Bloomberg Gun Giveaway Draws Supporters, Protesters

A government building, normally quiet, was packed with openly armed firearms enthusiasts that were there in hopes of winning a pistol or rifle, according to the Associated Press.

They also were there to send a defiant message to gun-control advocates, and especially the Mayor of New York, Michael Bloomberg. Bloomberg has accused some shops of the town in the past of allowing purchases to be made illegally of weapons that were later used in crimes against his city. More than two dozen shops including six in the state of Virginia have had federal lawsuits held against them. Thursday night's "Bloomberg Gun Giveaway" was organized by The Virginia Citizens Defense League, a group that fights for gun-rights.

A Varmit Stalker rifle and a Para-Ordnance pistol were the two guns that were awarded on Thursday. Each gun is valued at around $900. The two winners were not allowed to immediately take possession of the firearms, due to having to still undergo both state and federal background checks.

Jay Minsky, one of the winners, was asked what kind of message he hoped to send to Bloomberg. Responding with an obscene gesture, he said, "If he doesn't like people in New York having guns, he should deal with New York. Just keep out of Virginia," according to the Associated Press.

About 200 people showed up for the event at the Fairfax County building, although a fire Marshall was on hand to enforce the occupancy limit of 150. Some people had to stay outside, many peering through windows.

Some county officials opposed the meeting but agreed that they could not stop them because it is a community meeting room, and they are allowed their political views, This gun-rights group has met in this building many times over the years.

Some parents from last's months Virginia Tech shooting were on hand to protest the meeting. Cathy and Peter Read were among them. Their daughter Mary was one of the ones who were killed in that shooting.