George,

I am a brand new Virginia resident, but an old time Democratic activist. Just moved here a couple of weeks ago and just discovered your site today, on recommendation of Al Weed, a neighbor.

I volunteered at the polls on Tuesday in Nelson County, and witnessed a "Gun at the polls" incident which got me thinking. I was surprised to hear from your site that there are no restrictions. A large white guy with a large black automatic on his hip stood, with his muscled arms crossed, at the entrance of our polling place (Faber) for about 45 minutes AFTER he'd voted. Several people did a double take at the sight of the weapon.

I asked the election supervisor to ask the man to move away from the door or to conceal his weapon, but no action was taken. I have submitted an incident report to the state Dem party, but it sounds like this is allowed. Hmmmmm.....

Anyway... a timely article, from my perspective. Look forward to meeting you some day.

Best wishes,

John Byrne (electronic mail, November 7, 2001).