Gregory Kielma • October 31, 2023
DeSoto Square Mall: The Bradenton, FL Mall That Time Forgot…Maybe? NAW!!!!
DeSoto Square Mall: The Bradenton, FL Mall That Time Forgot…Maybe?
Author Spencer Walsh
October 29, 2023
The Birth of DeSoto Square Mall: A New Dawn in Bradenton
In 1973, people sought exciting places to spend their hard-earned money. That’s when DeSoto Square Mall burst onto the scene in Bradenton, FL, thanks to the ingenuity of the Edward J. DeBartolo Corporation.
Initially, the mall was slated to go by Bradenton Mall. However, city officials had reservations about that name since the mall wasn’t actually within the city limits.
So, the company pivoted and rechristened it as DeSoto Square Mall. A savvy move that not only resolved the geographical issue but also added a dash of sophistication, don’t you think?
The name change from Bradenton Mall to DeSoto Square Mall was a strategic move to give the mall a unique identity.
The mall opened with anchor stores like JCPenney, Sears, and Maas Brothers. These were the big players back in the day.
Imagine walking into the mall and being greeted by the smell of fresh popcorn and the sound of laughter. It was the place to be, and it felt like a new world had opened up in Bradenton.
Moving on, the mall wasn’t just a shopping center; it was a social hub. Teenagers would hang out at the arcade while adults found solace in the various boutiques and department stores. It was a win-win for everyone.
Additionally, the mall’s strategic location at 303 301 Boulevard West made it easily accessible. You could hop off the freeway, shop, and return to the road quickly. Convenience was the name of the game.
In contrast to today’s digital age, the mall was a testament to the era of physical retail. It was a time when people enjoyed going out to shop. Ah, those were the days!
The Golden Years and Celebrity Visits: When DeSoto Square Mall Was the Star
Fast forward a few years, and the mall was thriving. It was the late ’70s, and DeSoto Square Mall was the place to be.
Even Ronald Reagan couldn’t resist its charm. That’s right, the future President of the United States visited the mall in 1976. Talk about star power!
Now, let’s talk about expansion. In 1978, the mall decided it was time to grow. The Suncoast Motel was demolished to make way for additional parking facilities. Because when you’re popular, you need room for all your fans, right?
In the years that followed, the mall continued to be a bustling hub of activity. Families would spend their weekends exploring the stores, dining at the food court, and participating in seasonal events. It was a wondrous time, and the mall was at the center of it all.
So, why was DeSoto Square Mall so special? It wasn’t just the stores or the food court; it was the experience.
The mall had a way of making you feel like you were part of something bigger. It was a community gathering spot, a place where memories were made.
DeSoto Square Mall was more than a shopping center; it was a cornerstone of the community.
Changes in Retail Landscape: The Winds of Change at DeSoto Square Mall
The ’80s and ’90s brought new challenges and opportunities for DeSoto Square Mall. New stores like Belk-Lindsey in 1979 and Burdines in 1991 debuted, adding to the mall’s allure. But that’s not all.
The late ’80s saw talks about adding a food court. Finally, in April 1997, the Port O’Call food court opened its doors.
Moving on, the new millennium brought its own set of changes. Old Navy joined the mall in 2000, and Burdines rebranded to Macy’s in 2004. The mall was adapting, evolving, and doing its best to keep up with the times.
If you were looking for things to do in Bradenton, Florida, the mall was still a top choice. It was a one-stop shop for all your needs. From shopping and dining to entertainment, DeSoto Square Mall had it all.
In contrast, the retail landscape was changing rapidly. Online shopping was becoming more popular, and malls nationwide felt the heat. DeSoto Square Mall was no exception.
It was a challenging time, but the mall soldiered on, adapting and evolving to meet the needs of a new generation.
