GATOR NATION RESPONDS TO CRAZY TOWN HALL MEETINGS

[For those who believe carrying handguns to town hall meetings, political rallies and other public events is acceptable, this article shows where such thinking can lead.]

The over-the-top conduct of gun carrying citizens at town hall meetings where Present Obama was present is apparently drawing a sharp response from the University of Florida. Bernie Machen, university president, announced today that properly permitted Gator fans will be allowed to wear their handguns at future Florida football home games so long as holstered and worn outside of their clothing.

Image by adobemac via Flickr

Asked if the new policy is related to the recent incidences of gun-toting by citizens attending town hall meetings and politicall rallies, Machen didn't directly respond. He did say, however, "All Americans have Second Amendment rights and, so long as a fan can provide concrete proof that he or she is a graduate of this university, they will be allowed to wear their firearms at future home games." 

Machen said he could not state with certainty that gun carrying fans will be allowed to into the Gators' next home game October 17th against the Arkansas Razorbacks.

 A gun permit will be issued only after an application to the Dean of Admissions verifies that the request has been made by a bona fide graduate of the university. Application forms will be available on the internet.

“A delay in processing applications may prevent some fans from entering the stadium wearing guns at the Arkansas game,” Machen said.

He did state, however, that fans who have not received their permits, may still bring their firearms to Florida Field, but that they will have to check them in at the Gator Gun & Ammo Shop located on the first floor on the north side of the stadium.

Image by Getty Images via Daylife

Anyone caught “packing” inside the stadium will be immediately ejected from the game. President Machen emphasized that Alachua County sheriff’s deputies and city of Gainesville police officers will be on hand to randomly pat down individuals and escort them to exits if they are found to be violating the rules. “This step is necessary to maintain the safety of all our fans,” he said.

Asked when the permitting process would be completed, Machen said he estimates that all permits will be issued by November 28th, the date the Gators will host the Florida State Seminoles.