A PUBLICATION OF THE NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA SPRING 2018
SADDLE UP, RIDE, AND
SHOOT!
In the exciting sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting, the shooting and riding brings back the colorful days of the Wild West!
President's Column: Mentor a New Shooter, Save the Second Amendment
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Saddle Up, Ride, and Shoot!:
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Bringing back the colorful days of the Wild West!
NRA Women's Wilderness Escape Enroll now for your 2018 adventure!
Annie Oakley Women's Shooting Programs Presented by Nevada Firearms Coalition
Y.E.S. NRA Youth Education Summit
Orchid Advisors and FFL BizHub Helping the firearms industry's commerce
Winners of the 2017 George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest
NRA Online Hunter Education Launched in 2 More States!
NRA Refuse To Be A Victim® Celebrating 25 years of best practices in safety As a tribute to our 16,000 affiliated clubs, associations, and Business Alliance members, NRA is working towards building stronger relationships with this grassroots network that keeps the NRA in the forefront of community action to benefit the American public. We honor the hard work and efforts being done at the state and local levels to continue to secure our Second Amendment Freedoms. It is for this reason, we return to the NRA Club Connection as the communication standard with our affiliated organizations. Thank you all for your continued support of the National Rifle Association!
4 6 8 11 14 18 21 Editor: Son Nguyen, National Manager Clubs & Associations and Range Services snguyen@nrahq.org Design & Layout: Stephen Czarnik, Sr. Program Coord. Clubs & Associations sczarnik@nrahq.org
(800) NRA-Club (672-2582) clubs@nrahq.org
COVER: Kenda Lenseigne, Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association 2009 World Overall Champion Published quarterly by the National Rifle Association of America Recreational Programs & Ranges Division © Copyright 2018 National Rifle Association
NRA Clubs & Associations • 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030 • (800) NRA-Club • clubs.nra.org
president’scolumn president’scolumn
Mentor a New Shooter, Save theaSecond Amendment Mentor New Shooter, ay has been designated NRA This mentorship effort reminds me of a Save the Second Amendment Mentor Initiative month. The NRA, question I sometimes hear, “What is the NRA
M M By Pete R. Brownell President
By Pete R. Brownell President
NRA OFFICERS Pete R. Brownell NRA OFFICERS President Pete R. Richard Brownell Childress President First Vice President
Richard Carolyn Childress D. Meadows First Vice President Second Vice President
Carolyn D. Meadows Wayne LaPierre Second Vice President Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre John Frazer Executive Secretary Vice President John Frazer Wilson H. Phillips Jr. Secretary Treasurer Wilson H. Phillips Jr. Josh Powell Treasurer Chief of Staff, Executive Director, Office ofOperations EVP General Josh Powell Executive Director, Christopher W. Cox General Operations Executive Director,
Institute For W. Legislative Christopher Cox Action Executive Director,
Institute For Legislative Action
For news about your NRA, visit: nra.org and nranews.com Share thisabout column online at For news your NRA, nrapublications.org. visit: nra.org and nranews.com Share this column online at nrapublications.org.
with support from the firearm doing me today?” I challenge ay has been designated NRA inThisfor mentorship effort remindsyou me to of ask a dustry, has designed an initiative a very yourself, “What am I doing for the is Second Mentor Initiative month. with The NRA, question I sometimes hear, “What the NRA simple objective; we are calling on eachinof Amendment America?” I suggest you with support from the firearm doing for meand today?” I challenge you to ask our 5-million-and-growing NRA members— can do something America, for Second our dustry, has designed an initiative with a very yourself, “What amfor I doing for the and everyone elsewe in are the calling firearmon commutreasured Second Amendment today after simple objective; each of Amendment and America?” I suggest you nity—to find someone whoNRA has members— never fired a you do finish reading this. You can get up, make our 5-million-and-growing can something for America, for our firearm before,else take to the commurange and a phone call and take your niece, nephew, and everyone inthem the firearm treasured Second Amendment today after help them putsomeone their firstwho rounds on target. neighbor, granddaughter or friend nity—to find has never fired a you finish grandson, reading this. You can get up, make There’s no better way to Americans tophone the shooting firearm before, take them toinform the range and a call andrange. take your niece, nephew, on the Second Amendment thanon totarget. provide It’s on all of us to be chief ambassadors help them put their first rounds neighbor, grandson, granddaughter or friend a positive, experience. It’sAmericans been my forthe theshooting Second Amendment and to ensure There’s first-hand no better way to inform to range. experience thatAmendment within minutes ofto the safety its viability toambassadors come. It’s no on the Second than provide It’s on allfor ofgenerations us to be chief briefing, a lesson on marksmanship themy secret, and more youngand Americans a positive, first-hand experience. It’sand been for the more Second Amendment to ensuregrow first pull of the all of theofpreconup viability in urbanfor environments of family and experience thattrigger, within minutes the safety its generationsvoid to come. It’s no ceived notions and biases melt friends more to teach briefing, a lesson onmedia-fueled marksmanship and the secret, andthem moreabout youngresponsible Americansfiregrow away,pull leaving an excited smile and a arminownership. Frighteningly, and and more first of theonly trigger, all of the preconup urban environments voidmore of family desire for more.and media-fueled biases melt young Americans are learning about gunsfireceived notions friends to teach them about responsible Whether fromownership. television news stories, movies, video away, leavingyour onlynewcomer an excitedultimately smile andjoins a arm Frighteningly, more and more the firearm community or simply walks away games or newspaper The best desire for more. young Americans are headlines. learning about gunsway more informed, left learning some to counteract gained from Whether yourthey’ve newcomer ultimately joins from televisionmisinformation news stories, movies, videoany invaluable the least walks of which is of theseorsources is to headlines. help people learn the the firearmlessons—not community or simply away games newspaper The best way gun safety. I would also hope the next time truth through first-hand experiences. more informed, they’ve left learning some to counteract misinformation gained from any they hear alessons—not discussion regarding invaluable the least firearms, of which is of these sources is to help people learn the rights or gun owners thatthe doesn’t gun safety. I would also hope next relate time truth through first-hand experiences. TO HELP YOU GET with their first-hand experience, they they hear aown, discussion regarding firearms, will be much likely tothat seedoesn’t and callrelate out gun rights or more gun owners STARTED AS AGET MENTOR, I TO HELP YOU bogus information for what it is. Perhaps with their own, first-hand experience, they ENCOURAGE TO VISIT more will beimportantly, much more they likelywill to be seeinclined and callto out STARTED AS AYOU MENTOR, I speak up and set the for bogus information forrecord what itstraight is. Perhaps NRAPUBLICATIONS. ENCOURAGE YOU TO VISIT those less informed. more importantly, they will be inclined to ORG/MENTOR It’s up often “A lie will make its way speak andsaid, set the record straight for NRAPUBLICATIONS. aroundless theinformed. globe before the truth can get those TO DOWNLOAD its boots laced up.” ORG/MENTOR It’s often said, “ASadly, lie willplenty make of itsmedia way outlets are to give the globe-trotting around the happy globe before truth can get A COPY TOFREE DOWNLOAD untruths free up.” ride. Sadly, Each and every person its boots alaced plenty of media OF THE COPY NRA’S who knows the facts can serve as a stoplight outlets are happy to give globe-trotting A FREE long enough forride. the Each truth and about firearms and untruths a free every person “A FOR OF GUIDE THE NRA’S gun owners to catch who knows the facts up. can serve as a stoplight NEW SHOOTERS.” The benefits endand long enough for of thementorship truth aboutdon’t firearms “A GUIDE FOR there. Serving a mentor is also a great gun owners to as catch up. NEW We’veSHOOTERS.” all had mentors in refresher courseof in mentorship gun safety and marksThe benefits don’t end manship for yourself. Plus, you’re doing life. Virtually all of us owe our successes to there. Serving as a mentor is also a great your part course to improve public safety. A more theWe’ve criticalallguidance of at in least a handful refresher in gun safety and markshad mentors knowledgeable firearm owner in adoing commuof people. We people; we manship for yourself. Plus, you’re life. Virtually allremember of us owe those our successes to nity makes positive public overallsafety. difference to holdcritical them in high regard, and ina many ways your part toa improve A more the guidance of at least handful everyone’s safety. wepeople. emulateWe them in our everyday lives. This knowledgeable firearm owner in a commuof remember those people; we mentoring initiative is an extension is your opportunity to be that nityThis makes a positive overall difference to hold them in high regard, and person in manyfor ways of NRA’s founding someone else. everyone’s safety. principles—providing we emulate them in our everyday lives. This gunThis safety, traininginitiative and education to all Do your part to keep mentoring is an extension is your opportunity to beour thatcommunities person for Americans. By becoming a mentor, you get safer, to keep of NRA’s founding principles—providing someone else.our kids on the right track to introduce the training process totoa all newandDo to your forever ourour precious Second gun safety, training and education partsecure to keep communities comer. While advise allanew shooters to Amendment. Americans. Bywe becoming mentor, you get safer, to keep our kids on the right track train with NRA Certified recog- andBecome a mentor. to introduce the trainingInstructors, process to we a newto forever secure our precious Second nize thatWhile manywe people comfortable comer. adviseare all more new shooters to Amendment. getting started with a knowledgeable train with NRA Certified Instructors, wefriend recogBecome a mentor. or loved nize that one. many people are more comfortable getting started with a knowledgeable friend Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 1 or loved one. may 2018 ❘ ❘ americanhunter.org
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SADDLE UP, RIDE, AND
SHOOT! In the exciting sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting, the shooting and riding brings back the colorful days of the Wild West!
