The Outdoor Message March 2012

MAR 2012 VOL. 33 NO. 3

New England’s most active outdoor people

The Official News Publication of Gun Owners’ Action League

They Call Them The Maspenock Junior Rifle League

$1.50

by Michael D. Yacino

In my quest to visit clubs that sponsor junior programs, this one brings five different clubs together. It was a very sunny day with no snow on the ground.

Believe it or not it was on February 4, 2012 in Massachusetts, specifically at the Southborough Rod and Gun Club indoor range. Coaches were up at 5 AM getting ready for the first relay which went off without a hitch at 8 AM sharp. It was the first match of 2012 and before the day would end nearly 40 young athletes would get their chance to demonstrate shooting prowess.

The Maspenock Junior Rifle League was the brainchild of several coaches and instructors led by Manny Snyderman from Maspenock Rod & Gun. It is

Chris Rooney (above) of Maspenock Rod and Gun shoots Off hand. Paul Ferrecchia (below) in the prone position as he shoots for Marlboro Fish and Game. Photo by Manny Snyderman

comprised of five clubs: Harvard Sportsman’s Club, Holliston Sportsmen’s Club, Marlboro Fish & Game Club, Maspenock Rod & Gun Club and Southborough Rod & Gun Club. The Harvard program is overseen by Don Miller, Warren Frederick and James Lee. The Holliston program presently is run by only Rich Girvin. Marlboro has Mark Tessier at its helm. At Maspenock you will see Manny Snyderman, Michelle St. Gelais, Dave Gregiore and Jason Darrow.

For Southborough Mark Monique and Brian Smith run the program.

The league also has a structure which includes the President, Manny Snyderman and a treasurer Dave Gregiore. All the other coaches serve as volunteer Directors enabling everyone to have input as to how the league will be run. The MJRL hosts a banquet each April that alternates between the clubs. This year it will be held at the Marlboro Fish & Game club on April 14th. Parents and friends along with each athlete, is invited to not only share memories and have a great meal but witness the presentation of annual awards.

There is a fee to attend but it is relatively small thanks to the donations of the member clubs offsetting most costs.

“We run four matches a year and charge absolutely no fees to shoot,” said Manny when I interviewed him at this latest event. “We want to have as many young people come and enjoy the sport and focus a lot of attention getting newer shooters acclimated to a competitive atmosphere. Coaches and parents all pitch in to help make the match fun and a

GOAL News in Brief

• GOAL Officers write a letter to members.

• The GOAL Annual Meeting & Banquet date is announced- April 21!

• GOAL gets new phone system. Find new extensions for staff.

• Contact your legislators to urge support for GOAL’s S.661!

• GOAL Announces prizes for the Annual Raffle - The Big Bang 10!

• It’s election time for the GOAL Board of Directors. Read the candidate bios.

• GOAL staff continues efforts to meet with Governor Patrick.

• GOAL thanks the generosity of our members who give financial support in addition to their annual dues.

• GOAL Member Writes.

Turn to page 20 for these GOAL stories... and more.

learning experience at only the cost of what they shoot.”

Over the years some very good shooters have emerged such as Kim Coffey and Kelly Rosales. One of the up and coming athletes this day was Margot Lee, who has been placing in the top ranks for some time and hopes to visit the Olympic Training Center this year. “I have been just missing by a point or two in some of the tougher competitions but am very pleased with my progress,” Margot told me. “I like both air and smallbore, having been in the 583/600 range in smallbore 3Position and 380/400 in air. I want to Mark Vick in Kneeling.

Photo by Manny Snyderman go on to College and would like a college that offers shooting but I am more concerned that I get into a school that will give me the education I need in the field I have chosen.”

And what is that field, you ask?

Biotechnology!

Mark Monique made it very clear that the more juniors they get the better. He noted that a number of the coaches and instructors don’t have any family Abby Monique in offhand. She shoots for Southborough youngsters in the Rod and Gun. Photo by Manny Snyderman program, which makes their participation even more impressive. Right now there are about 50 active “We all believe that the future of our cause participants. Most of the costs are born by and our sport depends totally on bringing the hosting clubs including guns, ammo up new generations that appreciate what and the related equipment. Only two we have had. They may not all go on to be clubs, Harvard and Maspenock, offer air great shooters but the discipline and rifle shooting at this time. All of the clubs friendly competitiveness of what we offer suspend the shooting for the summer will make them better and more fully months, although parents may take their youngsters for individual training. informed citizens.”

I also talked with James Lee from the Manny estimates that in the five years of the program as it is now constituted, Harvard club, who is hoping that a over 200 youngsters have gone through. portable air rifle range can be obtained for use at all clubs. He wants to set something up in town facilities that have the distances indoors and just see how much interest there is out there. His request will be one of the items on the agenda of the next GOAL Foundation board meeting.

No matter what their skill level, no matter what they have for equipment, everyone is encouraged to shoot. If you have a child living in the area of one of the clubs mentioned, don’t be shy. Our traditions need all the help they can get and the discipline and focus taught in shooting will help any youngster in all aspects of life. A tip of the hat Shooting for Maspenock Rod and Gun are Tyler to all the coaches and parents involved in the Maspenock Lefebvre and Laura Kacir.

Photo by Manny Snyderman Junior Rifle league. ★

The 2012 NRA Rhode Island Open Metric Position Smallbore Rifle Sectional

by Digby Hand

The NRA’s 2012 National Indoor Championship season got underway with the firing of the Metric Three Position Sectional at the Massasoit Gun Club over the first full weekend in January.

Iron sight shooters from Connecticut, Rhode Island and New Hampshire shot a three position match, 40 shots prone, standing, and kneeling on the USA/NRA 50 target. This is the Olympic course of fire but with NRA legal equipment, although a look at the firing line saw almost all participants in full international attire.

Range Officer Brad Ellsworth called the shooters to the line for the prone stage which was a nip and tuck battle between Brian Jylkka and Joe Graf. Graf opened with a 99 to Jylkka’s 98. The score evened out on the second card when Jylkka

posted a 98 to Graf’s 97. They kept things even with each shooting a 99 on the third target. Jylkka finally pulled ahead by a point on the final ten shots with a 97 to Graf’s 96. John Cialek was third with a 385.

The prone match would be as close as anyone would get to the Hudson New Hampshire rifleman for the rest of the day.

Jylkka walked away with the standing match, shooting a 365. He was 27 points ahead of his nearest rival, team mate, Cialek and further than that from third place Paul Falcone. At this point, with a 35 and 50 point lead on his closet competition going into kneeling, it was Jylkka’s match to lose.

Jyllka is approaching his 21st birthday and the 2012 campaign will be his last as a junior, an opportunity he is determined

not to squander if his performance at this is any match indication. He closed the door on everyone with a consistent which kneeling yielded him a 381 for the stage and an1138 gold medal winning score.

Left to right, John Cialek (Silver) and Brian Jylkka (Gold).

