Business
A Republican Tried to Introduce a Commonsense Gun Law. Then the Gun Lobby Got Involved.
Published
1 year agoon

Following a deputy sheriff killed in the Denver neighborhood, Colorado state Rep. Cole Wist took action by signing a red flag bill. The bill could result in him losing his position. ProPublica interviewed Wist concerning the harsh reality of reforming the gun industry.
Cole Wist was a Republican state House member from Colorado who received an A grade in the NRA. In 2018 he supported an anti-red flag law proposing legislation that would allow guns to be removed for a short period from those who pose a danger to them or anyone else.
Wist was forced out of the legislature due to outrage by Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, an organization for gun rights located in Colorado. It boasts that it will accept “no compromise” as it fights “the gun grabbers.” The group waged a campaign against him, dispersing brochures and referring to his social media accounts as “Cole the Mole.”
Wist, an attorney, does not regret attempting to implement what he thought was a reasonable response to the rising rate of shootings in the United States. He intervened when a mentally ill person in his Denver suburb shot and killed the sheriff’s deputy. The bill wasn’t passed till after Wist was removed from office, and his successor, Tom Sullivan, shepherded it through. Sullivan was a Democrat and lost his son during his tragic shooting at the Aurora Theater massacre.
Wist quit his position with the Republican Party this year, in part, citing his involvement in January. 6th, 2021 protests as the reason and are no longer associated with political parties of any kind. A few days after the murder of 19 children and two adults at an elementary school located in Texas, ProPublica talked to Wist about the challenges faced as gun rights advocates continue to implement gun reforms.
Colorado is among 19 states, including Illinois, Florida, and Indiana, which have red flag laws, sometimes known as extremely risk-protection orders. Texas does not. Following shootings at the Robb Elementary School massacre on Tuesday, an all-party coalition in the U.S. Senate agreed to talk about possible anti-violence measures, including the expansion of Red Flag laws.
In Colorado, a Rocky Mountain Gun Owners spokesperson called Wist “a sellout” on Friday and stated that the group was forced to oppose him. “At the end of the day, my goal is to hold politicians accountable regardless of whether they’re a Republican or a Democrat,” stated RMGO’s executive director Taylor Rhodes.
Rhodes described the school’s “massive terrorist attack” at the school but said that gun control isn’t the solution.
“We defend all that is valuable by using guns. We safeguard our banks by using guns and courts … the homes we live in. We defend our banks by using firearms.” The group logo features a picture of a gun, which is reminiscent of one of the assault weapons.
The interview with Wist was edited to improve clarity and length.
Let me know the reason you brought the bill to Colorado.
Every time we experience incidents like this, there is a tendency for people to go to their respective camps. Some believe we should ban certain types of firearms or extend universal background checks, or any other ideas to ban guns from our society. On the other hand, we are surrounded by people who say they’re mental health problems, which is a sign of a more significant mental health problem in the nation. However, you’ll notice that I don’t receive several solutions to policy issues from these people. Therefore, to explore ways to link the topic of mental health with the concoction of mental health issues with access to firearms and firearms, I began to research extremely risk-related protection orders and how other states have implemented them. One state that was the very first to pass this law was Indiana. I don’t think anyone would ever believe you are in Indiana. Indiana is a hard-left state in any way. Finally, I decided to introduce legislation on the extreme risk order for protection.
In your time as a state legislator, when you were a member of the state legislature, Republicans had control of the state Senate and Democrats held the House. What was the composition of your state legislature?
I was the representative for a district that was at the time a majority Republican. The district had been historically populated by Republican lawmakers, but the district was considered a suburb district that was becoming more purple. You are aware that once you’re selected to serve a legislative district, it’s not just a matter of being elected by those who have voted for you. You’re elected to represent all district residents, which includes all non-affiliated Democratic people.
Who opposed you when you ran for reelection back in 2018?
There’s also a group called The Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, an active gun-rights group. The group targeted me or my race to conduct campaign activities and actively fought against me. … They placed posters on doors of people, including my own, and utilized their resources to fight me.