by Phil Spangenberger, Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association
Here come the cowboys...and cowgirls! The Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association®, also known as the CMSA, is the national organization that governs the sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting. With over 100 clubs nationwide, the CMSA has been dubbed as the "ultimate western shooting and riding challenge," Cowboy Mounted Shooting is sighted in for shooters and equestrians who want to combine the romance of the Wild West, with the excitement of a high speed shooting and riding competition. Imagine riding your horse, hell bent for leather, while blasting 10 balloon targets with six-shooters, as you pair fastaction sixgunning with an all-out, against the clock horse race! Contestants use two fixed sight, .45 Colt caliber single-action revolvers (there are also rifle and shotgun matches) designed prior to 1898, or reproductions thereof. For safety in this arena sport, firearms are loaded with CMSA certified, match supplied blank cartridges which can break a balloon at a distance up to 18 feet. Riders are scored on time and accuracy, with 5-second penalties for missed targets, not following the designated course (over 55 prescribed patterns) and so on. Courses 2 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
Photos by Mr. Quigly Photography
can include rodeo-style barrel racing, pole bending, and reining, but all with lots of speed! Cowboy Mounted Shooting traces its roots back to the Old West, when proficiency with sixguns and horses was a necessity. Competitors must dress western, either traditional style, including a long-sleeve western shirt, 5 pocket blue jeans covered by chinks or chaps, western boots and a cowboy hat, or if you have a hankerin', you can dress in the old-time style of the late 1800s. Now celebrating their 25th year, Cowboy Mounted Shooting has grown from a handful
of competitors to holding full-scale regional, national and world championship competitions, sometimes involving 200-300-plus competitors who come from all over the nation. The Wild West comes to life in Cowboy Mounted Shooting. At a CMSA competition, you’ll see some of the country’s finest sixguns, performance horses, and colorfully outfitted cowboys and cowgirls, competing for buckles, cash and other prizes! With contestants of any age and either gender, it’s a sport the entire family can enjoy taking part in. To learn how to get started, contact www.cowboymountedshooting.com or call 1-888-960-0003.
Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 3
Register Now For A 2018
NRA Women’s Wilderness Escape Event! by NRA Staff
Being introduced to the shooting sports and hunting can be intimidating, especially for a woman. If you're surrounded by experts, you might have a hard time relaxing because you're so worried about messing up. The NRA Women's Wilderness Escape gives women 18 and up the opportunity to discover shooting in the company of other women. The Women's Wilderness Escape includes shooting, hunting, game calling and survival skill activities tailored exclusively for women! Two Women's Wilderness Escape events are scheduled for 2018. The first is a four-day experience in early June at Seven Springs Resort in Champion, Pennsylvania. Attendees will learn how to safely handle and operate a shotgun, explore the game of sporting clays at one of the country's best facilities, and discover how to build a personal strategy at the First Aid and Trauma Care seminar all while relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding Laurel Highlands. Registration costs $995 and is all-inclusive. The second event is a six-day experience at the NRA Whittington Center just outside Raton, New Mexico in early October. The NRA Whittington Center is one of the finest shooting complexes in the nation, boasting 33,000 acres nested amongst the scenic western moun-
tains and high mesa country of New Mexico. This escape teaches participants how to safely handle and operate a shotgun, rifle and pistol, as well as a visit to the Frank Brownell Museum of the Southwest. Registration is $1,750 and is all-inclusive! There's nothing more empowering than a group of women who come together to experience and enjoy the shooting sports and the outdoor lifestyle. Experience your escape this year! Register now or learn more about NRA Women’s Wilderness Escape at https://wwe.nra. org, call (800) 672-7435, or email wwe@nrahq.org.
Rifle Hunting Rifle Hunting Experience The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Class with Jessie Class with Jessie Duff-Harrison Duff-Harrison Seven Springs Whittington Jun. 7–10, 2018 • $2,500 Jun. 7–10, 2018 • $2,500 Resort Center Jun. 1–4, 2018 • $995
Oct. 1–6, 2018 • $1,750 O
Competitive Shooting Award Points Program
Rifle Hunting Class with Jessie Duff-Harrison
O N O N W K W K O M O M T T O O T T R R N N E A A ? W W Award points are a paper denomination that has been awarded to competitors as prizes at national shooting competitions for the NRA. Award points have also been available to hosting clubs that register their tournaments with the Competitive Shooting division. This year, we are phasing out the award points program in favor of additional cash and industry-related prizes at the National Matches. Currently, those with award points may continue to redeem them. Additionally, competitors in the 2018 sectionals and hosted tournaments will continue to receive requested award points. All National Matches have ceased to issue award points for 2018 with the exception of Smallbore, which removed award points from their program in 2017. Beginning in 2019, award points will no longer be issued for any NRA Competitive Shooting event.
Whittington Seven Springs CONTACT US CONTACT US Jun. 7–10, 2018 • $2,500 Center Resort
Oct. 1–6, 2018 • $1,750 Jun. 1–4, 2018 • $995 (800) optio l (800) 672-7435,call option 5 672-7435, or email|wwe@nrahq.org | ww wwe@nrahq.org wwe.nra.org
KNOW MORE? WANT TO CONTACT US
call (800) 672-7435, option 5 or email wwe@nrahq.org | wwe.nra.org
Winter 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 5
Nevada Firearms Coalition’s Annie Oakley Shooting Program
6 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
by Don Turner, President, Nevada Firearms Coalition
As the Arizona Statewide Shooting Range Project Leader and direct supervisor of the Ben Aery Shooting Facility, I met with some women shooters with the Arizona State Rifle and Pistol Association, and in 2001 we developed a women’s shooting program that was totally different from all the ladies shooting clubs that were in existence at the time. The goal was to provide a safe and friendly environment for new women shooters to be introduced into shooting in a non threating manner. Get them interested in shooting, encourage them to join women's shooting programs, train their families, implement safe gun handling and storage at home and participate in shooting and hunting activities. Hence the Annie Oakley Sure Shot Program was developed, and has been a huge success. Retiring from the Arizona Game and Fish Department and moving to Las Vegas to plan, design, construct and open the Clark County Shooting Park, renamed to the Clark County Shooting Complex, I was committed to bringing that successful program concept to Nevada. In order to accomplish this goal, it took forming a new state NRA association (the Nevada Firearms Coalition) and its Foundation and major fund raising to be able to lay the foundation or this program in Nevada. In February 2017, the NVFAC Annie Oakley Women’s Shooting Program was developed. Team members were recruited, lesson plans developed, supplies procured and several training sessions were held before our first opening on April 25th, 2017. The results were overwhelming. We had anticipated training 40 ladies that night. Instead we trained 291 women and turned away over 500. The line of cars to enter the Clark County Shooting Complex was over a mile and a half long! Since that time and as of last Tuesday night, the 23rd of January 2018, we’ve trained 1,352 women in firearms safety and basic handgun marksmanship, supervised 2,490 women shooters, trained 64 team members, held 48 classes, 79 range sessions and provided 20 advanced seminars. The program continues to bring in new women weekly. As an example, for the first three weeks of 2018, we’ve trained 66 new shooters and supervised 129 shooters in three classes and 5 range sessions.