The only contest in kneeling was between Graf and Hap the third ten shot string and tied Graf on Rocketto who both posted 361s. Graf held the final target. Tie breaking rules gave the advantage over the first 20 shots with the second place spot to Rocketto. a 184 to Rocketto’s 178. Rocketto, who In the end Cialek was silver medalist just started his Medicare eligibility and with a 1073 and Graf slid into third. Paul marveled at the fact that the three Hudson Falcone was high junior, Rocketto high Juniors shooting to his right ages did not senior, and Rebecca Green high lady. ★ equal his, made up the six point deficit ion

The 2012 Rhode Island NRA Indoor Metric Position Sectional

by Digby Hand

The youth movement was on a real tear at the Massasoit Gun Club over the last weekend in January as a trio of youngsters dominated the tournament.

Shooting 40 shots in each of prone, standing, and kneeling on the demanding NRA/USAS 50 target Mackenzie Martin, Zachary Connell, and Brian Jylkka sewed up the top three places in the aggregate.

Bob Lynn, a senior shooter from New Hampshire jumped out to a quick lead with an excellent 397X400 prone. Martin was close on his heels with a 395X400 just two points ahead of Jylkka’s 393X400 which rounded out the top three.

Jylkka was tied with Bay Stater Erik Hoskins but took third on a tie breaker.

Connell stormed back from a disappointing 387X400 prone with an outstanding 370X400 standing. Martin, who has been turning in excellent standing scores this season, shot a 366X400 as Jylkka stayed in contention with a 360X400, breathing down his neck was Hoskins who posted a 355X400. Hap Rocketto was hanging on by his finger nails with a 351X400.

Going into kneeling, the final stage,

Martin held a four point lead over on Jylkka. Martin now had a little more However, the hotly contested kneeling Connell, eight on Jylkka, 13 over Hoskins breathing space and a race was developing stage did little to change to overall and full 20 ahead of Rocketto. Seeing the for third place as Hoskins had a three picture. Mackenzie Martin earned a gold handwriting on the wall Rocketto grinned point lead over Jylkka in the stage. medal with a score of 1145X1200. and remarked that he needed to shoot 42 Martin all but shut the door on Connell recovered from a substandard tens to even have a chance prone and was the silver medalist over overtaking Martin. with an 1135. Jylkka gave truth to The kneeling targets the old shooters’ saying that you lose were followed with close matches prone and win them attention by the gallery standing. He took bronze by four Martin and Connell stayed points on the strength of his standing in first and second as both score as he tied Hoskins in prone carded 95s, Jylkka slipped and lost to him by one kneeling. two more point s behind the Hoskins, Joe Graff, Tom McGurl leaders with a 93 and the and Paul Falcone were first master, bottom dropped out of expert, sharpshooter and marksman Hoskins’ grocery bag with respectively. Jarred Dassler was the an 89. Showing his mettle high junior and Kerri Lewis high Hoskins battled back with a lady. Rocketto took senior honors.

97 to Martin’s 96 while Taunton Marksmanship Unit Connell shot a 93 and easily won the paper team match as Jylkka a 90. three of the top four individual As the targets were From left, Zach Connell (Silver), Makenzie Martin (Gold) and scores, Martin Connell, and Hoskins being changed for the Brian Jylkka (Bronze). joined up with Brendan Whitaker for second stage of keeling the 4487, light years ahead of Digby results of the first half showed that Martin everyone with a 99 on her first target. Hand, Rocketto, Graf, Lynn and McGurlhad picked up a point on Connell.

Connell’s 96 was good but still left him in although it is interesting to note that all of Likewise Hoskins had gained five points the dust. Jylkka had a 96 to Hoskins’ 94 that team, but Graf, are 60 years of age or and climbed to within one point but, when older, and the Hudson New Hampshire they both turned in 95s on the last target Juniors, Dassler, Jylkka, John Cialek, and Hoskins took third kneeling. The final ten Zack Wambganss.

THE The match was well administered by shots saw no change in the lead as both Martin and Connell fires 94s and Hoskins Match Director Nicole Panko and Range and Jylkka posted 95s. Martin took Officer Brad Ellsworth. Competitors wish New England’s most active outdoor people kneeling with a 384, Connell was second to offer them, and the Massasoit Gun The Outdoor Message (USPS 790-980, ISSN 027MEMBER GROUPS: Gun Owners’ Action on the strength of his 378 while Hoskins Club, thanks for a fine competitive League, Rhode Island Rifle & Revolver 8053) is published monthly by the Outdoor Message Association, Holyoke Revolver Club, Old experience. ★ pulled out a one point victory of Jylkka.

Outdoor Message

Cooperative, Inc., 37 Pierce Street, Northborough, MA 01532. Periodicals postage is paid at Northborough, MA and at additional mailing offices.

A subscription to The Outdoor Message is available only through membership in one of the member groups, where $7.32 of the membership dues is applied to your subscription.

Permission is hereby granted to reprint material in this publication that does not contain a byline as long as credit is given to The Outdoor Message. Written permission must be obtained from the author to reprint articles with a byline.

Publisher: Michael D. Yacino Editor: Michelle Yacino Siudut

Colony Sportsmen’s Club, Mansfield Fish & Game Club, Georgetown Fish & Game Association, The GOAL Foundation, Copicut Rifle Association, Maspenock Rod & Gun Club, South Fitchburg Hunting & Fishing Club, Worcester Pistol & Rifle Club, Independent Sportsmen’s Club, Standish Sportsman’s Association, Southborough Rod & Gun Club, Hanson Rod & Gun Club, Wrentham Sportsmen’s Association, Fin, Fur & Feather Club of Wellesley and Natick, Woodville Rod & Gun Club, Cape Cod Fish & Game Association, Uxbridge Rod & Gun Club, Shirley Rod & Gun Club, Ayer Gun and Sportsmen’s Club, Fitchburg Sporsmen’s Club, Barre Sportsmen’s Club and Hamilton-Wenham Rod & Gun Club.

The editorials and articles appearing in this paper do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of all subscribers or contributors. Although sportsmen, in general, support each others views, they may occasionally differ over certain controversial issues. Each group’s articles reflect that group’s own position.

POSTMASTER: Please send address corrections to Northborough, MA 01532.

The

Outdoor Message DEADLINES

The

ISSUE April May June

Outdoor Message, PO Box 567,

COPY DUE DATE March 8 April 8 May 8

To request advertising information or to submit materials contact The Outdoor Message at PO Box 567, Northborough MA 01532; phone 603-642-4628; fax 603-642-4327 or e-mail editor@theoutdoormessage.com. Information is available at www.theoutdoormessage.com.

Page 2

The

A Man to Remember

by Michael D. Yacino

He was born in the heart of the gun making area so his keen interest developed quickly. He was first trained at Colt in Hartford and as a toolmaker worked through the days of hurry-up contracts to meet the demands of the Civil War. His passion at Colt was studying a way to produce low cost cartridge pistols.

He soon broke out on his own buying a small shop on Grand Avenue in New Haven, CT., moved twice again because of fires and ended up on Hamilton Street where I believe he was when pistols began to appear bearing his name. He obtained his first patent in 1870 and by the early 1880’s was well established in making primarily pistols and Ballard rifles. Then came the single shot small pistols ranging from .22 caliber to .41 caliber. Then came revolvers and he bought out Standard

Outdoor Message

Revolver Company bringing that line to his already established “Little Joker” and “OK” revolvers.