The Impact of Economic Downturns: When the Tide Turned for DeSoto Square Mall
Ah, the Great Recession of 2008. It was a tough time for many, and DeSoto Square Mall was no exception. In 2009, several stores closed (Dillard’s, Old Navy, Waldenbooks, and Foot Locker), leaving empty spaces and a sense of loss.
But wait, there’s a silver lining! The space formerly occupied by Old Navy transformed into Saturn 5, a family entertainment center, in 2010. Talk about making lemonade out of lemons!
The transformation of Old Navy’s space into Saturn 5 was a creative way to utilize vacant retail space.
Moving on, the mall faced another challenge in May 2012 when Simon Property Group announced plans to sell it. The mall was changing hands, and uncertainty loomed large.
But as they say, when one door closes, another opens. Mason Asset Management swooped in and acquired the property in November 2012 for a cool $25 million.
In a series of blows to DeSoto Square Mall, Macy’s shuttered its doors in July 2014 to move to the Mall at University Town Center, followed by the theater’s closure a month later.
Sears Holdings spun off 235 properties, including its DeSoto Square Mall location, into a separate entity called Seritage Growth Properties in 2015 but closed in October 2018.
Additionally, the new owners had plans to revitalize the mall, but the financial struggles were far from over. In contrast to its golden years, the mall was a shadow of its former self. Yet, it held a certain nostalgic charm for those who remembered its heyday. It was a bittersweet reminder of times gone by.
Ownership Changes and Financial Struggles: The Rollercoaster Ride of DeSoto Square Mall
Ah, the world of business is never straightforward, is it? DeSoto Square Mall experienced its fair share of ups and downs regarding ownership.
Mason Asset Management took the reins in November 2012, shelling out $25 million for the property. You’d think with new ownership, the mall would get a fresh start, right? Well, not exactly.
New ownership doesn’t always mean a fresh start; sometimes, it’s just a change of hands in an ongoing struggle.
The mall was already grappling with financial issues, and Mason Asset Management had a tough road ahead. They had plans, they had visions, but what they didn’t have was a magic wand.
Additionally, let’s talk about bankruptcy. In a twist worthy of a daytime drama, Romspen US Master Mortgage LP finally took over the property through an online bankruptcy auction in October 2021.
Why? DeSoto Owners LLC couldn’t keep up with a loan ballooning to $21 million. Adding another layer to this intricate tale, Meyer Lebovitz, owner of DeSoto Owners LLC, had initially bought the property from Mason Asset in April 2017 for a staggering $25,500,000.
If you find it hard to keep up, you’re in good company. The ownership saga of the mall is as tangled as any TV melodrama.
The mall’s complex ownership history is a testament to its financial struggles and the challenges of retail in the modern age.
In contrast to the mall’s early years, when it was a bustling hub of activity, these ownership changes and financial struggles painted a picture of instability.
Moving on, despite the financial hurdles, the mall trudged along. It was like a fighter refusing to throw in the towel. But as we all know, every story has an ending, and DeSoto Square Mall was no exception.
The Final Chapter and Closure: The Sun Sets on DeSoto Square Mall
Fast forward to April 29, 2021, and the inevitable happened. DeSoto Square Mall closed its doors, leaving behind only four operating stores. It was the end of an era, and the mall that had once been a bustling hub of activity was now silent.
The closure of DeSoto Square Mall was not just the end of a shopping center, but the end of a community landmark.
DeSoto Owners LLC, the company that owned the mall, made attempts to restructure its finances. However, the mall had reached a point of no return. It was time to say goodbye.
So, what was it like on that final day? Imagine walking through the empty corridors, past closed stores and vacant spaces. It was like walking through a ghost town, a place frozen in time. Yet, the memories remained, etched in the walls and the hearts of those who had spent their days there.
Moving on, the mall’s closure left a void in the community. It was more than a place to shop; it was a place where friendships were made, where families came together, and where memories were created. And now, it was gone.
What Lies Ahead for DeSoto Square Mall: A Phoenix Rising from the Ashes?