Why is our program so successful?
We don’t know, but we’d like to share the concept and give some insight on the program. Step One:
Develop the program by selecting a few key women shooters to serve as a sounding board and then developing program criteria and stipulations, preparing lesson plans for team development and student training, identifying supplies, and developing marketing materials. Step Two: Procuring materials, printing handbooks for team and students, purchasing storage locker, ammunition, printing 1,000 handbooks (which included waiver and student survey), soliciting donations and fund raising, scheduling range time.
Step Three:
Team Development: Soliciting team members, providing team training, providing “soft opening” for role training. Step Four: Develop Social Media presence,provided information to local news sources. Provided information to existing shooting resources in the area. Step Five:
Implementation.
What makes NVFAC Annie Oakley Women’s Shooting Program different? • No men are allowed as shooters or on the team. • Low barriers to participation. No registration.
• It is not a club, no membership required. Its purpose to get women to be comfortable with shooting and encourage them to join other groups and take other training. • No fees.
• . 22 LE Handguns, 125 rounds of .22LR, targets and safety cards provided. • Students provide ear and eye protection. • Frequency: Held every Tuesday.
• One hour lecture and one hour of shooting. Lecture from 630 pm to 730 pm-shooting 8 to 9 pm. • Students can return any time to shoot from 7 to 8 pm. • Advanced classes are offered 8 to 9 pm.
• Greeters are in parking lot to provide welcome invitation. • NRA Instructor teaching.
• NRA Range Safety Officers monitoring.
• NVFAC trained coaches to directly assist shooters in firearms safety, handgun manipulation and techniques.
• All first time shooters must use our handguns and shoot from bench rest position at 7 yard targets. • Returning shooters can bring own firearms (hand-guns, rifles and shotguns) and ammunition and may shoot other positions, use other targets and other distances. • Advanced topics are provided by outside clubs and organizations. Classes such as firearms cleaning, how to buy a firearm, as well as introductions to other women’s programs such as A Girl and A Gun, Well Armed Women, Women of High Caliber, and other topics such as introduction to wildlife management and introduction to muzzle loading, introduction to steel shooting, etc. are provided.
• Team members are being constantly recruited and trained. For each time a team member participates, they earn two credits. When they earn 50 credits, the NVFAC Foundation will pay the fees for them to take a NRA training programs.
Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 7
THE NRA YOUTH EDUCATION SUMMIT LOGO
Y.E.S. Class of 2017 gathered on the Capitol steps 8 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
Y.E.S. students enjoying their tour around D.C. stop to create a memories at the White House
by Abigail Klien, Event Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Every summer 80-100 outstanding high school students from all over the country share a week long educational fellowship in our nation’s capital while vying for college scholarships. Y.E.S. is open to high school sophomores and juniors across the nation who want to experience an unforgettable week in Washington, DC; developing as leaders, learning about US history and politics, and creating friendships that will last a lifetime. Since its inception in 1996, Y.E.S. has had 908 students from 49 state graduate the program, and has awarded more than $540,000 in college scholarships. Caitlyn Callaway, 2017 participant from Texas said “No matter how I try to explain the best week of my life, I am certain that the experience in itself is completely indescribable. What I can say is that the 2017 Youth Education Summit has changed me. I have deeper pride in my roots as an American, I have a better appreciation of the differences and similarities between people in this nation, and I now have a family with members from across this blessed nation. I will forever remember the lessons, experiences, and memories that I made at the 2017 National Rifle Association Youth Education Summit.” The NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.) encourages
young adults to become active citizens and leaders of tomorrow by learning about the Constitution and Bill of Rights, the federal government and the importance of engaging in civic affairs. Competitive team debates and casual current events discussions highlight the diverse backgrounds and beliefs of participants while fostering fellowship and respect. The program’s nonstop agenda also includes exciting activities and opportunities from meeting with members of Congress and visiting NRA Headquarters to touring historic sites and monuments in the D.C. area and reflecting on the dedicated service of the nation’s military. Y.E.S. week kicks off with a day at NRA headquarters
hearing from those that run some of NRA’s programs, and learning about how the Y.E.S. student can get involved or launch these programs in their local communities. A couple of the programs are: NRA University, Hunter Education, School Shield, and Refuse to be a Victim. Some of the highlights of NRA Day is a shooting lesson at the NRA Range, and perusing the National Firearms Museum. While in D.C students venture around Washington D.C. exploring the U.S. Capitol, The U.S. Supreme Court, The National Archives, the National American History Museum, The National Marine Corps Museum, Mount Vernon, and the Newseum (we can’t quite find the time to squeeze in any more museums). Visiting these significant American landmarks allow students to see firsthand where some of the biggest decisions in U.S. history were made, and physically see the founding documents of this country, including the Second Amendment! Additionally, students get to unearth more about our history, both politically and culturally, and how the Marine Corps has developed from its founding in 1775 to the present day. 10 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
There are several occasions during the week to honor the U.S. military. We do this by visiting the WWII Memorial, Iwo Jima Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and participating in a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. These moments are special to many Y.E.S. students, as many have family members who have served. The times of remembrance during Y.E.S. week help students understand the meaning of sacrificing for our country and the importance of becoming leaders for the next generation. Competition is steep in this pool of the best and brightest high school sophomores and juniors, so debates and current events discussions are always invigorating and enlighten. The current events discussions assist students to acquire new ideas from each other, ascertain more about new topics, and hear different viewpoints from those with varying upbringings. Team debates help to foster teamwork abilities, research capabilities, and leadership proficiencies. One student said that the most valued lesson they learned at Y.E.S. was that “not every leader is an outspoken, ambitious person like myself. There are many other types of leaders that still have the same potential and impact that I think of when I imagine a true leader.” Each week attendees will have the chance to compete for $15,000 in college scholarships based on their leadership skills, performances in debates and participation in current events discussions. Students may then compete for an additional $25,000 in scholarships after the summit by sharing their experiences with their communities. “I would recommend this program to anyone,” said former Y.E.S. participant Anna Sommers from Burlington, Wisconsin. “It’s an unforgettable experience that can’t fully be summed up in words. The friends I made and the knowledge I gained on this trip can be found nowhere else. This trip made me incredibly proud to be an American.” Gage Paris-CO, Emily Rasmussen-WI, and Stephen Garner-TX, pause for a moment while exploring Washington.