He even had a large double action revolver but by the turn of that century the production of handguns was discontinued.

John Mahlon Marlin died on July 1, 1901 and control of his company The Marlin Fire Arms Company was passed to the Marlin-Rockwell Corporation in 1916. During WWI that company manufactured Browning automatic rifles and machine guns at New Haven and bombs at another plant in Philadelphia. In 1920 it went into receivership, was sold and reorganized in 1926 as the Marlin Firearms Company once again. As you know that company is now owned by The Freedom Group. ★ March 2012

Mass Junior Camp Update The Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp registered its 120th reservation on February 14th, 2012. That is the earliest ever for this two-week outdoor program, which will run from August 5-17 this year.

“We started taking reservations after January 1st and by the end of the month, only 21 open spots remained,” said Michelle Kirouac, Camp administrator.

“Obviously we do not yet have actual campers, as many of the sponsors are simply locking in their spots. But by February 13th, we already had confirmation for quite a few,” she said.

At the camp staff meeting in early January, several ideas came up to add programs, such as a fly tying segment.

“Everyone was hoping we could get fly tying as part of the regular curriculum but at the very least we would like to have it as one of our optionals,” reported Mike Yacino, Camp treasurer. “Both the staff and the Camp Board of Directors agreed such a component would greatly enhance the camp so we are asking if anyone would care to come forward to run it.”

Gerry Lemire, the newest camp Board member, did speak with a representative of a fly tying group located in Boylston and it is hoped contact can be made with an instructor. “We sent out an email in February and should be able to set something up for this year’s camp,” said Gerry. ★

The officers of The Outdoor Message Cooperative would like to express their gratitude to the officers of GOAL for taking so much time these past few months to work with us. We have a structured plan to move our publication into the electronic age while maintaining its present form for the vast majority of our readers to enjoy.

Owing that a growing segment of our population is receiving their news

electronically, we hope to have the option available and fully up and running by the summer months. Those wishing to view our publication in electronic format will be able to do so, ultimately reducing both our costs and the expense to all the groups we service.

We also thank those readers who have taken the time to write to us and offer their suggestions and comments on this topic. ★

Moving Toward the Future

News from Around the Nation Hunting Documentary Wins Award At Prestigious Film Festival... Hunters and the Sundance Film Festival are two things you normally don't hear in the same sentence. On Sunday that changed when a short documentary film about a group of female hunters from South Carolina won the prestigious film festival's shorts audience award. The 13-minute film tells the story of women and why they hunt.

"The Debutante Hunters," directed by Maria White, can be viewed at http://movies.yahoo.com/blogs/ sundance/debutante-hunters-wins-yahoosundance-2012-shorts-competition172532156.html

Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF) announces its plans to support the ACUI 44th Annual Intercollegiate Clay Target Championships Shelby Township, MI - The Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF) along with the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) announced its plans today to support the ACUI 44th Annual Intercollegiate Clay Target Championships scheduled to be held March 27 thru April 1, 2012 at The National Shooting Complex in San Antonio, TX. SSSF/SCTP has committed to over $450,000.00 to support the event.

SSSF/SCTP will contribute: • $2,000.00 endowment for every collegiate team that participates in the 2012 ACUI Collegiate Clay Target Championship • $4,000.00 of additional endowment money if the collegiate team is registered as a SCTP affiliated Team making that a total of $6,000.00 in endowment money.

• $3,000.00 of endowment money for division 1, 2 and 3 for each of the six disciplines for a first place team.

• $2,000.00 of endowment money for division 1, 2 and 3 for each of the six disciplines for a second place team.

• $1,000.00 of endowment money for division 1, 2 and 3 for each of the six disciplines for a third place team.

The events SSSF/SCTP will participate in are: American Trap, American Skeet, Sporting Clays, 5-Stand, Bunker Trap and Olympic Skeet.

"Over the past year, the SCTP March 2012

Directors of Development across the United States have been focused on organizing several very successful Intercollegiate Clay Target Regional Championships," said Jon M. McGrath, Chairman of the Foundation.

"We look forward to helping promote the 2012 44th Annual ACUI Intercollegiate Clay Target Championship in San Antonio as well."

The Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF) is responsible for all aspects of the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) across the United States, including participant registration, coaches, state coordinators, state and national championships, promotion, communications, websites, public relations and growth strategies. The Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation exists to raise funding and other resources for Youth Development Programs in the shooting sports industry.

SCTP is a youth development program where adult coaches and volunteers model sportsmanship, responsibility, honesty, ethics, integrity, and team work while using shooting sports programs to teach these and other positive life skills to SCTP athletes.

To learn more about SCTP call (586) 737-0805 or visit their website at www.shootsctp.org.

Anti-Gun Group Launches "Brew Not Bullets" Starbucks Boycott According to an article by Mark Berman on the Opposing Views website <www.opposingviews.com> an anti-gun group began a boycott of Starbucks on Valentine's Day over the chain's gun policy -- or rather, its lack of a gun policy.

Elliot Fineman, the CEO of the National Gun Victims Action Council (NGAC) said he tried to avoid the "Brew Not Bullets" boycott, but Starbucks would not budge on its stance.

In a news release by the NGAC, Fineman said, "The boycott will end only when Starbucks rejects the NRA's ProGun agenda by 1) banning all guns from their stores and 2) committing to be an Aggressive Corporate Advocate for sane The

It was covered with snow on a trip to camp in mid-February, but the rifle range at the Chesterfield Boy Scout Reservation will be hopping with Mass Junior Photo by Michael D. Yacino Conservation Campers in August.

Have You Moved?

Chapter 140, Sections 129B(11) and 131(l) of Massachusetts state law requires holders of a Firearms Identification Card (FID) and a License to Carry Firearms (pistol permit) to notify certain authorities of any change of address. You must notify - by certified mail, in writing and within 30 days - the authority who issued the card and/or license, the chief in your new town of residence and the Executive

gun laws."

Are you wondering what policy it is that resulted in NGAC initiating the boycott? Starbucks' gun policy is simply

Director of the Criminal History Systems Board (200 Arlington Street, Suite 2200, Chelsea, MA 02150). Failure to notify of any change of address is cause for revocation of the Card or License.

If you haven’t yet done so, we also urge you to re-register to vote. A mail-in form can be obtained by calling 1-800462-VOTE. ★ On Valentine’s day GOAL Staff Jon Green, Angela Fisher and Tara McGrath joined gun owners across the country to thank Starbucks for their policy to respect the rights of gun owners.

that it abides by local laws, saying "In the end, we determined that following local laws is the best approach for us.

Were we to adopt a policy different from local laws allowing open carry, we would be forced to require our partners to ask law abiding customers to leave our stores."

