Linda Walker, Buckeye Firearms Association
Central Ohio Chair, addresses the crowd.

By Linda Walker

Ohio Liberty Council sponsored the first-ever statewide Tea Party at the Ohio Statehouse in downtown Columbus on Saturday, August 1. Between eight and ten thousand people attended this massive, well-thought out, well-organized event.

TEA (Taxed Enough Already) Parties have popped up all over the country since the federal government has been stimulating our economy with trillions of "The People's" tax dollars. The People are taking a stand against all of the tax and spending increases, and other losses of freedom, that are currently running rampant with our Congress and the President.

After a short rain prior to the event, it turned out to be a beautiful day for the rally. Several speakers talked about the Tenth Amendment and Sovereignty of the States Resolution, which were the main focus of the Tea Party. The featured speaker was "The Judge", Andrew Napolitano, a popular Fox News contributor. He received a great response from the audience.

NEWTOWN, Conn. -- During a time period of great economic uncertainty, firearm and ammunition sales have continued to increase throughout the country.

According to the most recent Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax Collection Report, released earlier today by the Department of the Treasury, firearm and ammunition manufacturers paid more than $109.8 million in the first calendar quarter of 2009; up 43% over the same time period reported in 2008.

This dramatic increase follows a 31.3 percent increase in excise taxes from the previous quarter (4Q, 2008) and eight straight months of increased FBI background checks – another strong indicator of firearm sales.