2018 has become the year of ATF compliance technology. Every day we hear from more and more FFL / SOTs who seek new methods to keep track of the ever-shifting state firearm regulation landscape. Technology has become the leading solution in assisting Federal Firearm Licensees in achieving a better understanding of state regulations and how those regulations are impacting their business transactions. In fact, the applications developed by Orchid Advisors and our industry partners provide instant feedback to the licensee on each state’s regulations that reduce the likelihood of human error that can lead to non-compliance when transacting with non-state residents. Helping Firearm Distributors and Dealers Understand State Firearm Laws Researching, interpreting, and tracking firearm laws across the United States can be maddening. If you sell firearms over the counter or distribute them across state lines, then this article is for you. While the following does not purport to address every nuance of the law, it was written to grossly simplify state firearm laws and aid in the compliant sale of such products. What Determines State Firearm Legality By State? Broadly speaking, there are four “logic gates” found in the pending and enacted statutes of the 50 U.S. states, Washington D.C. and the other U.S. territories such as Guam and Puerto Rico. Absent those logic gates, the determination of legality by firearm type, by state, by feature and by name presents a challenge – tens of thousands of potential combinations. However, these four logic gates help pair down the legal restriction quickly; weeding out those firearms that have little to no state restrictions so that the balance can be evaluated. For example, pistols and revolvers sold into in California immediately fall out of our analysis, eliminating the need for a features test. That’s because states like this specifically list permissible firearm sales – within the pistol and revolver class – on a public Roster. While other factors need to be addressed for Curios & Relics, NFA products (including short barreled rifles and suppressors, for example), ammunition and other products, the following applies to the GCA categories of firearms that include: pistol, revolver, rifle and shotgun. Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 11
There are four tests that we perform in evaluating the compliance of GCA firearms by state. They are shown in the red boxes above and are to be evaluated in the context of each geographic location, flowing from left to right. The four gates are filtration points by which a firearm can fall out of your analysis to arrive at an early determination. Roster Test Is the firearm to be sold in a state that has a roster? Is it on that roster? Generally speaking, this applies to handguns being sold in California, Maryland, Massachusetts and Washington, DC. This test is binary and requires that an employee read and determine if the firearm in question is listed on a roster. Named Model Test Is the firearm to be sold specifically named by any combination of Manufacturer, Model, Part Number, SKU or UPC? In most cases, the named identification consists of a Manufacturer and Model designation but may also list additional features. This test is binary and also requires that an employee read and determine if the firearm in question is named by the State. Disqualifying Features Test There are approximately 10 [core] features evaluated in this logic gate. But, the test begins with consideration for the firearm Type and location previously selected. Why? This is because, and thank goodness for the industry, there are a number of states which have very few restrictions at all. For example, Alabama and Alaska do not have any laws** precluding the sale of a new, unmodified rifle and therefore bypass not only this Disqualifying Features Test, but also the subsequent Disqualifying Attributes Test. Regardless, the 10 features disqualification test break down into three categories of Action (e.g., Semi-Auto, Pump, etc.), Cartridge (Rimfire vs Centerfire) and Magazine (e.g., Nature of attachment, capacity, etc.). (**Notwithstanding other laws and regulations such as to whom I can sell to, the age of the buyer, qualifications of the background check and other such matters). Disqualifying Attributes Test There are approximately 30 attributes evaluated in this final logic gate. To complicate matters, some of the states have specific rules about not only the feature presented, but the quantity of features. For example, a rifle otherwise deemed legal to sell in Massachusetts (prior to this final test) would fail if two or more of seven named attributes were part of the firearm. The restrictions by attribute, by type of firearm and state generally is limited to no more than 3 of any particular attribute. How Do I Practically Research all Laws and Stay Current? “Thank you! This does grossly simplify state firearm laws. But wait. How do I practically stay on top of this?” Yes, the laws change. Yes, they are not well-organized nor presented consistently across the United States. Yes, new SKUs are brought to market each year by the manufacturers. This means that the matrix of state firearm laws is an ever moving target – no pun intended. Fortunately, there are a number of tools available to assist. NRA-ILA News The National Rifle Association – Institute for Legislative Action provides NRA members with updates on pending and enacted bills at both the federal and state level.
12 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
NSSF Legislative Tracker The National Shooting Sports Foundation provides its members with a Bill tracker so that the industry can stay abreast of pending and recently enacted legislation. NASGW / Orchid Advisors State Firearm Research App These organizations teamed to create a web-based, “Point-and-Click” application that permits users to enter the firearm type, the location, and the features and attributes named above, and receive an instant response as to its legality. And, responses are accompanied by a link directly to the applicable section of the State laws and regulations. This tool is available for free to NASGW members and at a small cost to paid subscribers. The Orchid Advisors State Restrictions Software App Recognizing the computer-driven nature of today’s firearm supply chain, the team at Orchid Advisors took it one step further. This application allows small and high-volume businesses to electronically send a signal (through what’s called an “API”), directly from their eCommerce, ERP or POS system and receive an instant response. Imagine your customers getting instantaneous feedback on the legality of a firearm before – not after – an online checkout. Will Tracking State Firearm Laws Ever Get Easier? Well, if I was holding a crystal ball, I would say no. At least not at the state level. It takes an act of Congress – sometimes literally – to change Federal firearm laws, but things move a little quicker at the state level. For that reason, it’s important to develop your own internal understanding of these laws, on a spreadsheet for example, or connect to a tool that can do all the work for you so that you can focus on making and selling firearms in a compliant manner. NRA Business Alliance Members – Discounted Access As an NRA Business Alliance Member, you receive discounted access to both the State Firearms Research App and the State Restrictions Software. Powered by the experts at Orchid Advisors, the firearm industry’s #1 team in FFL Compliance, these tools are hosted on FFLBizHub.com, the industry’s only on-line portal that provides access to compliance and business tools, technology and training.
Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 13
Announcing the 2017 George Montgomery/ NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest Winners! The 30th Annual George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest was held this past December at NRA Headquarters in Fairfax, Virginia, and featured incredible entries submitted by young artists from all over the United States. Begun in 1987, the Youth Wildlife Art Contest challenges students to create exceptional works of art depicting North American wildlife and offers $7,000 in cash prizes. The contest started out small with a specific goal: to foster young artists’ enthusiasm for the outdoors through letting them practice their animal identification skills and expand their knowledge on the continent’s indigenous wildlife. Over the years the contest has grown in size substantially and many past winners have gone on to make successful careers as professional artists. It makes us proud that the contest’s message has resonated with young artists, who carefully study an animal and hone their techniques to not just accurately depict a species, but to give their entry life. The Youth Wildlife Art Contest is open to any student
in grades 1 through 12, including home-schooled children, and does not require NRA membership to participate. Any North American game bird or animal that may be legally hunted or trapped is eligible to be depicted. Endangered species and non-game animals, such as eagles and snakes, are not eligible subjects. In an effort to level the field of competition and recognize skilled artists of all ages besides the most talented high school seniors, the contest is divided into four categories based on the entrant’s school grade. Although many artist begin at different ages and advance at varying rates, grade-based categories are easiest way to fairly group artists with similar skills. Each category is judged by a carefully selected panel, who evaluate entries on effort, creativity, technique, anatomical accuracy, and composition. Judges select first, second, and third place entries in each category, which receive respective prizes of $750, $500, and $250. A Best In Show award, selected from among all entries across all categories, receives a $1,000 prize.
Clockwise from above left to right: The Category I First Place winner is “Portrait of a Mountain Bighorn” by Eden Yuen of Dublin, CA. Eden is in 3rd Grade and is 8 years old. The Category I Second Place winner is “The Deer” by Elaine Huang of Gilbert, AZ. Elaine is in 3rd Grade and is 9 years old. The Category I Third Place winner is “Goose” by Jeremiah Duncan of Hendersonville, NC. Jeremiah is in 2nd Grade and is 7 years old. 14 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
Clockwise from above left to right:
The Category II First Place winner is “Prince Raccoon” by Janice Lee of Euless, TX. Janice is in 5th Grade and is 10 years old. The Category II Second Place winner is “The Fox Behind the Grass” by Wendy Jiang of Riverside, CA. Wendy is in 6th Grade and is 11 years old. The Category II Third Place winner is “The Messenger of Spring” by Emily Mu of Gaithersburg, MD. Emily is in 6th Grade and is 11 years old. Counter clockwise from left: The Category III First Place winner is “Face Off ” by Emma Vande Vort of Lynden, WA. Emma is in 9th Grade and is 15 years old. The Category III Second Place winner is “Lonely Woods” by Edward Kim of Irving, TX. Edward is in 8th Grade and is 13 years old. The Category III Third Place winner is “Feline” by Emily Shaw of Murphy, TX. Emily is in 8th Grade and is 13 years old.
