to get to your order as fast as possible, please bare with us.”
Another staff member also commented on Puhi’s post, explaining why she hadn’t been there.
“This is amazing to see!” Kiara Leef wrote. “On behalf of the staff we apologise for not being able to be there and work.”
“I personally love my job and love Wood and although it wasn’t my rostered day I should’ve tried to find a way there. Apologies to all … us staff will communicate better from now on.”
It would have been easy — and typical — for the customers to grouse and leave bad reviews without lifting a finger to help, but instead, this community’s spirit bound them together and turned a stressful evening into a productive and encouraging one.
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