Sorry, but I really need to contribute my $0.02 to this one.
I'm always fascinated at how many folks that have little to no knowledge about firearms and their history have very firm opinions about their efficacy in stopping crime.
JG, you're right ... that woman is Dr. Suzanna Gratia Hupp
http://www.house.state.tx.us/members/dist54/hupp.htm, and she was very instrumental in helping to pass the concealed carry law in TX.
For those who pooh-pooh the ability of private citizens to defend themselves and innocent others, consider the other perspective, and facts ... Robert Waters has a very enlightening book:
http://tinyurl.com/cd2n8. Watch your local paper for such stories ... they are always buried deep inside, if reported at all. The authorities don't like the competition ... or the reminder that in spite of best intentions and efforts, they usually get there in time to draw the chalk lines, not stop the violence.
And, even if you don't like guns or see a reason for them ... consider taking a firearms training course ... concealed carry, shotgun, rifle, etc. You'll find out there is much, much more to the issue and sport than the impressions you receive from the media.
Lastly, consider this ... on 9/11 there was only one group that successfully defended us against terrorists ... that was the passengers on Flight 93 (movies coming out ... e.g. I believe A&E on 9/11/05). In NOLA, note the story about the young man who got tired of waiting for government help, and commandeered a school bus, saving over 70 people.
This forum, more than any other, seems dedicated to the idea of self sufficiency, taking responsibility for one's self and family, planning for the future, and using intellect instead of raw emotion. Not a place where I would expect knee-jerk acceptance of the anti-self defense nonsense.
For more discussion on the topic, and your opportunity to engage in intelligent discussion of the issue, check out
www.thehighroad.org.
Are "guns the answer"? No, civility, decency, good parenting, community self-help, a good criminal justice system and many other things are part of the answer. But if the sight of NOLA, and the LA riots in the 90's don't make it clear that your own ability to defend yourself and your family are critical, then I don't know what to say.
Just don't interfere in the ability of other Americans to own and use firearms to defend themselves and their families ... because when citizens do that,
they become the violent offenders who endanger those of us who simply want to live in peace and safety.
Best regards
EDIT: Reduced length of URL