Clockwise from top left: The Category IV First Place winner is “The Seeker” by Hunter Blaze Pearson of Agoura Hills, CA. Hunter is in 12th Grade and is 17 years old. The Category IV Second Place winner is “Piercing Beauty” by Christina Bias of Harrisburg, PA. Christina is in 12th Grade and is 18 years old. The Category IV Third Place winner is “Midday” by David Lee of Colony, TX. David is in 12th Grade and is 19 years old.
For more information on the George Montgomery/NRA Youth Wildlife Art Contest including images of the previous years' winning pieces, please visit https://artcontest.nra.org. Want To Know More? Contact us at 703-267-1589 or email artcontest@nrahq.org.
Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 17
by Phil Phillips, Contributor, American Hunter Magazine Here’s another great example of the fantastic work the NRA is doing for hunting and hunters. You probably haven’t heard that in August 2017 the NRA launched a free online hunter education course, nrahe.org, in Florida, in partner-ship with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Since then, Oregon, Connecticut, and Texas have gone live. As we know, Texas remains one of the most pro-hunting states in the Union so for Texas to adopt the program early on says a lot for the quality of the course. The NRA’s goal is to be in all 50 states within five years. From the early momentum, I would not be surprised for the NRA to beat that goal. “We are excited that Oregon and now Connecticut have joined the NRA Hunter Education family,” said The NRA. “By allowing our course to be offered, all of the residents in these states have access to the best online hunter education for free. We hope all states follow that path so every U.S. citizen can take advantage of this opportunity.” As for why I think the NRA Hunter Education Course is so im18 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
portant, in today’s busy world both parents work. It’s tougher than ever to find the time to set aside a weekend or even a full day to go somewhere to take a hunter education course, especially when they are available on limited dates. Spearheading hunter education is nothing new for the NRA. In case you are not aware, it was the NRA that worked with the state of New York in 1949 to develop America’s first ever state-based hunter education course. Other states quickly adopted it and the rest is history. In fact, years ago our hunter education cards actually read, “NRA Hunter safety.” Creating a free online course was the natural next step for the NRA and one that could go far in recruiting new hunters. In 2015, The NRA began examining current hunter education courses, including state agency and DNR-based programs as well as those offered by businesses that charged a fee. The conclusion: Hunter education programs in general were not engaging, were available on limited dates and could run up to $29.99 per person. The answer: Offer an online
course for free that met every state’s specific requirements so it could be approved for use in all 50 states. In step with International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) curriculum guidelines, the NRA course consists of 15 online chapters featuring the relatively new science of Instructional Design to present material. Each chapter ends with a series of questions. At the end, students take a test requiring a score of 80 percent or higher to pass. The entire online course takes roughly five to eight hours. After completion, many state DNRs require a “field day” to test firearm proficiency before students receive their hunter education certification. To me it’s obvious why the NRA is the No. 1 hunters' organization in America. The free online hunter education course is just one of numerous safety, education and training opportunities the NRA provides to the hunting community. For more information on this course and to learn how to help it be adopted in your state, call 800-492-4868 or email hservices@nrahq.org.
Why Every Hunter Should Be an NRA Member No organization is on the front lines fighting for American hunters like the NRA. I was barely out of high school when I scraped together the money to buy my annual membership 30 years ago. Though back then I was only hunting with a bow and remain primarily a bowhunter, I certainly enjoyed owning and shooting my firearms. I was quick to tell the guys at my archery club why they needed to join, too, and soon upgraded to a Life membership. The message here was that if anti-gunners were ever able to restrict our firearm rights, our hunting rights would be next.
What most hunters don’t realize still today is how much the NRA has done to protect hunting rights, not just locally and federally but also internationally. So as an NRA Life member, I’m proud to support the NRA, which is there for every American hunter— NRA members and non-members alike—working for the collective hunting community. Not only is the NRA Institute for Legislative Action defending hunters and hunting and addressing the threats to hunting’s future 24/7, but NRA Hunter Services is there to make sure we hunters have the landmark hunter safety, education and training programs available to help us remain
safe, skilled and responsible sportsmen in the field. To join the NRA, call 800-672-3888 or visit nra.org. If you’re already a member... ...sign up a friend.
Need assistance in improving your range? Sign up for the Range Development & Operations Conference at https://rangeservices.nra.org/development-training/range-development-operations-conference/ The next Range Development and Operations Conference will be in Denver, Colorado October 6-8.
2018 RANGE DEVELOPMENT & OPERATIONS CONFERENCE
RANGE TECHNICAL TEAM
Maintaining America’s existing shooting ranges and developing new ones are one of the NRA’s top priorities to ensure the survival of the shooting sports. Created to provide an extension of NRA Headquarters to range owners and operators at the local level, the NRA Range Technical Team is a nationwide network of volunteers trained in the field of shooting range development, design, and operations.
The conference is designed to educate potential and current range owners and operators in identifying potential problems associated with range development, environmental issues, and safety. Attendees will receive a multidisciplinary perspective on major topics, such as:
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Range Safety
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EPA Lead Standards
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Law Enforcement
• Grants
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Master Planning
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NRA Programs
• Construction
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Range Maintenance
• Insurance Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 19
Eddie Eagle
Celebrates
30 Years!
by Eric Lipp, National Manager, Community Outreach The National Rifle Association's Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program is celebrating its 30th Anniversary in 2018! In the program’s three decades of outreach, more than 30 million children across the United States have learned NRA’s simple, effective firearm accident prevention principles. Impacting approximately a million children a year, the Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program has been collectively utilized by more than 28,000 schools, law enforcement agencies, and civic groups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, unintentional firearm fatalities among elementary aged children have declined almost 80 percent since the program’s debut. Created in 1988 by former NRA President Marion P. Hammer, the Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program is a gun accident prevention program developed by a task force made up of educators, school administrators, curriculum specialists, urban housing safety officials, clinical psychologists, law enforcement officials, and National Rifle Association firearm safety experts. The program was founded with one mission: to teach children four simple, easy to remember steps so they know what to do if they ever come across a gun -- STOP! Don't Touch. Run Away. Tell a Grown Up. NRA will be celebrating Eddie’s 30th Anniversary throughout the year which kicked off at NRA’s Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, PA. The Eddie Eagle Kid Zone expanded this year to add more activities and prizes than before to commemorate Eddie’s milestone. Thousands of children visited the Eddie Eagle Kid Zone with well over 1,600 families taking home the Eddie Eagle DVD. The fun animated video teaches kids if they see a gun to: STOP! Don’t Touch. Run Away. Tell A Grown Up. The Eddie Eagle Kid Zone included activities and games such as basketball, wildlife identification, arts and crafts, and a station to learn about Eddie Eagle and take home his safety materials. Children who participated in activities took home over 5,000 Eddie Eagle prizes including: 1,200 Eddie Eagle basketballs, 1,000 Eddie Eagle fidget spinners, stuffed Eddie Eagle dolls, and much more. To help celebrate Eddie Eagle’s anniversary, the Kid Zone also had several birthday parties throughout the week where kids could meet Eddie and take their picture with him; while also enjoying a cupcake. Eddie’s parties also featured over 1,000 cupcakes for children in attendance to enjoy while celebrating with Eddie. It was a great week full of celebrating safety and fun. The Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program will continue the celebration throughout the year including a stop at NRA Annual Meetings & Convention in Dallas, TX. The program will continue to focus on its primary mission: teaching kids its lifesaving message. With the support and help from communities across the country, Eddie Eagle will continue to share the program message to children for many years to come. 20 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
Celebrating 25 years of Safety! by Mina Klier, RTBAV Program Coordinator For 25 years, Refuse To Be A Victim® has been dedicated to helping people avoid becoming victims of crime. Whether it’s personal safety, cyber security, home security, or travel safety, Refuse To Be A Victim® provides a comprehensive look at how to create layers of security in your life to decrease your chances of a criminal confrontation. The program was created in 1993 by the women of the NRA in response to women who requested crime prevention and personal safety information. These women saw a rise in violent crimes against women and wanted something for women, by women, to prepare and protect themselves against criminal confrontations. With this goal in mind, the Women’s Policy Committee of the NRA and female NRA staff members began developing the now award winning crime prevention program, Refuse To Be A Victim®. In 1997, the NRA Board of Directors voted to extend the program to men as the value of the information is something for everyone. The program is an extension of the NRA’s commitment for more than 130 years to safety education and the right for Americans
to make themselves and their families, safe. Seminars are held across the country every day teaching the lifesaving message of RTBAV to communities. The seminars typically last 3-4 hours and each attendee receives a 64-page Student Handbook to take home. The handbook contains several tips and strategies on crime prevention including a section on personal protection devices. The seminar does not cover firearms as the program was created to teach safety techniques anyone can utilize. However, there is a separate one-page Firearm Supplement for those who might consider a firearm as part of their personal safety plan. Throughout the duration of the program, RTBAV has gained over 7,000 instructors, several law enforcement partnerships, and the praise of thousands of have attended. Refuse To Be A Victim® is looking forward to celebrating 25 years of continuing to provide vital and current safety information. To locate a seminar near you, visit rtbav.nra.org using the search feature at the bottom or contact refuse@nrahq.org.