But don’t lose hope just yet! CRJ Bradenton LLC purchased the DeSoto Square Mall property for $25.7 million in May 2022 and has big plans for its future.
Imagine luxury apartments, mixed-use spaces, and a whole new vibe. The property is set to be redeveloped into smaller 8 or 10-acre parcels, adding a fresh lease of life to the 58-acre area.
Additionally, the new owners have been working on a master plan to transform the property into an exciting mixed-use village. They’re even addressing some historic stormwater challenges in partnership with the county. So, it’s not just about buildings; it’s about creating a sustainable future.
In contrast to its past struggles, the future looks promising for the DeSoto Square Mall property. The first phase of redevelopment includes 300 residential units. So, if you’re wondering what’s next for this iconic landmark, let’s say it’s gearing up for a second act.
Red flags in gun shops: Phrases that signal you should walk away Gregg Kielma Walking into a gun shop should feel professional, transparent, and safety focused. Responsible dealers understand that firearms are serious tools that require knowledge, proper handling, and honest communication. Unfortunately, not every shop follows the same standards. Some rely on aggressive sales tactics, vague claims, or misleading advice to push a purchase. In many cases, the warning signs appear in the words a salesperson uses. Certain phrases can reveal poor knowledge, unsafe attitudes, or even questionable business practices. Recognizing these red flags can help you avoid buying unreliable equipment or receiving bad guidance. Paying attention to what staff members say and how they say it can tell you a lot about whether a shop deserves your trust. Everyone Buys This One. You Don’t Need to Research It A trustworthy gun dealer encourages customers to research, compare options, and choose what fits their needs. When a salesperson insists that “everyone buys this one,” it can be a sign they are more focused on making a quick sale than providing useful advice. Firearms vary widely in size, recoil, ergonomics, and purpose. What works well for one person may be uncomfortable or impractical for another. A responsible shop will ask questions about your experience level, intended use, and preferences before recommending a product. When staff dismiss the importance of research or push a single model as the obvious choice, it suggests limited expertise or an attempt to move inventory rather than guide customers toward the best decision. This Gun Never Has Problems No mechanical device is completely free from the possibility of malfunction. Firearms, like any complex equipment, require maintenance and responsible use. When a salesperson claims that a particular gun “never has problems,” it should raise immediate suspicion. Honest dealers usually discuss both the strengths and limitations of a product. They may mention reliability, but they also acknowledge that regular cleaning, proper ammunition, and safe handling are essential. Absolute statements often indicate exaggeration or a lack of technical understanding. A knowledgeable professional will explain realistic expectations and maintenance requirements instead of promising perfection. If someone dismisses all potential issues, it may suggest they are prioritizing sales over providing accurate information. You Don’t Need Training to Use This Any firearm requires a basic level of training and safety awareness. When a shop employee suggests that a gun can be used safely without proper instruction, it reflects a concerning attitude toward responsibility. Firearms demand careful handling, familiarity with safety rules, and an understanding of local laws. Ethical dealers often encourage first-time buyers to take safety courses or spend time at a shooting range before relying on a firearm. They may even recommend professional instruction. Dismissing the need for training sends the message that the shop values convenience over safety. A reputable store understands that informed owners are safer owners, and it should actively support education rather than minimizing its importance. The Laws Don’t Really Matter Here. Any suggestion that firearm laws are unimportant or easily ignored should be treated as a major warning sign. Responsible gun shops operate with strict attention to regulations, background