Gun owners decided to counter the boycott with “Starbucks Appreciation Day”, a concentrated effort to support Starbucks. Gun owners across the country showed support of the company and its policy with their purchases. ★

THIS MONTH in The Outdoor Message

SP EC IAL A RTI CLES

2012 NRA Rhode Island Open Metric Position Smallbore Rifle Sectional Page 2 2012 Rhode Island NRA Indoor Metric Position Sectional . . . . . . .Page 2 A Man to Remember . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 2 Have You Moved? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 3 Mass Junior Camp Update . . . . . . . .Page 3 Moving Toward the Future . . . . . . . .Page 3 NRA Life of Duty Program Honors and Assists Those Who Put

Themselves in Harm’s Way . . . . . .Page 10 NRA's Annual Meetings & Exhibits 2012: A Celebration of American Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10 Skill Set: A Competitor Learns from Tactical Types . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 7 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces Annual Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest . . .Page 10 Update on NH Right to Carry Bill . .Page 6

Classifieds ..........................................Page 35 From the Mass State House...............Page 8 Hap’s Corner ......................................Page 4 Hipshots & Hangfires ........................Page 6 Hunting Around New England ..........Page 7 In Pop’s Pantry...................................Page 4

Just an Opinion ..................................Page 6 Legislative Proposals to Watch ..........Page 11 News from Around the Nation...........Page 3 News from MassWildlife ...................Page 12 Notes from the Little Cabin...............Page 4 The Sportsman’s Calendar.................Page 30

FEATUR E AR TI CLES

The

Outdoor Message

IS THE

OFFICIAL NEWS PUBLICATION

Ayer Gun & Sportsmen's Club . . . . .Page 36 Barre Sportsmen’s Club . . . . . . . . . .Page 28 Cape Cod Fish & Game Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 19 Copicut Rifle Association . . . . . . . . .Page 29 Fin, Fur & Feather Club of Wellesley and Natick . . . . . . . . . .Page 26 Fitchburg Sportsmen’s Club . . . . . . .Page 33 Gun Owners’ Action League . . . . . .Page 20 Hamilton-Wenham Rod & Gun Club Page 13 Hanson Rod & Gun Club . . . . . . . . .Page 27 Holyoke Revolver Club . . . . . . . . . .Page 16 Independent Sportsmen’s Club . . . . .Page 24 Maspenock Rod & Gun Club . . . . . .Page 35 Old Colony Sportsmen’s

Outdoor Message

FOR:

Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 Shirley Rod & Gun Club . . . . . . . . .Page 31 South Fitchburg Hunting & Fishing Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 18 Southborough Rod & Gun Club . . . .Page 23 Standish Sportsman’s Association . .Page 29 The GOAL Foundation . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14 Uxbridge Rod & Gun Club . . . . . . . .Page 30 Woodville Rod & Gun Club . . . . . . .Page 25 Worcester Pistol & Rifle Club . . . . .Page 22 Wrentham Sportsmen’s Association .Page 17 and Georgetown Fish & Game Association Mansfield Fish & Game Rhode Island State Rifle & Revolver Association

Page 3

Notes from the Little Cabin: Squirrels Don’t Lie

by Paul Kress

Readers of this column know I loved squirrels. Particularly young ones dipped in seasoned flour and bacon grease. Of course that was during the time when I was growing up on a farm deep in rural America. The wild land was full of good things to eat, including squirrels.

Then my life changed. When our disagreement with Germany and Japan was over I settled in Massachusetts and became a suburbanite. My home land shrank from two hundred acres to two.

But that two acres was also the home of a variety and abundance of wildlife including squirrels. Three varieties. Gray, red and the only flying squirrel I had ever seen in my years in the outdoors.

Squirrels love suburbia. Why not?

Nobody shooting at them there. Except for the occasional stupid city dog that chases them up the tree - it's a safe place.

They can live until their whiskers turn white. Food?

Plenty of food. My little wild kingdom had a mixture of pine and oak trees. A red squirrel's idea of heaven is a mountain of pine cones. A gray can think of nothing better than both red and white acorn bearing oak trees. Best of all suburbia is filled with people who distribute truckloads of seeds for hungry birds throughout most of the year. Bird seed the finest of a squirrel's fast food.

Barely unto my first winter in suburbia it became evident that the squirrels and I were in conflict over who had priority on the seeds - birds or squirrels. I can truthfully say that on some issues I could be called a "flaming liberal" or something

even better. a Without doubt squirrels have a right to live too but dang it all not on my most expensive seeds. Piles of cracked corn were ignored by the bushytailed thieves. Squirrels stood in line to chow down on the expensive stuff. I declared war. Not with a gun. This would be a battle of wits. In retrospect I see my mistake. I believed I was as smart as a squirrel, maybe even smarter than some.

The years went by. The shelves in the shed filled with discarded squirrel-proof feeders that weren't squirrel-proof. I

moved feeders around every two or three days. The squirrels were mildly amused.

Suddenly it ended. My wild kingdom had shrunk to one large tree - all I could see from my hospital bed. Then one morning just as the sun hit the tree top my wild kingdom came alive. I hadn't seen it come but it was there - a fat gray squirrel sitting quietly on a limb next to the trunk, its splendid tail arched over its back.

The land around the Little Cabin is a distant memory. Soon strangers will own my two acre wild kingdom. The city girl and I will be in this small apartment in a huge assisted living complex. But there will be another wild kingdom somewhere close by. I know this because a squirrel in a hospital courtyard said it was so. And squirrels don't lie. ★

time when I was in the pits at Fort Benning and engaged in a similar philosophical discussion with my teammate Roger McQuiggan. We were debating back and forth about some esoteric point of existence and Roger had taken the Teleological argument which states that anything complex must be designed by a great designer. I, on the other hand, elected to argue from the more controversial Ontological point of view which states that if it can be imagined it can exist.

We yammered back and forth for some time as the Pit NCO looked on very quietly with a bemused expression on his face. At last Roger turned to him and said, “Sarge, we aren’t getting any where here.

What do you think?” The old timer looked at Roger and then at me, shifted his Copenhagen, spit into the dust at his feet, and looked up to say, “I guess it all depends on if you are on the outside looking in or on the inside looking out.”

And that pretty much sums up the state of this argument, which has been going on for at least two millennia.

To get back to the problem at hand I thought about it a bit and came up on the horns of a dilemma. Yes, I thought, they must be the same team because the name is the same. I also thought no, because each team had different constituent parts so it can’t be the same. A third thought which crossed my mind is that nothing is easy for the shooting historian.

My brother Steve, also a Black Hawk, was given a copy of the draft so that he might offer constructive criticism. When

he reached the appendix on team victories he casually commented, “I wonder how many of these teams that doubled in the same year were the same?”

My jaw dropped for Steve has both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Philosophy and I feared the worst.

Reluctantly I told him about the exchange that I had had with Nordquist over the same question. The faraway look in his eyes told me that Steve was mentally shuffling his notes and preparing to launch into an elegant and exquisitely detailed discourse on the subject. Sighing, I dropped my head into my hands and braced myself, for this would be a bone which he would gnaw upon for some time. This turn of events would mean only two things -- my store of knowledge would increase and the completion of the project would be delayed.

His opening salvo was, “Have you not read Plutarch’s Life of Theseus?”

Knowing that he had, and probably in the original Latin, I replied that I had not.

“Well then,” he went on quoting verbatim, in English thank my lucky stars, from the work, “The ship wherein Theseus and the youth of Athens returned had thirty oars, and was preserved by the Athenians down even to the time of Demetrius Phalereus for they took away the old planks as they decayed, putting in

new and stronger timber in their place.”