Join the thousands of NRA certified instructors, affiliated clubs, independent businesses and dedicated members who are already participating in NRA membership recruiting. This program provides a great opportunity for you to not only strengthen the NRA by increasing membership, but also to earn up to $25 for every new and renewing membership at the same time! There is no cost to enroll, so get started and apply today! Program participants are furnished with NRA recruiting materials and online recruiting tools for free, as well as effective recruiting tips and techniques. Apply to become an Official NRA Recruiter today at https://recruiting.nra.org! Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 21
NRA Proudly Announces the Inaugural NRA 100K Challenge!
The Goal: Strengthen the NRA Inspired by all of the passionate men and women who have committed themselves to preserving our firearm freedoms while encouraging others to do the same, the NRA has proudly launched the inaugural NRA 100K Challenge. The Goal of the NRA 100K Challenge is to strengthen the NRA by 100,000 members within 100 days. It boils down to one idea: don’t underestimate the power of individual voices joining together to make an impact. The battle to defend our Second Amendment may be tough, but NRA members are steadfast in their commitment to each other and to our organization
The Strategy: Exercise your voice
The driving force of the NRA 100K Challenge lies within your very own community, specifically the online community. It provides a platform for meaningful interaction between your friends, family, club and range members, training officers, instructors and countless Second Amendment supporters. Share your thoughts and opinions about the Second Amendment, the NRA and the 100K Challenge by posting www.nra.org/100kchallenge on your social media accounts. Your action within the NRA 100K Challenge has a direct impact on restoring our Second Amendment rights, protecting ourselves and the people we love. Bringing a new member on board is one of the most important ways you can be involved with the NRA, and personally introducing someone to our organization will prove to be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have as a member.
The Action Plan: Spread the Word, Share the Mission
Visit www.nra.org/100kchallenge to join or renew your membership at a discounted rate, and help us like, share and tweet the way to 100K! Post the NRA100K Challenge link www.nra.org/100kchallenge to your social media pages as well or include in your emails, newsletters and club pages. Amp up the action and encourage your club members to do the same on their individual social media accounts. Seek out the efforts of others by searching “NRA 100K Challenge” on Facebook or Twitter. For more information, contact Kara Kelly at kkelly@nrahq.org. 22 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
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Contributions, gifts, or membership dues made or paid to the National Rifle Association of America are not refundable or transferable and are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks for processing of membership.
Membership starts the day of processing of dues payments by NRA. Three dollars and seventy-five cents of the annual membership fee is designated for magazine subscription. Insurance benefits are subject to the conditions contained in the Master Policy on file at NRA headquarters at the time a claim arises. There are special exclusions and limitations to such policy. Furthermore, NRA and the Insurers specifically reserve the right to alter or change any conditions in the Master Policy, including, but not limited to, reductions in the amount of coverage, and the cancellation or non-renewal of such policy. Annual Junior members are not eligible for insurance benefits. Affinity card available for applicants who meet all the credit criteria. The moving discount is off the Interstate Commerce Commission approved tariff rate. For specific state by state disclosures, please visit http://www.nra.org/NRA-UniformDisclosureStatement.pdf Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 23
by Connor McKibbin, Assistant Editor, American Hunter Magazine The Great American Outdoor Show not only had a plethora of educational seminars from which to learn, but several activities were available for event-goers to experience as well. One of the most underrated, yet most hands-on, events was the Casting Competition. I caught up with last year’s state champion, 10-year-old Bowden Woodward, a local Pennsylvania resident who gave me some tips and tricks on how to properly cast and optimize success rates. “The most important thing for me, and the easiest way to accurately place a line, is to string out the line, and flip it underhand rather than overhand,” said Bowden as he was waiting in line for his chance to compete in the competition again. “The most challenging part, though, is staying focused.” After watching Bowden, who’s been fishing with his grandpa since he was 2, perform again this year and noticing his form, it’s clear he’s no novice at casting a line. He practices about 13 hours a week, and his dad told me that if he has the time—he does his best to ensure he does—he’ll go out to the pond and fish in the mornings before school. He even has teachers at school who ask him to tie flies for them. Bowden has also taught his little brother, Jettik, how to fish. Along with Bowden, I also talked to Chris Trianosky, the Pennsylvania State Bass Fishing Club President. He and his team were there helping coach the kids as they competed. Trianosky, a 17-year fishing veteran, explained that he and his team try to help competitors improve not only their focus, but their hand-eye coordination by keeping their eyes on the target while simultaneously working on their hand control and arm movement. But helping coach the kids is only part of the enjoyment. “The most rewarding thing is to see their excitement of their performance and competitive spirit,” Trianosky said. The Casting Competition is put together by the Pennsylvania Bass Federation, and it’s no small event. After speaking with Barry Potteiger, the Federation’s coordinator, he explained that every year since its inception, the competition has grown. This year, the competition provided 800 rods to the participants, with each competitor getting to keep their rod as a commemorative prize. First, second and third places each get a trophy, an upgraded rod and a Cabela’s gift card, too. Scores for this year’s event are still being tabulated at the time of this writing, but the competition was stiff. We’ll see if Bowden can ride the wave of momentum from last year’s win to another state championship. 24 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
Fun at the Air Gun Range!
by Kristen Voss, Assistant Editor, Digital - American Rifleman Magazine The Great American Outdoor Show is and always has been a family event...and what's a family event without fun activities perfect for every member of your NRA Family? From outdoor gear, to hunting, fishing, firearms, food and everything in between, you are sure to find your niche. But no matter your age, there is a little kid in everyone...and that little kid is sure to appear when you step on the firing line at the NRA Air Gun Range. The Air Gun Range, tucked in a corner of the Outdoor Lifestyle Hall, was free for all ages. This year, every air gun was a PCP air rifle instead of a combination of break-barrel and PCP, making it easier for everyone to enjoy. There are also Air Venturi compressors on site to keep the carbon tanks full in order to transfer air. It’s also very safe too, as you can imagine. There are always range safety officers on the line (one per shooter), and everyone must put safety glasses on before getting to the firing line. With close to 700 people cycling through the range, you can imagine how popular it was. However, wait times were never long as staff rotated people fairly quickly...but you don’t have to feel in a rush either. Once you sit down and put the rifle up to your shoulder, you will feel like a little kid again and not want to leave. I know I did when I stepped up to the firing line to take my turn. It’s an
endless amount of fun as you can choose which targets you want to shoot, ranging from colorful bottles, to moving paper targets, to knock-down targets. It’s definitely a must-do at the show for the entire family.