checks, and documentation requirements. When someone casually dismisses these rules, it may indicate questionable business practices or a lack of respect for legal responsibilities. Firearm laws exist to promote safety and accountability, and legitimate dealers take them seriously. A trustworthy salesperson will clearly explain the legal process involved in purchasing and owning a firearm. If an employee implies that regulations are optional or suggests shortcuts, it is wise to leave immediately. Shops that disregard the law can place customers in serious legal trouble. You Won’t Find a Better Price Anywhere Competitive pricing is common in the firearms market, but absolute claims about unbeatable deals should be approached with caution. When a salesperson insists that you will not find a better price anywhere, it may be an attempt to pressure you into buying quickly without comparing options. Reliable dealers understand that informed customers often check multiple sources before making a purchase. They may explain why their price is competitive, or highlight included services such as warranties or support. However, they rarely discourage customers from doing their own research. High-pressure pricing tactics can indicate insecurity about the product or a desire to close the sale before the buyer has time to think carefully. You Don’t Need to Handle It First Comfort and fit are critical when choosing a firearm. A responsible shop allows customers to safely handle a firearm following proper safety procedures so they can evaluate its grip, weight, and balance. If a salesperson discourages this step or claims it is unnecessary, it suggests a lack of concern for customer experience. Firearms that feel awkward or poorly balanced in the hand may be difficult to control or use confidently. Knowledgeable dealers encourage buyers to handle multiple options to find the best fit. Preventing customers from doing so can signal impatience, poor service, or even an attempt to hide flaws in the product being sold. Maintenance Is Basically Unnecessary Firearms require regular maintenance to remain reliable and safe. Cleaning, proper lubrication, and periodic inspection help prevent malfunctions and extend the life of the equipment. When a salesperson claims that maintenance is unnecessary or minimal, it often reflects misinformation. Experienced gun owners know that even high-quality firearms need care after regular use. Dust, residue from ammunition, and environmental factors can affect performance over time. Responsible dealers usually explain basic maintenance routines and may even recommend cleaning supplies or instructional resources. Downplaying the importance of upkeep suggests either a lack of technical knowledge or an attempt to simplify the purchase conversation at the expense of accuracy. This Is the Only Gun You’ll Ever Need Firearms serve many different purposes, from sport shooting to hunting to personal protection. Because of these varied uses, no single model can truly meet every possible need. When a salesperson insists that one firearm is the only one a person will ever need, it can signal oversimplified sales tactics. A knowledgeable dealer typically discusses how different firearms perform in different situations. They may explain why certain models are better suited for specific tasks or user preferences. Claiming that one option solves every scenario ignores the complexity of firearm design and personal comfort. Such statements often reveal marketing language rather than genuine expertise. Trust Me, You Don’t Need the Details Transparency is a hallmark of a reputable gun shop. Customers should feel comfortable asking questions about specifications, safety features, warranties, and the manufacturer’s reputation. When a salesperson discourages questions or suggests that details are unnecessary, it undermines trust. Firearm purchases involve significant responsibility, and buyers deserve complete information before deciding. Knowledgeable staff members typically enjoy explaining how a firearm works and what makes it suitable for certain uses. Dismissing questions may indicate impatience, limited knowledge, or a desire to avoid discussing weaknesses. If a dealer avoids providing clear information, it is often a sign that you would be better off purchasing from a more transparent retailer.