Steve continued his Phil 101 lecture by telling me that Plutarch then asked if the ship is the same ship if, over time, it were entirely replaced, piece by piece. To make things more confusing Thomas Hobbs came along centuries later and asked if the original pieces were saved and reassembled which ship would be the genuine Ship of Theseus? It is a classic paradox problem.

Desperate to move on I interrupted his exposition and for that he looked at me sternly, as if I should have been taking notes or something. I told him that Nordquist and I solved the problem to our satisfaction. For better or worse we agreed that, for our purpose, we would only consider a team the same if all of the members of both teams were the same.

“Pragmatic, to be sure, but not good philosophy,” Steve opined with a dismissive shake of his head.

He quickly brightened and bubbled out. “Do you know,” he said with a gleeful conspiratorial wink, “that the same paradox under different guises is also called ‘Heraclitus’ River’, or ‘Plato’s Carriage’, or ‘Locke’s Socks’, or ‘George Washington’s Axe’? Maybe I can get into the journals with a paper on the subject entitled ‘Rocketto’s Rifle Teams’?” ★

Hap’s Corner: The Ship of Theseus

by Hap Rocketto

Over the past several months I have been engaged in writing a history of the Black Hawk Rifle Club, a 75 year old shooting organization of which I am a member.

One of the recurrent themes was the number of national titles the club has accumulated in its competitive career.

The club has used various names to delineate one team from another when entered in the same match, such at the National Smallbore Rifle Championships.

The club, being named after one of the great Indian chiefs, tends to use names easily associated with the great war chief of the Sauk tribe of central Illinois. The best team is usually named Chiefs, and then there are the Arrows, on occasion there was an all female team called Squaws and a junior team with Papoose as its handle. There is also a long string of teams simply named Black Hawk.

Paul Nordquist, one of the club members working with me on the project, had an interesting question in regard to teams. He asked, “The number of teams that have swept a championship; that is they won both the metallic and anysight team matches in a single phase, raises an interesting philosophical question. For example, if the Army Blue Team wins both matches in a phase, but switches a shooter to do so, is it the same team because the name has remained the same or is it a different team because it has a different composition?”

All I wanted to do was to write an interesting and informative history of the club and here I was, sidetracked by philosophical dialog. It reminded me of a

Ware Gun Shop 91 W. Main Street Ware, MA 01082 413-967-7456

Handgun Haven for Western Mass.

Check out our 2012 Customer Loyalty Program.

The more you spend, the more you save.

For details email us at info@waregunshop.com Or just go to www.waregunshop.com

Everybody likes to eat! Some prefer the traditional meat and potatoes while others choose a vegetarian lifestyle. Then there’s the big bunch in the middle who want a variety -- fish, red meat, white meat, and the other white meat; vegetables of all shapes and colors; quick pick-me-up snacks or elaborate desserts. In Pop’s Pantry will give you some of all of it and we hope you enjoy just trying something new.

If you have any variations of what we offer, or if you’ve got a favorite recipe you’d like to share, send us your suggestions. Enjoy! ★

In Pop’s Pantry Mainely Deer Prep and cook time: 25 minutes

Serves: 4

4 venison steaks, 8 oz each 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen) ½ cup walnuts ¼ cup red wine 1 tbsp olive oil

¾ cup honey ¼ cup water 2 tbsp butter 2 tsp minced garlic ¼ tsp black pepper

In medium saucepan, combine cranberries, honey and water, simmer over medium heat until cranberries burst, about 5 min. Remove from heat. In small skillet melt 1 tbsp butter, add garlic and sauté for 3 min. Add mix to cranberries, stir, season with pepper & salt. In large skillet add olive oil on medium to high heat until thinned. Add steaks and sear (3 min), turn for 2 min, cover and cook for 4-5 min longer. Add wine to cranberry mix, Reheat to boil and remove from heat.

Place steaks on a plate, drizzle cranberry sauce over them and add nuts. If it’s spring try fiddleheads or string beans and baked potato as sides.

If you cut this out, it will fit nicely on a standard recipe card.

Page 4

The

Outdoor Message

March 2012

March 2012

The

Outdoor Message

Page 5

Just An Opinion: Communications

by Paul J. Kress

We are told that this is the age of communication. You can text a message and talk on the cell phone at the same time you are driving your car. If you doubt this, ask any ambulance driver. The new avenues of communication should be good news to rod and gun clubs. Any healthy active club depends on a constant flow of information to its members. News of meetings, special activities is vital for a strong member participation.

So with all these riches can there be a

downside? Perhaps. Switching club newsletters from postal service to email saves effort (more trips to the copy center, no more stuffing envelopes) and, more important, money - a significant saving.

Most clubs have a wish list - things they would like to have but don’t have funds for. Some clubs have made the switch to all e-mail. It is fast, cheap and shuts out all members who do not have access to email. Is it ethical or even good

business practice to discriminate against those who can not meet this new standard? If the answer is no to either or both of these questions, is there a compromise, a middle ground?

No decision to change should be made until it is clear how many members have e-mail and how many do not. A questionnaire mailed to all members

Hipshots & Hangfires

should provide this information. If there are only a small number of have nots, they might be accommodated by the regular mailing while the majority would get their news by e-mail. Not an easy decision but an important one for a club to make.

Some clubs have found a different forum of communication. Their newsletter is published in The Outdoor Message or other magazine. Fast, easy and all members get a copy of the publication. Which one is best for your club? ★

by Mike Yacino

The Presidential Primary will be held this month on the 6th. All the hype comes to a close as to who gets to fight with whom when you vote November 6th. Choose wisely and choose well. Last month I tied Obama to Muslim terrorists and received an email criticizing my criticism of the President of the United States. So much for my free speech.

If the stars align properly in November Obama will be gone and maybe our children and their children will have a chance to get out of the mess which my critics’ President (he’s sure not mine) put us into faster then all other presidents combined. I am reminded of the phrase “In order for you to insult me I would first have to value your opinion”. + + + Did you see the cartoons where the rodent from Pennsylvania filed a grievance because he was accused of being a disgruntled weatherman? He said all he wanted was some fresh air. No one is safe from the naysayer’s these days. + + + Last month we reported on the AMU Clinic that was run for pistol shooters.

One of the instructors was Tyler Imig who hailed originally from the Bay State.

While speaking with some of the attendees he was asked what stood out in his mind about the coaching he had received. “Two things,” said Imig. “Reject the shot when you lose patience or lose your hold and if you can’t crack the shot in 10 seconds or less, call it off.” And there you have it. + + + When the IRS sent back his tax return saying he had made a mistake listing his dependents, Mr. Jones was very shocked.