For more information on the NRA's Great American Outdoor Show, go to https://www.greatamericanoutdoorshow.org Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 25
Teams Up with NRA
to Bring YHEC to Nashville
By Robert L. Davis, Jr., National Manager, NRA Outdoor Recreational Programs Department
With the rain gone, it's time for these kids to try their hand at some moving clay targets! 26 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
As torrential rains subsided and a sunny day dawned in Nashville, Tenn., crowds gathered at the Nashville Gun Club for the Nashville Youth Hunter Education Challenge (YHEC) on March 17, 2018. Hosted by the Sportsmen’s Alliance and the NRA, the daylong event welcomed youth participants from as far as Alabama and ranging in age from elementary school to high school to take part in activities including Sporting Clays, 3-D Archery, Hunter Safety Trail, Sporting Dog and Birds of Prey Demonstrations. For some participants, the day of educational and fun events was their first time taking part in shooting and outdoor skills activities. Breaking into small groups of five, the youths formed teams that were able to spend quality time going through each event.
Under the watchful eye of an adult, youngsters learn best practices in fence crossing while carrying firearms.
After a buffet lunch at the Nashville Gun Club Pavilion, the participants and volunteers continued to enjoy the 70-degree weather as the teams completed their event schedule. To remember their YHEC experience, all participants received a swag bag with a hat, a t-shirt and other outdoor related items courtesy of the Sportsmen’s Alliance and the NRA. “I have been a long-time NRA member and was so very pleased a YHEC was put on at the Nashville Gun Club,” said Heath Barker of Gallatin, Tenn. “I am an NRA Certified Instructor as well and was glad to see the Sportsmen’s Alliance and NRA conducting these types of events. My kids had a blast and are already looking forward to the next one! Thank you for your time and patience putting this event together. It is greatly appreciated.” Daniel Wilde of Lebanon, Tenn., shared that enthusiasm. “It was a pleasure to see the Sportsmen’s
Alliance and the NRA host the YHEC event here in Nashville,” he remarked. “It was a pleasure helping your team, and I appreciate what you all do!”
“Hopefully, this was the first of many collaborative efforts between the Sportsmen’s Alliance and NRA on outdoor educational programming for the next generation of hunters and shooters,” said Frank Price, director of education for the Sportsmen’s Alliance. “Today’s participants are walking away with a great experience, and a solid foundation upon which to build.” The Youth Hunter Education Challenge was created by the NRA in 1985 to build upon skills learned in basic hunter education courses and encourage safer, lifelong hunting habits. Since its inception, more than 1.3 Spring 2018 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • 27
NRA Instructors introduce participants to the different types of shotguns. (i.e.: semi-automatic, pump, and over/under)
million youth have taken part in the program. YHEC gives kids 18 and under the opportunity to gain handson marksmanship, outdoor and hunting skills and to further their safety skills before they take to the field. The YHEC program continues to produce the most safe, responsible and educated hunters in the field today! A big “Thank You” to the Sportsmen’s Alliance for its support and sponsorship of this program’s efforts to continue the preservation of youth hunter education and the shooting sports. For more information about the YHEC program or if you would like to host an event, please contact
28 • NRA CLUB CONNECTION • Spring 2018
YHEC State/Local Manager Monty Embrey at membrey@nrahq.org or call (703) 267-1503.
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NRA Affiliated State Associations AL STATE RIFLE & PISTOL ASS'N Address Currently Unavailable 256-534-7968 Website Currently Unavailable
ID STATE RIFLE & PISTOL ASS’N PO Box 140293 Boise, ID 83714-0293 208-452-0293 www.idahosrpa.org
MN RIFLE & REVOLVER ASS'N, INC. P.O. Box 143 Farmington, MN 55024 320-968-6898 www.mrra.org
AK OUTDOOR COUNCIL, INC. 310 K St Ste 200 Anchorage, AK 99501 907-264-6645 www.alaskaoutdoorcouncil.org
IL STATE RIFLE ASS'N, INC. P.O. Box 637 420 E. Locust St. Chatsworth, IL 60921 815-635-3198 www.isra.org
MS STATE FIREARM OWNERS ASS'N PO Box 1061 McComb, MS 39649 601-341-8797 msfoa.tripod.com
AZ STATE RIFLE & PISTOL ASS'N P.O. Box 301 Cave Creek, AZ 85327 480-433-8047 www.asrpa.com
IN STATE RIFLE & PISTOL ASS'N, INC. Address Currently Unavailable 812-534-3258 www.isrpa.org
MO SPORT SHOOTING ASS’N P.O. Box 209 Winfield, MO 63389-1155 314-440-3811 www.missourisportshooting.org
AR RIFLE & PISTOL ASS’N P.O. Box 272 Clarksville, AR 72830 501-327-4702 www.arpa-online.org
IA STATE RIFLE & PISTOL ASS’N 240 Prospect Road North Liberty, IA 52317-9660 319-626-2710 www.iasrpa.org
MT RIFLE & PISTOL ASS’N P.O. Box 48 Ramsay, MT 59748 406-868-4181 www.mtrpa.org
CA RIFLE & PISTOL ASS'N, INC. 271 E Imperial Hwy Ste 620 Fullerton, CA 92835 714-992-2772 www.crpa.org
KS STATE RIFLE ASS'N P.O. Box 219 Bonner Springs, KS 66012 913-608-1910 www.ksraweb.org
NE MARKSMANSHIP ASS’N PO Box 390311 Omaha, NE 68139 402-933-4881 www.nemarksmanship.org
CO STATE SHOOTING ASS'N 609 W Littleton Blvd Ste 206 Littleton, CO 80120 720-283-1376 www.cssa.org
LEAGUE of KY SPORTSMEN, INC. 116 Hume Rd Lexington, KY 40516 859-858-0135 www.kentuckysportsmen.com
NV FIREARMS COALITION 5575 Simmons St, Ste I-176 North Las Vegas, NV 89031 702-353-5935 www.nvfac.org
CT STATE RIFLE & REVOLVER ASS'N P.O. Box 754 North Haven, CT 06473 860-480-4600 www.csrra.com
LA SHOOTING ASS'N 350 Quill Ct. Slidell, LA 70461 985-781-4174 www.louisianashooting.com
GUN OWNERS OF NH, INC. P.O. Box 847 Concord, NH 03302-0487 603-225-4664 www.gonh.org
DE STATE SPORTSMEN’S ASS'N P.O. Box 94 Lincoln, DE 19960 302-764-6899 www.dssa.us
ME PINE TREE STATE R&P ASS'N, INC 14 Pine Road Wiscasset, ME 04578 207-882-4713 www.mainerpa.org
ASS'N OF NJ R&P CLUBS, INC. 5 Sicomac Rd Ste 292 North Haledon, NJ 07508 973-764-4100 www.anjrpc.org
