Last night the Blowing Rock Town Council by a 3 to 2 vote passed an ordinance prohibiting loaded, concealed guns on town playgrounds and athletic fields.

This month, a new state law allows local governments to permit handguns in parks and playgrounds. It's part of sweeping legislation passed this summer that makes it easier for people to obtain weapons and to carry them in more public places.

But town councils and county commissioners across the state are opting out of a section of the law that allows guns in recreational areas, such as swimming pools and athletic fields.

With this vote, Blowing Rock joins the more than 20 local governments that have decided that guns and playgrounds don't mix.

To join the statewide campaign visit: http://bit.ly/safe-playgrounds