Stamford Gun Show Goes On Despite Protests

Stamford gun show goes on despite protests First in Connecticut since Dec. 14 school shooting Gun enthusiasts and gun protesters converged in Stamford on Saturday for the first gun show in Connecticut since the Dec. 14 shooting rampage that killed 20 first-graders and six teachers and administrators about 40 miles away in Newtown. Many of those in attendance said the eighth annual East Coast Fine Arms Show at the Stamford Plaza hotel was about collectible antique weapons, not the type of automatic weapons used last month in the massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School. Frank, who brought his young son, said a lot of gun collectors are passionate about what's going on since 20-year-old Adam Lanza shot his way into the school, armed with an assault rifle and two handguns. The decision received some negative responses, including from Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia, who said, "It would make more sense and be more sensitive to cancel" the event. More than 50 protesters holding signs supporting gun control and banning assault rifles gathered across from the hotel, drawing supportive honks and a few crude hand gestures. Baekey, of Norwalk, said she was unsure if her newly formed group would stand out on the frigid sidewalk again on Sunday as the show continues, adding that she is focusing on working with other groups for a march on the state Capitol on Feb.