Obama Gun Control Policy Triggers Massive Outcry From Guns-Rights Supporters

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In response to the outcry following the Sandy Hook Elementary School killings on the heels of several other incidences of gun violence in schools and public arenas, the Obama administration unveiled a substantial proposal to address the issue of gun violence in America, triggering objections from guns-rights supporters, but gaining the support of millions of American citizens.  The President’s proposal has four principal components:

  • Law enforcement.
  • The availability of dangerous firearms and ammunition.
  • School safety.
  • Mental health.

To effectively impact all four of the principal elements of the sweeping proposal, President Obama made the following recommendations:

  • Requiring criminal background checks for all gun sales.
  • Reinstating the assault weapons ban.
  • Restoring a 10-round ammunition limit in magazines.
  • Eliminating armor-piercing bullets.
  • Providing mental health services in schools.
  • Allocating funds to hire more police officers.
  • Instituting a federal gun trafficking statute.

Many political observers and gun lobbyists are voicing complaints about the massive effort to address the gun violence problem, which is leaving a huge black mark on our society today.  Complaints range from disagreement with the attempt at such a massive overhaul of the current ineffective gun regulations to outcries of political overreach by the current administration and violation of citizens’ second Amendment rights to bear arms.

It appears that some key points are being overlooked here.  The level of gun violence should send a distress signal to each and every one of us in this nation, particularly when we peel back the layers of each past instance and see the consistent pattern of mental illness, social maladjustment, bullying, etc., all toxic ingredients woven into the fabric of this ridiculous mayhem.  This is an awful testament to any society, let alone one such as ours, which consistently touts our civility, intelligence, Christian values, and sense of humanity.  We consistently show pride for our liberty and rights, as we should; however, we need to stop and consider the rights of others to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.  Surely any parent who sends their children to school or to a public place, such as a shopping center or a movie, should have the reasonable expectation that their children will return to them.  Acknowledging this right and working to enforce it will not take away from the rights of law-abiding citizens who want to own weapons, not by any means, and that is not the intent of any gun legislation.  If done the right way, gun owners will still have their guns, if they are legally entitled to do so.

In the height of the emotion and standoff over the proposed gun regulations, we need to stop and think.  The families of Sandy Hook Elementary School, as well as the Giffords and other families who were affected by mass killings have taken this opportunity to stand together for a safer world from gun violence at a time that is anything but convenient for them as their wounds and hurt are so raw and real.  It is awful, an abomination, that we declare our rights to take up arms so loudly because of potential possibilities of aggression that may or may not happen when these wonderful people are speaking up trying to convey the message of the reality of gun violence, a stark and dismal reality for them that will haunt them for the remainder of their lives and a reality that they are trying to prevent the rest of us from every experiencing.  Why can’t we listen–  “Be still and know.” (Psalm 46:10).

It was poignant to see the nation rally and support the communities that have suffered horrible attacks of gun violence.  Now let’s really help by working to save America’s children.  We can put an end to the senseless acts of violence going on in America today.  As the victims of these tragedies reach out to our legislators and communities to solve the issue of gun violence and its impact on the American family, let’s listen and accept the message that this has to stop.  To do so is to protect our family and definitely is a great way to live green, be green.

Sources for this article:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/16/obama-gun-control-proposals_n_2486919.html?icid=maing-grid7%7Cipad%7Cdl1%7Csec1_lnk2%26pLid%3D258011

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Ecological Surveys?

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What is an Ecological Survey?

 

An ecological survey, commonly dubbed an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), is an evaluation of the possible outcome (both positive and negative) that any proposed project is likely to impose to the environment. These impacts are not only viewed in relation to the environment, but also in regard to their social and economic outlook. These reports are very essential especially when establishing new structures or projects, and must be presented to the local authorities for approval. They, the local authorities, with regard to the report presented to them, can either decide to abort or approve projects on the basis of their impacts. If your projects do more harm than good to the environment, then they are more likely to be rejected by the local authorities.

 

What are the common types of Ecological Surveys Available?

 

Ecological surveys are carried out by well-established Arboricultural and Ecology Consultancies, and mainly provide information on both the botanical and zoological aspects. For example, they provide information regarding the welfare of animals living in certain habitats. Is your project endangering or threatening their lives (animals)? Is it going to benefit them in anyway? Or is it going to deplete the natural resources available hence making them migrate? Some of the common ecological surveys conducted include:

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Protected Species Surveys-Protected species surveys are studies aimed at ensuring the wellbeing of certain protected animal species. Therefore, reports released (after conducting protected species surveys) mainly provide information regarding to whether certain species of animals are present in those particular habitats or not. For example, the report will highlight whether bats, lizards, owls, Newts or badgers are present or not. And if not, what mainly caused their absence?

 

Protected Tree Surveys-These are surveys conducted to establish the impacts of designing new projects especially to trees. Such surveys mostly put into consideration the welfare of trees as well as other animals depending on these trees as their natural habitat. Are the new projects going to permanently deplete tree cover? If they are, how will it affect the wellbeing of other animals living in such habitats? Are there any socio-economic related outcomes?

 

Marine Surveys-These types of surveys are in most cases related to marine life. They aim at investigating and if possible alleviating the probable effects of establishing projects with regard to marine life. For example, the study will assess the pros and cons of establishing a project maybe to fish or sea whales, the risks involved and maybe the strategies that are likely to be used to avert such risks.

 

For more information on how to conduct Tree, Bat and Habitat surveys check http://www.arbtech.co.uk/ for more and detailed information.