Backstop 75' Across Will Accommodate 8 Shooters 150 Yard Outdoor Range Built for Real Training Gregg Kielma Opening my new 150 yard outdoor range marks an important step forward for Tactical K Training and Firearms and for every student who trains with me. This private range was built with a single purpose in mind: to give shooters a safe, private, and realistic environment where they can grow their skills with confidence. Set on quiet farm pasture in Parrish Florida, the range offers the kind of space and calm you simply can’t get at crowded public facilities. The open terrain, natural backstops, and controlled layout allow for true practical instruction—from foundational marksmanship to more advanced drills that require distance, movement, and real-world context. At 150 yards, the range supports everything from handgun fundamentals to rifle zeroing, precision work, and defensive carbine training. Students can finally experience what proper distance feels like, how their equipment performs, and how to apply solid technique under guidance rather than guesswork. Safety remains the backbone of everything we do. Every session is structured, supervised, and tailored to the individual. Whether someone is brand new or sharpening advanced skills, they get focused instruction without distractions, noise, or pressure from other shooters. It’s a place where learning is personal, calm, and effective. This new range isn’t just more space—it’s a better training experience. It reflects the values Tactical K Training and Firearms was built on: responsible ownership, practical skill development, and a commitment to helping people feel capable and prepared. Gregg Kielma
Gun Store Owner Indicted for Conspiracy and Attempting to Provide Material Support to Designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations Wednesday, March 25, 2026 U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Arizona PHOENIX, Ariz. – The owner of Grips By Larry, a former federal firearms licensee (FFL) was indicted last week on charges related to providing material support to Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (“CJNG”) and Cartel de Sinaloa (“CDS”), Mexican cartels that were designated as foreign terrorist organizations in 2025. On March 17, 2026, a federal grand jury in Phoenix returned a superseding indictment against Laurence Gray, 65, of Hereford, Arizona, for Attempting to Provide Material Support to a Foreign Terrorist Organization and Conspiracy to Provide Support to a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. Gray was arraigned on the indictment in federal court today. Gray, the owner of Grips by Larry, a federally licensed firearms dealer in Arizona, was previously indicted for firearms trafficking offenses in 2025, alongside a second individual, Barrett Weinberger, 73, of Tucson, Arizona. The original charges against both men included trafficking in firearms, aiding and abetting the straw purchasing of firearms, and aiding and abetting material false statements during the purchase of a firearm. In addition to more firearms charges, last week’s superseding indictment added material support to terrorism charges against Gray. The indictment alleges that Gray knowingly attempted to provide firearms to CJNG in May of 2025, and knowingly conspired to provide firearms to both CJNG and CDS that same year. Both cartels were designated by the U.S. Secretary of State as foreign terrorist organizations pursuant to Section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act on Feb. 20, 2025. Convictions for Conspiracy to and Attempting to Provide Material Support to a Designated Terrorist Organization each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. A conviction for Trafficking in Firearms carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. A conviction for Aiding and Abetting the Straw Purchase of Firearms carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. A conviction for Aiding and Abetting a Material False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marcus Shand, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. CASE NUMBER: CR-25-00835-PHX-DJH RELEASE NUMBER: 2026-049_Weinberger, et al. # # # Contact Public Affairs Lennea Montandon Telephone: (602) 514-7542 Lennea.Montandon@usdoj.gov Updated March 25, 2026
2025: Best of CGIC Award Recipients ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC) of Chicago hosted its 2025 Year in Review meeting with partner agency executives. At the conclusion of the meeting, ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon, joined by each awardee’s agency head, presented this year’s 2025: Best of CGIC awards to individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of justice and the mission of the Crime Gun Intelligence Center of Chicago. Below are this year’s award recipients: From Tactical K Training and Firearms, well done, congratulations to all. Officer Patrick Fahey Jr. CGIC of Chicago Investigator of the Year Intelligence Research Specialist Daniel P. Golden CGIC of Chicago Intelligence Research Specialist of the Year Legal Assistant Denise Descamp Exceptional Organizational Leadership and Commitment to the Mission of the CGIC of Chicago Supervisory Legal Assistant Kristin Golfis Exceptional Organizational Leadership and Commitment to the Mission of the CGIC of Chicago Assistant U.S. Attorney William Dunne CGIC of Chicago Prosecutor of the Year Assistant State's Attorney Anne Kelly CGIC of Chicago Prosecutor of the Year Deputy Chief Andrew Whitfield CGIC of Chicago Prosecutor of the Year ATF is the lead federal law enforcement agency with jurisdiction involving firearms and violent crimes. More information about ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov. Headquarters