Do you a member of the Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, similar to the National Rifle Association?
I believe they describe themselves as a no-compromise gun-rights group. They are as being more assertive on gun rights issues than NRA. In addition, the NRA is the most known organization, one with the most resources. In Colorado, Rocky Mountain Gun Owners is the gun rights organization that holds the most significant influence. They’ve had success in bringing back some legislators in this state.
Did you feel like they sacrificed your seat to communicate to the other legislators to stay in the line?
It’s probably an acceptable interpretation. You can either stay within the line and take the party’s direction on this issue, or they’ll take you off. This is precisely the thing they did. It’s true; there were other variables in the 2018 election. The midterm election also marked Donald Trump’s first term as president, the only time he was in office. Therefore, there was more to consider than gun laws. However, it was an element that worked against my reelection, and did not assist. … The adversity could be enough to stifle participation from that Republican party for me.
Was there a reaction from the GOP leadership to your endorsement of the bill that is known as the red flag?
The position I held was that of the assistant minority leader of the State House at the time. There was a plan to take me out of this leadership position. The effort was unsuccessful. I believe there’s a hesitation within Republican circles in this country to confront groups like that of Rocky Mountain Gun Owners for fear of not being able to run for president because of the risk of them working against your campaign. People may consider my experience having something that stops them from having any conversations. I introduced a highly controversial bill. In these circles, engaging in discussions about gun policies or safety legislation is a risk to people in Republican circles in this area. If your goal is to remain in the office for an extended period and be renewed … it’s best not to overstep the line.
In the wake of Uvalde, What does your experience tell you about the probability of our elected officials enacting actions to stop any future atrocities?
I’ve seen sure signs popping up again following this tragedy when everybody retreats to the corner. Some are calling for the ban of certain kinds of firearms and changing the purchase age of specific types of weapons. If you attempt to eliminate AR-15s, I think this is a solution to the policy issue which some belief would be a good idea to consider. I’m not convinced. We have millions of guns in the hands of gun owners across the nation. What impact will you be able to have if you prohibit certain types of guns currently? I believe the best way to discuss this is to discuss the reasons people engage in these types of violent acts using firearms and other kinds of weapons. … So, I think that laws regarding red flags as well as legislation that focuses on reducing the risk, and discussing why these types of incidents happen is the most beneficial conversation that we can have. Let’s give law enforcement agencies and families tools they can utilize.
However, one thing that isn’t mentioned in this discussion is that — I’ll discuss specifically Colorado. We boast one of the highest rates of suicide across the nation. Also, we have one of the highest rates of gun ownership in the country, and guns cause the highest percentage of suicides in Colorado. If someone is experiencing a mental disorder, there’s a chance of committing murder, but there’s also an increased chance they’ll injure themselves. Therefore, I believe there’s an approach to portraying the laws that are deemed red flags as a way of confiscating guns and attempting to violate the constitutional rights of a person. However, I believe this is a tool to protect the person by preventing self-harm and safeguarding their family members from being hurt.
Can you explain the toll this event affected the family and you?
I was threatened because I went through this process. It was extremely difficult for our family. I’m not a fan of that aspect of life in public. Also, social media and other technologies make being in the office extremely difficult. It is possible to say anything about anything and almost anything. So, I’m able to do two things. As a citizen of the world, I can choose to withdraw from this topic and not even talk about it or attempt to do my best to spread awareness and inspire people to join forces. I’m not sure that you’ll ever be able to change the minds of all people. However, we can’t solve issues when we don’t talk with each other and not snub one another. Each time we face an incident, like the one at the state capitol in Texas the week before, we have the initial”let’s talk about it, let’s get together, let’s discuss this. However, I’m amazed by how quickly everyone gives up on the old position. I’m hoping that this time will be something different.
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Business
Seven YouTube Tips and Strategies to Grow Your Business.