Under dependents he wrote “12 million illegal immigrants, 3 million crack heads, 42 million unemployables on food stamps, 2 million people in 243 prisons, 535 (people) in the US House and Senate.” Mr. Jones was told that answer wasn’t acceptable, although it certainly appears correct! + + + 2012 Marks the 75th Anniversary of the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program which includes PittmanRobertson and Dingell-Johnson acts which raises funds through self-imposed taxes on outdoor equipment, firearms and

ammunition. A broad celebration is planned by The cops, at all levels, have the NSSF and will been engaged in more and culminate on National more military style Hunting and Fishing training, the black ops type Day in September. clothing, very limited + + + interaction at a community Did you see where the level, equipment that goes fishing industry is being way beyond their needs to once again attacked over combat local crime, and lead used in fishing those inside many agencies gear? I remember all the Don’t we wish Massachusetts had a Governor like Ed King. It was 1982 are simply distancing hype when lead was and Governor King accepted a “GOAL Making it in Massachusetts t- themselves from the very banned for use in shirt from GOAL President Larry Tavares. people they used to be waterfowl hunting. That sworn to serve. One survey one seems mute now, but I am just as and Crockett records show that trophy asks police if they would do a door to door opposed to what is presently being deer entries are up over 400% in the past search for private firearms if told to do so discussed as I was back then. I wish the 30 years. Better food - better deer - that’s and they said sure. fishermen all the luck. Wonder how a sea None of what I have just said is new good management. (You thought I was duck could swallow a one pound sinker? news but don’t you wonder why no one is going to say Papa Johns.) + + + trying to stop it all? + + + Did any of you see the “Debutante The news media spends days arguing They repealed the one-gun-a-month Hunters” 13 minute film telling the story law in Virginia and the Georgia Senate about Newt Gingrich’s condemnation of by women as to why they hunt? I love the passed a bill allowing the use of their stupidity and his indiscretions. They South and South Carolina in particular. suppressors for hunting! Keep the want to know why Romney won’t talk The film directed by Maria White won the neighborhood and the shooting ranges about his business holdings and taxes. prestigious Sundance Film Festivals quiet just like they do in Europe. I Who cares? I’m interested in who has a “Short Audience Award”. “Take a woman suppose someone will complain about plan that will get America out of the UN, hunting and you’ll never be hunting for a get rid of the people who break our laws, that though. woman”. Well, something like that. and stop caring for the rest of the world + + + + + + In the small items category I see that while Americans are hungry and out of I see the Freedom Group keeps rolling, the ongoing studies by the Cato Institute work. Why keep funding places like picking up more and more gun continue to confirm that more guns equals China when we could be producing our companies. The latest is PARA USA. less crime. A study called “Tough own products?

PARA as you may know is located in NC. Diversionary tactics are not new to any Targets” shows the overwhelming number + + + of self-defense cases involve situations strategy. It’s done in war, in business, and Many folks who are traditional hunters where the gun is never fired. Gun owners even when some group of whiners is are not all that happy about the digitizing are much better at stopping future crimes trying to cover up inept leadership in a of licenses and stamps. So much for club or association. IT’S OLD NEWS! by their actions. collectors. Now the Feds are moving to One of the downsides of a free society is + + + allow states to issue duck stamps on plain The UN is being encouraged by the that we don’t know when to just say no white paper. All this computer stuff is Obama administration to initiate global and stand up for what is right. Eventually breaking down the added attractions of gun bans. They are also supporting a the failures will be noted and the losers having items hand crafted and simple global tax authority, a global world will be exposed. What you do with them is enough to collect and pass on. I guess monetary board, and they want to place how the future will be determined. people just don’t care about traditions + + + our military forces under a global much anymore and worry so much about Vote for leaders not loud mouths command. US Ambassador Susan Rice is costs. It’s a cop out and when it comes to in the forefront of all this junk. The UN whenever you have a chance. Oh and keep wasted money in and out of government says gun ownership is a privilege not a an extra magazine loaded and at the ready.

I’ll bet I could save tons in streamling the right. Then you have the ATF running Your kids are depending on strength and services government provides and in the guns to the drug lords under Fast and wisdom not the cowardly actions of those private sector hiring people competent to Furious which has ended up killing afraid to make the choices that will result do the job they hire on for. in favorable consequences. ★ Americans and entrapping gun dealers. + + + WOW I see there are more and more trophy quality whitetail deer showing up across the country. According to Boone NRA/ILA Alert New Hampshire HB 536, “relative to the other states, natural right to carry a firearm, openly or 2) be protected in gun-free school DiPrete Promotions, Inc. concealed, without a license” is currently zones and pending consideration in the NH Senate.

3) be exempt from NICS when 2012 GUN SHOWS The bill, filed by J.R. Hoell (R- purchasing a firearm.

Dunbarton), was passed in the House by a If you live in New Hampshire, please Everett Ice Arena 180 to 144 vote.

This Right-to-Carry call AND e-mail your state Senator and Apr 14 - 15 Concord, NH I-93 exit 14 East onto Loudon Rd legislation would repeal the existing law urge him or her to SUPPORT HB 536. If Biddeford Ice Arena that requires a person to have a concealed you are not sure who represents you, find Apr 28 - 29 Biddeford, ME 14 Pomerleau St, I-95 Exit 32 firearm license in order to carry out at <http://www.gencourt.state.nh.

Augusta Civic Center Augusta, ME Aug 25 26 concealed. However, HB 536 would not us/Senate/default.aspx> 76 Community Drive eliminate the current carry permitting Please send this alert to your family, Everett Ice Arena Sep 1 2 Concord, NH system, which will still be required for friends and fellow gun owners in New I-93 exit 14 East onto Loudon Rd those who wish to Hampshire. Ask them to contact their state Show Hours: www.dipromo.com 1) participate in reciprocal concealed Senator and urge him or her to support Saturday 9-5 Sunday 9-2 603-225-3846 carry permit agreements when traveling to “permitless carry” in New Hampshire. ★

Page 6

Update on NH Right to Carry Bill

The

Outdoor Message

March 2012

Skill Set: A Competitor Learns from Tactical Types

by Paul Erhardt, The Dealer Wire This article originally appeared in The Tactical Wire <http://www.TheTacticalWire.com>. Reprinted with permission.

A strange thing happened at the NE Shooters' 2011 Summit, instead of conforming nicely to my preconceived notions about what goes on at such a gathering, the Summit surprised me by teaching me some important lessons - not the least of which was don't underestimate the value of good training.

Before I explain it's important that you realize that I am probably the least tactical person you know, and my presence at a tactical conference featuring several top tier instructors is akin to a fish out of water.

My area of expertise is competition, and for some people competition shooting and tactical shooting go together like oil and water. There are in fact any number of endless arguments between the two groups of thought available for review on just about every online shooting forum.

So you can imagine what I must have been thinking as I pulled into the parking lot of the Pelham (N.H.) Fishing & Game Club to spend two days hopping from one two-hour training module to the next.

Well it didn't take long for my internal bias to give way to a simple if not elegant truth that you can always learn valuable lessons from good instructors. This was immediately apparent during the first module with Chris Fry who was instructing on the use of rifles when shooting around barricades, or cover.

While I was beginning to ignore the

content of Chris' presentation - not being an AR owner and obviously having no use for this segment - he yelled out this simple statement, "Accuracy is King!"

Bam! There it is. I was now back in the class on those three words. I already knew "cash is king" and with websites and blogs "content is king", but I never thought of accuracy that way.