Parrish Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Setting Rental Van on Fire at Bradenton Motel Wednesday, March 25, 2026 U.S. Attorney's Office, Middle District of Florida Tampa, Florida – Kendarius Devonta Stitten (26, Parrish Florida) pleaded guilty today to a violation of the federal Anti-Arson Act. Stitten faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. According to court records, on March 20, 2025, Stitten used a lighter and a t-shirt to set a van on fire in a motel parking lot in Bradenton. A couple from Oregon had rented the van from Tampa International Airport. The fire damaged the van, as shown in the picture below: Stitten admitted to federal and state investigators that he had set the van on fire because he thought it belonged to a female acquaintance who failed to show up to a planned meeting at a room at the motel. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations, and Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam W. McCall. Updated March 25, 2026
Gainesville Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of a Homemade Silencer Friday, March 27, 2026 U.S. Attorney's Office, Northern District of Florida Gainesville, Florida – Dean Allen Harper, 55, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of an unmarked and unregistered silencer, which qualifies as a firearm under federal law. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I deeply appreciate the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners to remove dangerous, armed criminals from our streets. My office will continue to back up their hard work on the front lines with aggressive prosecutions under the Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America initiative to keep our communities safe from violent criminals.” Court documents reflect that on November 21, 2025, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle Harper was driving. The vehicle that contained numerous firearms, ammunition, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. In total, Harper was in possession of two rifles, two pistols, multiple magazines, and numerous rounds of ammunition, including armor-piercing ammunition. One of the pistols also had an automotive oil filter converted into a homemade suppressor/silencer attached to its barrel: The threaded barrel had an aftermarket attachment which allowed the oil filter to be attached. The homemade silencer did not have a serial number and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. At sentencing, the defendant faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $10,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. The case involved an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner. This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit Contact United States Attorney’s Office Northern District of Florida USAFLN.Press.Office@usdoj.gov X: @USAO_NDFL Updated March 27, 2026
Federal Judge Rejects Trump DOJ Motion To Gut Ruling Striking Down Post Office Carry Ban We reported back in November that, after a federal court ruled the ban on carrying firearms in post offices unconstitutional, the Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a motion to significantly limit the scope of the injunction. In the case Firearms Policy Coalition Inc. v. Bondi, the court ruled on September 30: “The Court determines that both 18 U.S.C. § 930(a) and 39 C.F.R. § 232.1(1) are inconsistent with the principles that underpin this Nation’s regulatory tradition. Thus, they are unconstitutional as applied to carrying firearms inside an ordinary post office or on post office property.” Unsatisfied with the ruling, the DOJ immediately filed a motion to limit the scope of the injunction to only the named individual plaintiffs and to members of SAF and its partner organizations who were members when the complaint was originally filed and who have been identified and verified. That, of course, prompted both the Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) and Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) to fight back, filing a brief countering the federal government’s request. On March 17, a District Court judge in Texas ruled in favor of the two organizations and their partners, confirming that all current and future members are covered by the injunction in the case, which bars enforcement of the post office carry ban at most ordinary locations.