Published
4 months agoon
June 1, 2023
YouTube is an effective instrument that companies can make use of to expand their reach and expand their customer base. With more than 2 and half billion active monthly users, YouTube provides businesses with an enormous platform to showcase their goods, services, and brand messages. With such a massive and popular user base, It can be difficult to stand out from the other videos and have your video seen by prospective customers.
This is why we’ve compiled the following list of seven suggestions and strategies that you can make use of to expand your company’s presence on YouTube. From optimizing your YouTube videos to ensure SEO and adding annotations and ending screens to entice viewers to act, These tips can enable you to get the most value out of YouTube and increase your revenue.
Seven YouTube Tips and Strategies to Expand Your Business.
Optimize your Videos to be SEO-friendly
If you would like your videos on social media to be seen by prospective clients, you must improve them to be optimized for SEO or search engine optimization (SEO). That means you should include relevant keywords within your titles and description so that your videos will appear more prominent on search results. It is also possible to use tags in your videos.
Can add tags to make videos more optimized for SEO.
Tags are words you use to identify your video. YouTube utilizes these tags to categorize and index your video content. By making a bit of work and effort, you can ensure that your videos on social media are doing their best to work hard to bring new viewers to your website.
Utilize End Screens
Screens, in the end, are an enjoyable and effective way to advertise your other channels, videos, and websites. They can also serve as a guide and make it easier for viewers to subscribe to your channel or share your content. To add an end-screen to your YouTube channel, you must visit the YouTube Studio and click on the “End Screens” tab.
In the next step from there, you can incorporate images, texts, or videos to advertise whatever you’d like to. Be sure to ensure that the ending screen appears towards the very end of the video and does not interfere with your viewing experience. If you’re creative, screen endings can prove to be an effective instrument for boosting the popularity of your Youtube channel.
Create Engaging Thumbnails
The most significant but still largely ignored element in your video is the thumbnail. It is the first impression people see as they view the video. Therefore it’s vital that it’s attractive and interesting. It’s good to know that there are a handful of steps that you can use to ensure that your thumbnails are top-quality. Choose images which is appropriate to the content of the video and which will draw people’s interest.
Make sure that your image is at a high resolution. Then, make sure the image is of high quality and resolution. After everything, the goal is for the viewers to be able to clearly see the things they’re clicking. Also, you can add text to the thumbnail. It may be the title of your video or catchy slogan, or any other thing which will draw the attention of viewers. If you follow these steps by following these steps, you can make sure your thumbnails will be able to get more views and increase the number of views on your YouTube channel.
Leverage Social Media
If you’re the proprietor of a small or perhaps a mid-sized company, You’re likely aware of the importance of promotion. It is crucial to bringing customers and increasing sales. There are several ways to promote your product or services. However, the best and yet the most affordable is by using social media. If used correctly, the platforms can aid in reaching many people and increase the visibility of your content for a larger public.
How can you utilize social media to market the popularity of your YouTube videos? Make sure you publish your videos on each of your social networks. This can help boost the exposure of your video and ensure that they are noticed by the maximum number of people possible. Consider also making use of paid-for promotion tools, for example, Facebook advertisements or tweets that are promoted by Twitter.
They allow you to focus on a particular group of people and greatly increase the exposure of your content. Remember to add hyperlinks to your videos within the signature of your email Signature and on your site. If you take advantage of each of these channels for promotion that you can use, you can significantly improve the number of viewers who watch YouTube video content and increase visitors to your site.
Work with other YouTubers
One of the best and best methods to gain increased views on YouTube videos is participating in collaborations with YouTubers with an audience similar to yours. There are several different ways that you can explore collaborating with other creators using YouTube.
As an example, you can create a Q&A joint video and host one another in videos, or make sure you promote each other’s content through the videos you make. One of the most crucial aspects is to identify a YouTuber with a similar market as you do in order you can get new viewers via the channel.