FL SPORT SHOOTING ASS'N, INC. 4105 Saltwater Blvd Tampa, FL 33615 407-701-1030 www.fssaf.wildapricot.org
MD STATE RIFLE & PISTOL ASS'N 341 Whitfield Rd Catonsville, MD 21228 410-838-1734 www.msrpa.org
NM SHOOTING SPORTS ASS'N, INC. P.O. Box 20787 Albuquerque, NM 87154 505-286-8449 www.nmssa.org
GA SPORT SHOOTING ASS’N PO Box 1733 Macon, GA 31202 478-955-7068 www.gssainc.org
(MA) GUN OWNERS’ ACTION LEAGUE
PO Box 567, 361 W Main St Northboro, MA 01606 508-393-5333 www.goal.org
NY STATE R&P ASS’N, INC. 90 S. Swan Street Suite 395 Albany, NY 12210 518-272-2654 www.nysrpa.org
HI RIFLE ASSOCIATION PO Box 543 Kailua, HI 96734 808-306-7194 www.hawaiirifleassociation.org
MI RIFLE & PISTOL ASS’N P.O. Box 71 Marshall, MI 49068-0071 269-781-1223 www.michrpa.com
NC RIFLE & PISTOL ASS’N P.O. Box 4116 Pinehurst, NC 28374 910-295-7220 www.ncrpa.org
NRA Clubs & Associations • 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030 • clubs.nra.org
NRA Affiliated State Associations ND SHOOTING SPORTS ASS'N P.O. Box 228 Bismarck, ND 58502 701-255-4601 www.ndssa.org
UT STATE RIFLE & PISTOL ASS’N 2718 E. 9725 South Sandy, UT 84092-3405 801-942-6529 Website Currently Unavailable
OH RIFLE & PISTOL ASS’N PO Box 1201 Morehead, KY 40351-5201 513-426-7944 www.orpa.net
VT FED'N OF SPRTMN’S CLUBS, INC. PO Box 225 Lyndonville, VT 05851 802-535-7111 www.vtfsc.org
OK RIFLE ASS'N P.O. Box 280 Maud, OK 74854-0280 405-374-8262 www.oklarifle.org
VA SHOOTING SPORTS ASS’N P.O. Box 1258 Orange, VA 22960 540-672-5848 www.myvssa.org
OR STATE SHOOTING ASS’N P.O. Box 231191 Portland, OR 97281-1161 541-409-3358 www.ossa.org
WA STATE R&P ASS'N, INC. Address Currently Unavailable 206-427-8257 www.wsrpa.net
PA RIFLE & PISTOL ASS'N Address Currently Unavailable 814-236-0708 www.pennarifleandpistol.org
WV SRPA PO Box 553 Charles Town, WV 25414 304-783-5381 www.wvasrpa.org
GUN RIGHTS & SAFETY ASS'N OF PR PO Box 191919 San Juan, PR 00919-1919 787-691-1919 www.grsapr.org
WI F.O.R.C.E. PO Box 130 Seymour, WI 54165 607-799-3539 www.wi-force.org
RI 2ⁿd AMENDMENT COALITION 928 Atwood Ave Johnston, RI 02919 401-944-1600 www.ri2nd.org
WY STATE SHOOTING ASS'N, INC. Address Currently Unavailable 307-335-9323 www.wyossa.com
GUN OWNERS OF SC P.O. Box 211 Little Mountain, SC 29075 803-345-5761 www.gosc.org SD SHOOTING SPORTS ASS'N PO Box 3 Dell Rapids, SD 57022 605-428-5488 www.sdshootingsports.org TN SHOOTING SPORTS ASS'N, INC. 6653 Jocelyn Hollow Road Nashville, TN 37205 615-791-1879 www.tennesseeshootingsportsassociation.org
TX STATE RIFLE ASS'N 8411 N. IH 35 Austin, TX 78753 512-615-4200 www.tsra.com
NRA Clubs & Associations • 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030 • clubs.nra.org
NRA Field Representative Directory EASTERN REGION Eastern Regional Director
Bryan Hoover
Area 1 (ME, NH, VT)
Brian Smith
Area 2 (NY) Bruce McGowan
bhoover@nrahq.org bsmith@nrahq.org bmcgowan@nrahq.org
Area 3 (CT, MA, RI, NJ, Lower NY)
Craig Decker
cdecker@nrahq.org
Area 4 (DE, Eastern PA)
Kory Enck
kenck@nrahq.org
Area 5 (Western PA)
Thomas Baldrige
tbaldridge@nrahq.org
Area 7 (WV, Western VA, Western MD)
Jim Kilgore
jkilgore@nrahq.org
Area 12 (Southern OH)
David Graham
dgraham@nrahq.org
Area 45 (DC, Eatern MD, Eastern VA)
David Wells
dwells@nrahq.org
Area 49 (Northern OH)
Marc Peugeot
mpeugeot@nrahq.org
Central Regional Director
Chad Franklin
cfranklin@nrahq.org
Area 13 (Northern MO)
Travis Scott
tscott@nrahq.org
CENTRAL REGION
Area 14 (IN) Craig Haggard
chaggard@nrahq.org
Area 15 (KY) John LaRowe
jlarowe@nrahq.org
Area 17 (WI) Scott Taetsch
staetsch@nrahq.org
Area 18 (Northern IL)
Michael Huber
mhuber@nrahq.org
Area 19 (MO)
Tim Besancenez
Area 23 (IA, NE)
Tim Bacon
Area 51 (MI) Allan Herman Area 52 (Southern IL)
tbesancenez@nrahq.org tbacon@nrahq.org aherman@nrahq.org
Donald Higgs
dhiggs@nrahq.org
Southern Regional Director
Al Hammond
ahammond@nrahq.org
Area 8 (Eastern NC)
Garland B. Storey III
ledwards@nrahq.org
Area 9 (SC)
Freeman Coleman
fcoleman@nrahq.org
SOUTHERN REGION
Area 10 (GA) Neely Raper Area 11 (Northern FL)
Bret Eldridge
Area 16 (LA) Chad Bowen Area 22 (AL, MS)
Gene Newman
Area 42 (Western NC)
Doug Merrill
nraper@nrahq.org beldridge@nrahq.org cbowen@nrahq.org gnewman@nrahq.org dmerrill@nrahq.org
Area 43 (TN) Mike Webb
mwebb@nrahq.org
Area 48 (Southern FL)
tknight@nrahq.org
Tom Knight
NRA Clubs & Associations • 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030 • clubs.nra.org
NRA Field Representative Directory MID WEST REGION Mid West Regional Director
Tom Ulik
tulik@nrahq.org
Area 20 (OK) Darren DeLong Area 24 (KS) VACANT
ddelong@nrahq.org ----------------------------------------------
Area 25 (Northern TX)
Kevin Post
kpost@nrahq.org
Area 44 (Eastern TX)
Liz Foley
efoley@nrahq.org
Area 26 (Southern TX)
Tyler Ward
tward@nrahq.org
Area 27 (NM) Michael Guilliams Area 30 (CO) Brad Dreier
mguilliams@nrahq.org bdrier@nrahq.org
Area 39 (AR) Erica Willard-Dunn
ewillard@nrahq.org
Area 47 (Western TX)
Jack Cannon
jcannon@nrahq.org
Brad Kruger
bkruger@nrahq.org
WESTERN REGION Western Regional Director
Area 21 (MN) Eric Linder
elinder@nrahq.org
Area 28 (MT) Joseph Crismore
jcrismore@nrahq.org
Area 29 (WY) Logan Duff
lduff@nrahq.org
Area 33 (ID) Steve Vreeland
svreeland@nrahq.org
Area 34 (HI, OR)
Mike Carey
mcarey@nrahq.org
Area 38 (Southern AK)
Greg Stephens
gstephens@nrahq.org
Area 40 (WA) Michael Herrera
mherrera@nrahq.org
Area 41 (ND, SD)
Doug DeLaRoi
ddelaroi@nrahq.org
Area 53 (Northern AK)
Josh Toennessen
jtoennessen@nrahq.org
SOUTHWESTERN REGION Southwestern Regional Director
Jason Quick
jquick@nrahq.org
Area 6 (NV) Steve Wilson
swilson@nrahq.org
Area 31 (AZ) Winston Pendelton
wpendelton@nrahq.org
Area 32 (UT) Jim Reardon
jreardon@nrahq.org
Area 35 (Northern CA)
Daniel Wilhelm
dwilhelm@nrahq.org
Area 36 (Southern CA)
Mike Davis
mdavis@nrahq.org
Area 37 (Central CA)
Paul Rodarmel
Area 46 (Eastern CA)
Cole Beverly
cbeverly@nrahq.org
Area 50 (Mid California)
Sheila Boer
sboer@nrahq.org
prodarmel@nrahq.org
NRA Clubs & Associations • 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030 • clubs.nra.org
Nonprofit Org U.S. POSTAGE PAID Dulles, VA Permit No. 67
Recreational Programs & Ranges 11250 Waples Mill Road Fairfax, VA 22030
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