Yeah, I know, stupid isn't it? So simple and important a concept this was that I remember turning to my buddy Scott Conti, the designer of the SPD pocket armorer's tool and the reason I was there that weekend, and repeating Chris' words.

After wrapping up Chris' module we headed to the next one on knife fighting with Michael Janich.

Now, I know Michael Janich having met him through my good friend Michael Bane. I've seen Janich on TV on both Shooting Gallery and The Best Defense and was already very familiar - and impressed - with his teaching style, which is why I was looking forward to seeing him in action.

I think the best way to explain how good Michael Janich is as an instructor is to tell you that while I have no burning desire to learn to knife fight, after spending two hours watching him teach I'd take his class in a heartbeat. At the end of the two-day conference both Scott and I ranked a Janich class high on our wish list of courses.

VT

RI

NH

CT

ME

MASS

Hunting Around New England

Phone: 508-389-6300 http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/recreation/recreation_home.htm No closed season on ENGLISH SPARROW, STARLING, CHIPMUNK, FLYING SQUIRREL, RED SQUIRREL, WEASEL, PORCUPINE, SKUNK, SNAPPING TURTLE, WOODCHUCK BOBCAT: Zones 1-8 Closes Mar 8 COYOTE: Closes Mar 8 CROW: Fridays, Saturdays & Mondays only, Closes Apr 12 OPOSSUM, RACCOON: Closes Mar 31 TURKEY Zones 1-13: Apr 30 - May 26 YOUTH TURKEY: Apr 28 Phone: 207-287-8000 http://www.maine.gov/ifw/ No closed season on COYOTE, WOODCHUCK, PORCUPINE, RED SQUIRREL COYOTE Night Hunting: Closes Aug 31 CROW: WMDs 1-6: Closes Apr 15 WMDs 7-29: Closes Mar 31 SNOWSHOE HARE: Closes Mar 31 TURKEY WMDs 7, 10-26, 28: Apr 30 - Jun 2 YOUTH TURKEY: Apr 28 Phone: 860-424-3011 http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?a=2700&q=323414&depNav_GID=1633& depNav=| COYOTE: Closes Apr 24 TURKEY: Apr 25 - May 26 WOODCHUCK: Mar 15 - Apr 24 Phone: 603-271-3211 www.wildlife.state.nh.us No closed season on COYOTE, WOODCHUCK MINK, MUSKRAT: Closes Apr 10 RED FOX, GRAY FOX, OPOSSUM, SKUNK: Closes Mar 31 SNOWSHOE HARE, RACCOON, WEASEL: Closes Mar 31 YOUTH TURKEY: Apr 28-29

After lunch our group headed to what I'll say was the one segment that I expected to like the least. It was Gun Retention and Takeaways with William Aprill. Honestly, my assumption was that learning to take a gun away from a bad guy that's pointing it at you isn't a real good idea and preparing for that eventuality was, well, silly.

When Aprill said that handing over that wallet or expensive watch was his plan, just as it was mine, I felt a lot better. He then explained that what he was teaching was not about ego gratification or becoming an action movie hero. It was about what to do when you are faced with a situation where you realize you may not get out alive. It's a course of last resort, and with Aprill's no-nonsense delivery style, surprisingly informative.

The day ended with another class I was looking forward to: Shooting from Unusual Positions with Wes Doss. Wes is another instructor I know and have heard nothing but good things about. And frankly, his course actually relates well to practical shooting competition where shooting is rarely done from a static standing position.

Using a simple, no frills folding metal chair, Wes ran drills that forced you out of your shooting comfort zone. Duh, why weren't we already doing this during practice?

Day two of the Summit brought another round of courses starting with Tactical Medicine with Bill Lewitt, a nurse and EMT. While the tactical angle of emergency medicine in the midst of a gun fight was not a good fit for me, I immediately saw the value in learning what to do out on the range when the worst happens.

Scott and I were so impressed with the potential of Lewitt's instruction that we urged him to consider a course for shooting clubs specifically on emergency medicine for the shooting range. Another class I'd take in a heartbeat.

Next came Claude Werner instructing on the use of Snubbie revolvers. Now this is one where I really checked out since snubbie wheelguns don't work well for me due to my hand size. But Scott, who does carry a snubbie, assured me that this was an excellent course and really worth the time and money. He's likely to take another class with Werner, that's how good it was.

The final two courses of the day were also with instructors I was interested in seeing. The first was Managing Unknown Contacts with an instructor known as Southnarc. Due to his law enforcement and previous undercover work he prefers that we not use his real name.

I gotta admit, alias or not, I really enjoyed this course and like the others was surprised how quickly time passed.

One minute we were getting insights into the habits of criminals approaching their prey, and the next we were lining up to shake the instructor's hand because it was over.

Last but not least was Rob Pincus and his Combat Focus Shooting. I know Rob, again through Michael Bane, and have seen him on TV. I assumed his class would be "overly tactical" - don't ask me why. But, it was actually cerebral.

Rob's class made you think, or in the case of understanding accuracy, not think.

Perhaps the perfect bookend to Chris Fry's earlier "Accuracy is King" approach, Rob declared that combat accuracy is a yes/no proposition.

What? Let me think about that for a moment.... Oh, yeah. Rob was dead on.

Using a metal gong as an example, a shooter hits the outer edge and another hits the center. Both are accurate shots and neither is more accurate than the other. It's yes or no. Yes you hit it - accurate. Or no you missed it - not accurate.

Surprisingly, I saw how this clarity of thought could easily apply to competition shooting.

So what's the moral of this story?

Well here it is. There's a lot to be learned from the tactical world and the "Whitman's Sampler" structure of the 2011 Summit is a great way to experience a number of instructors and courses. Scott Conti and I now have a shopping list of courses we'd take and instructors we'd seek out.

If you're in the Pelham, New Hampshire area of New England around this time next year, might I suggest you make plans to head over to the 2012 Summit and find out what you've been missing.

That's what I did.

The 5th Annual Summit will be held April 20-22 at Pelham Fish & Game. Contact 603-673-6105 for more information. â&#x2DC;&#x2026;

Please support our advertisers.

DO YOU LIKE AND KNOW ABOUT GUNS?

DO YOU WANT TO MAKE SOME MONEY?

Phone: 401-222-6800 http://www.dem.ri.gov/pubs/regs/index.htm#FandW No closed season on COYOTE (private land only) CROW: Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays only - Closes Apr 17 DEER Shotgun - Dates vary for state/private land, sex. Please check regulations.

PARAPLEGIC TURKEY: Apr 21-Apr 22 TURKEY: Apr 26 - May 22 YOUTH TURKEY: Apr 21-22

SELL GUNS TO GUN DEALERS NATION WIDE. CALL JAKE BOWEN AT 1-800-243-3006

OR EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO: JAKE@INTERSTATEARMS.COM WWW.INTERSTATEARMS.COM

Phone: 802-241-3700 http://www.vtfishandwildlife.com/Calendar_of_events.cfm?eventcat=hunt&dater ange=future No closed season on COYOTE CROW: Mar 14 - Apr 30 HARE & RABBIT: Closes Mar 11 YOUTH TURKEY: Apr 28-29 â&#x2DC;&#x2026;

March 2012

The

Outdoor Message

Page 7

From the Massachusetts State House

by James L. Wallace, GOAL Executive Director

Common Defense Bill Gets Hearing On Tuesday, February 7, 2012 the Joint Committee on the Judiciary held a public hearing on GOAL’s “Common Defense” legislation. S.661 “An Act Relative to Common Defense” was filed on our behalf by Senator Stephen Brewer.