If you’re looking for a guaranteed amount of visibility for your YouTube videos advertising with paid advertisements is the best option. YouTube has options for ad formats. They include in-stream ads (ads that appear before and after, as well as during the content) as well as discover ads (ads that appear in the results of searches or are used as suggestions), and bumper ads (short non-skippable, short ads). Advertisements that pay are an effective method to increase the number of viewers to your content since they place your videos in the hands of people who are already curious about your content.
Make use of Copyright-Free Music and SFX.
Music that is free of copyright and royalty-free music and SFX can provide great methods to add an additional dimension of excitement to YouTube videos. There are several sources of copyright-free music and SFX available online, and many of them are accessible for use at no cost. It is important to be aware of the conditions of each source prior to making use of any content from them.
Some sites may ask that you attribute your music and SFX to them. However, others permit you to utilize it with no attribution. After you’ve identified an option you’re happy with, take the music files as well as the SFX files and incorporate them into the video. With a small amount of thought and preparation, you can quickly add copyright-free music and SFX to YouTube videos and provide them with the professional look you’re searching for.
The End of the Story
These are some of the strategies you can utilize on YouTube to increase your sales and profits. If you are willing to put in the effort and energy, you’ll be stunned by the speed at which you’ll see your positive results! Making a YouTube channel successful requires patience, perseverance as well as creative thinking, and some trial and trial and time at the end of the day.
Business
Do You Want To Use Your Home As A Business Location? There are 5 Things To Consider.
Published
4 months agoon
May 31, 2023
We’ve discovered through the COVID outbreak that many of us can work in the comfort of our homes. This is why there’s been an increase in the number of people who want to make their Home for business purposes.
Making your Home an office space has many benefits. In the beginning, you’ll lower costs, such as rent and other rates. Additionally, you’ll be in control over the working conditions.
However, it’s not smooth sailing. There are some drawbacks to be conscious of. This article will explore certain things to be aware of before utilizing your house as an office premise.
5 Reasons to Think About Using Your House as Your Business Location
1. Know the difference between Converting your Home to work from the comfort of your Home
First, you must know the differences between turning your Home into commercial premises and working as an employee from at Home. If you’re running an enterprise from Home and want to expand your business, it’s necessary to modify your Home to make room for the situation.
Know the difference between converting your Home into a Work From Home. For instance, you might have to create an area for work with distinct phone lines and internet connectivity and ensure that your insurance policy will cover business-related actions.
2. Take a look at the legal aspect
Additionally, there are legal issues that you have to be aware of. As an example, you’ll have to consult with your local authority about what you have to do for planning permits or permits.
It is also necessary to ensure that your company complies with all relevant laws and regulations regarding health and safety. In addition, if you employ employees who work for you, you’ll have to follow the rules regarding employment.
Zoning regulations are yet another factor to think about. The regulations may differ between different areas, and it’s essential to determine the laws for your specific area.
3. Think about the financial implications
There are various issues with finances you’ll need to be aware of. In particular, you’ll have to ensure you’re still in the tax-free zone or benefits for which you have a right.
Are You Planning to Make Your House a Business Location – Five Things to Think about – Consider the financial implications of how your homeowner’s insurance affects your company. If you’re a homeowner with any mortgages on your Home, it is essential to inquire with the lender to determine their restrictions regarding using your Home to run a business.
4. Consider the practical implications
Consider thinking about how your company can impact family time. Also, it is essential to consider the noise level, parking, and deliveries. Also, you must ensure that you have sufficient space to allow for the growth of your business.
If you are dealing with products you want to wrap or ship and then keep, you must ensure you have enough storage space. Suppose you decide to go using top-quality custom packaging by StickerYou. In that case, it is essential to consider the area for the packaging products and the room needed to pack and transport them.
Also, it is essential to consider where your customers can collect their items if you provide local delivery or pickup in-store.
5. Think about the Tax Implications
If you are using your house as your office, it is necessary to inform HMRC that you are doing so. Also, you will need to consider how your company will be taxed.
In other words, you must be taxed on income profits even as a sole trader. If you decide to create a limited-company and are a corporation, you must pay tax on your earnings.