Amtrack: Firearms in Checked Baggage 3/22/2026 Amtrak accepts reservations of firearms and ammunition for carriage between Amtrak stations and on Amtrak trains within the United States that offer checked baggage service and a ticket office. Amtrak Connection bus services are not to be included in this service. The following policies are in effect: • Notification that the passenger will be checking firearms/ammunition must be made no later than 24 hours before train departure by calling Amtrak at 800-USA-RAIL. Online reservations for firearms/ammunition are not accepted. • The passengers must travel on the same train that is transporting the checked firearms and/or ammunition. • All firearms and/or ammunition must be checked at least 30 minutes prior to scheduled train departure. Some larger stations require that baggage be checked earlier. Please contact your departure station for more details. • All firearms (rifles, shotguns, handguns, taser guns, starter pistols) must be unloaded and in an approved, locked hard-sided container not exceeding 62" L x 17" W x 7" D (1575 mm x 432 mm x 178 mm). The passenger must have sole possession of the key or the combination for the lock to the container. The weight of the container may not exceed 50 lbs/23 kg. • Smaller locked, hard-sided containers containing smaller unloaded firearms such as handguns, taser guns and starter pistols must be securely stored within a suitcase or other item of checked baggage, but the existence of such a firearm must be declared. • All ammunition carried must be securely packed in the original manufacturer's container; in fiber, wood, or metal boxes; or in other packaging specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition. The maximum weight of all ammunition and containers may not exceed 11 lbs/5 kg. • The passenger is responsible for knowing and following all federal, state, and local firearm laws at all jurisdictions to and through which he or she will be traveling. • All other Amtrak checked baggage policies apply, including limits on the number of pieces of checked baggage, the maximum weight of each piece (50 lbs/23 kg). • Firearms/ammunition may not be carried in carry-on baggage; therefore, checked baggage must be available on all trains and at all stations in the passenger's itinerary. • At the time of check-in, passengers will be required to complete and sign a two-part Declaration Form. • BB guns and Compressed Air Guns (to include paintball markers), are to be treated as firearms and must comply with the above firearms policy. Canisters, tanks, or other devices containing propellants must be emptied prior to checking and securely packaged within the contents of the passenger's luggage. Passengers failing to meet the above-mentioned requirements for checking firearms will be denied transportation.
Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms “Don’t Lie for the Other G uy” 3/22/26 A Message From Gregory Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms In the firearms community, trust isn’t optional—it’s the foundation everything else is built on. As the owner and instructor at Tactical K Training and Firearms, I’ve seen firsthand how responsible gun ownership protects families, strengthens communities, and preserves our rights. But that responsibility comes with a simple, non negotiable rule: Never lie for someone who can’t legally buy a firearm. The campaign “Don’t Lie for the Other Guy” exists for a reason. Straw purchases —when someone buys a gun for a person who isn’t allowed to earn favors. They’re federal crimes. They put innocent people at risk, and they undermine the integrity of every law-abiding gun owner who does things the right way. At Tactical K Training and Firearms, I teach more than marksmanship and safety. I teach accountability. I teach the importance of understanding the law, respecting the process, and making decisions that reflect the values of responsible ownership. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned shooter, the message is the same: If someone asks you to buy a gun for them, walk away. If something feels off, trust your instincts. If you’re unsure, ask questions—your FFL, your instructor, or your local authorities can help. Protecting your rights means protecting the system that upholds them. Every background check, every form, every step exists to keep firearms in the hands of responsible citizens. When we cut corners, we don’t just break the law—we break trust. My commitment, both as an instructor and as an FFL, is to educate, empower, and guide people toward safe, legal, and ethical ownership. That includes saying the hard things when necessary. It includes reminding people that integrity matters even when no one is watching. So let’s keep our community strong. Let’s keep our rights secure. And let’s keep repeating the message that saves lives and protects freedoms: Don’t lie for the other guy. — Gregory Kielma Owner & Instructor
Columbia Felon Sentenced to 24 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Glock Switch, Guns, and Drugs Thursday, March 19, 2026 For Immediate Release U.S. Attorney's Office, District of South Carolina COLUMBIA, S.C. — Laclarence Lamarcus Anderson, 43, of Columbia , has been sentenced to more than 24 years in federal prison following a jury trial where Anderson was convicted of 12 counts of drug and gun offenses. Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that Anderson sold 10 firearms and quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, and crack cocaine to confidential informants on four occasions in May and June 2024. One of the firearms that Anderson sold contained a Glock switch, converting the weapon into a machinegun. Two of the firearms he sold had been linked to an attempted homicide and homicide in surrounding counties in the weeks prior. Anderson was found guilty of unlawfully possessing all of these firearms due to his status as a convicted felon . Anderson has prior convictions for assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature, armed robbery, assault and battery – 1st degree, and other drug and gun offenses. United States District Judge Cameron Currie sentenced Anderson to 297 months (25 years) imprisonment, to be followed by a term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elle E. Klein is prosecuting the case. ### Updated March 19, 2026
