U.S. Constitution Focus of Oklahomans at Gun Range

By Rusty Surette, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- A modern movement rooted in history has Oklahomans arming themselves with information.

Paul Conrady is one of several men who came up with the idea of holding an informational class on the United States Constitution. He said the project was the result of several lively political debates he's had with friends at a local gun shop.

"It seems like every conversation we have about today's politics, the Constitution is being trampled on," said Conrady, who is a private business owner from Luther. "I needed a refresher. I needed to know not only by reading it, but what does it actually say and how did it come about?"

Don Powers, a professor at UCO and a former judge, agreed to host the free lectures at the H&H Gun Range in Oklahoma City. The classes are held every Tuesday for six weeks. H&H Gun Range owner, Miles Hall, said he's thrilled to see people taking a deeper interest in politics.

"This started off as a handful of people, and it has morphed into what will be close to 100 people tonight," said Hall. "That's an awakening."

Organizers stressed the class isn't a political ploy and ideologies are left at the door. They said it is an educational opportunity for others to learn what the U.S. Constitution really says about religion, freedom and the rights of all Americans.

There's only four more weeks for the lectures, but the group said it's already brainstorming ideas to expand the project.