Be aware of the tax ImplicationsIn short, changing your house into a commercial location can be a fantastic option to cut costs and gain more control over the working space. However, it is essential to take into consideration a number of factors prior to you making the move. When you’re sure you are able to handle the consequences, then you are able to enjoy the advantages.

Suppose you want to enhance your professional profile or benefit from the tax advantages of business cars. In that case, leasing can be a straightforward and economical way to access high-end vehicles for yourself and your employees.
For entrepreneurs who are sole traders or limited companies, as well as those who are in fixed partnerships and limited Liability Partnerships, a business lease car lets you change your car’s model every couple of years at an affordable monthly fee.
In this article, we’ll detail how business leasing deals for cars are made, how they differ from personal leasing, and how you can cut costs through a lease for a business car.
What exactly is business car leasing?
Instead of purchasing a vehicle for yourself, leasing a business vehicle lets you access brand-new cars with a fixed monthly fee, which is typically spread over one and five years.
Since you’re not paying for everything associated with the car, a company car lease is cheaper than other forms of finance, such as Hire Purchase. Additionally, if you use the vehicle only to travel for work, you are entitled to reclaim 100% of the tax on rental payment and servicing expenses, as well as miles and fuel. Any personal use of the car will decrease the amount of VAT you could claim back.
What is the process for leasing a business vehicle? Operate?
Models and makes available vary depending on the provider; however, whether you require an executive vehicle or a transport van, leasing a business vehicle can help you locate an automobile that meets your needs at a meagre cost per month.
To qualify to be eligible, your company must operate, be able to show solid results and undergo a credit screening to confirm that you can pay the lease’s monthly payments.
At the beginning of your lease, you’ll have to make an initial payment of between 3 and 12 monthly instalments, which are later deducted from the total cost of the lease. This will be called ‘6+23’, meaning you’ll pay 6 months in advance and the rest over 23 equal instalments.
It is also possible to agree on a maximum annual mileage for your vehicle with your supplier, which could vary from 8,000- 40,000 miles per year. If you are more than this number, you’ll be required to pay an extra mile cost, so make sure you’re realistic in your estimate and, in the event of a mishap you’re unsure, allow yourself some breathing space.
Leasing for business vs personal
The most significant difference between commercial vehicle leasing and personal leasing is the possibility of claiming the VAT back from your monthly rental payments and a maintenance charge, which can help you save as much as 20% off the expense of an equivalent vehicle on a personal lease.
But the moment you utilize your car in a mix of personal and business trips. However, you’ll only be able to claim a small portion of the VAT. If your employee uses their car for private motives, they’ll need to pay a tax on benefits-in-kind that is calculated and determined by the price list of the vehicle and the CO2 emission. The lower the emission and the less tax they pay, the less.
Pros and cons, as well as tax advantages
Pros
- Cost-effective: access new vehicles for a minimal monthly cost and claim VAT
- The leasing company absorbs the expense of depreciating the value of your car, which means you won’t be charged.
- Make sure to write it off against your income – it is possible to include your leased car in your balance sheet and then write it off against the profits.
Cons
- Charges if you over the miles, return your vehicle in a damaged condition, or do not maintain it correctly. You’ll be charged.
- The vehicle must be returned to its original condition, and you will not be permitted to change it or label the car in any manner.
Some insurance companies provide ‘complete care’ plans. If not, you’ll have to take responsibility for taking out an appropriate insurance plan. It is important to note that the leasing firm is the owner registered to the car. If you don’t, it may make any claim unenforceable.
The next step
The problem is that new vehicles are costly and could be wiped out by the majority of their initial value in three years. For small businesses with strained margins, leasing cars let you enjoy a brand-new vehicle at a fraction of the price.
Alongside benefiting from the most recent technology and security features, you and your team can present an impressive image on the go and access various vehicles that can meet demands. Make sure you are realistic about the amount of mileage you’re planning to drive and look around for the most affordable price.
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