The public hearing before the Judiciary Committee was held in a packed hearing in room B-1. There were 66 bills on the schedule dealing with everything from criminal DNA testing to juvenile age limits for trial courts. I was on hand to provide Sen. Stephen Brewer brief oral testimony to the Committee. I would also like to thank the GOAL members who attended and provided their testimony. No one testified against the legislation and there were no adverse questions from the Committee members.

Massachusetts currently has what is often referred to as limited “Castle Doctrine”. For the most part this means that Massachusetts law, Chapter 278, Section 8A, recognizes a citizen’s right to defend yourself in a dwelling.

Under GOAL’s legislation, we are trying to expand on that recognition.

S.661 proposes to logically protect a citizen’s right to protect yourself or others in any place they have the right to be.

Meaning, that just because a citizen is not in their dwelling they still have the inherent right to defend themselves or the people around them from harm.

The other very important component of the legislation is to provide protection from civil liability.

Currently Massachusetts law does not provide any civil protection to a citizen who has had to use force to defend themselves, lethal or otherwise. This void in law provides a means by which the attacker or their family to file a civil suit against the citizen who had to engage in defensive actions.

We would encourage our members to contact the members of the committee and urge them to release S.661 “An Act Relative to Common Defense” with a FAVORABLE report.

Committee w e b p a g e : http://www.malegislature.gov/Committee s/Joint/J19 Judiciary Committee Member Email list:

Gene.OFlaherty@mahouse.gov John.Fernandes@mahouse.gov Colleen.Garry@mahouse.gov Sean.Curran@mahouse.gov Carlos.Henriquez@mahouse.gov Russell.Holmes@mahouse.gov sheila.harrington@mahouse.gov Kevin.Murphy@mahouse.gov Angelo.Puppolo@mahouse.gov Christopher.Markey@mahouse.gov Daniel.Winslow@mahouse.gov Cynthia.Creem@masenate.gov Gale.Candaras@masenate.gov Patricia.Jehlen@masenate.gov John.Keenan@masenate.gov Thomas.McGee@masenate.gov Richard.Ross@masenate.gov S.661 “An Act Relative to Common Defense” SECTION 1. Chapter 278: Section 8A. Killing or injuring a person defense of self or others; Section 8A. It shall be an act of lawful defense if a person, who is an occupant of a dwelling or in any place that they have a right to be, used deadly force, or less than deadly force, if he or she acted in the reasonable belief that an assailant was about to inflict great bodily injury or death upon themselves or upon another person who also had a right to be in the location. There shall be no duty on a person to retreat from any place that they have a right to be. An act of lawful defense as outlined in this section shall not be cause for arrest or prosecution. Further, an act of lawful defense under this section shall not be cause for the revocation of a license issued under sections, 122, 123, 129B or 131 of Chapter 140.

SECTION 2. Chapter 231: Section 85U. Death or injury to assailants; liability of defender Section 85U. No person who has committed an act of lawful defense as outlined in section 8A of chapter 278 shall be held liable in an action for damages for death or injuries to an assailant.

Renewal Problems, AGAIN As history always seems to repeat itself here in the Commonwealth - at least bad history - the lawful gun owners are, once again having to wait several months to renew their License to Carry (LTC) or Firearms Identification Card (FID). As before, there is no definitive pattern to the problems. In the same town citizens may get the renewals back in a few weeks while others are waiting several months.

The towns are blaming the state, the state normally states the problem is not on their end and meanwhile citizens are left with no answers.

The complaints are obviously reaching those in the system. On January 23, 2012 the GOAL office received a letter from the Acting Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS) James F. Slater. The Firearms Record

BATTLE STATIONS Patriot for Liberty,

This task is your mission for the month

❒ Tuesday, March 6th is Super Tuesday across the country. Get out & vote!

Congratulations, Patriot!

Mission Accomplished for: M a r c h 2 0 1 2

Page 8

The

Bureau that handles the administrative end of the licensing is under this new agency. In his letter to GOAL the Commissioner states: “Over the past few weeks, DCJIS has received an increase in negative feedback from license applicants regarding the processing and printing time for firearms licenses in the Commonwealth.”

In the letter the Commissioner offered to set up a demonstration of their part of the system for the GOAL Board and staff. His thoughts were that this may clear up any confusion as to what their responsibilities are and how the state system works. As a result we responded to the Commissioner and asked him if it were possible to set up an evening or weekend event so that our members could attend. The basis for this request was that it would be much more effective for our members to see the presentation first hand and be allowed to ask questions and provide input. The Commissioner agreed to look into that possibility.

Another subject that came up in our conversation was the inability for citizens to accurately track the progress of their renewal/application. The major problem in accomplishing this is that the state has no knowledge that an application has been made until it is sent up to them from the local licensing authority. A lot of cities and towns are using the electronic Massachusetts Instant Record Check System (MIRCS), a system that costs millions to put in place. There are also a lot of communities that don’t have the internet capabilities to use the system yet.

The Commissioner heartily agreed that tracking progress was a major problem that he would like to address in some manner.

One thing the agency has done to provide at least some information is to weekly update a spot on its webpage. This spot will alert applicants as to what date of forwarded applications the agency is working on. For example, when writing this article the webpage stated: Current Firearms Records Bureau (FRB) License Processing Time As of January 19, 2012 the FRB is currently approving and printing licenses that were submitted for review by police departments in the first week of January (January 1-7). http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/ dcjis/ Over the upcoming weeks the GOAL office will be working with the agencies involved as well as legislators to address this important matter. To help us facilitate a solution it would be helpful to have factual information from our members as to delays, times, towns, etc. Please help us by sending a very brief email concerning your delays to: jimwallace@goal.org.

Storage Laws GOAL has been receiving a rash of calls and emails lately from citizens who have been ensnared in the Massachusetts firearm storage laws. Most of these calls have been from citizens who have had the police in their home for reasons not originating from firearm issues. Whatever the reason for law enforcement being in your home, especially searching the home for anything, if they find a gun that is not secured according to Massachusetts law they have the authority to charge the owner.

Outdoor Message

It is critically important to remain aware that a violation of any of the storage or public way laws will more than likely result in the revocation of your LTC or FID card. The reason for this is violation of these particular laws carry with it a potential term of imprisonment. Under Massachusetts laws, any firearms violation that carries such penalties is an automatic statutory disqualifier. Keep in mind that it does not matter if you did not serve any time, simple conviction is enough to meet the disqualifier. As always, even if you are not convicted, a local licensing authority can always pull the “suitability” card out and revoke your LTC that way.

Convictions of these laws can also not be reviewed by the Firearm Licensing Review Board (Chapter 140, Section 130B) established in GOAL’s 2004 reform bill. The FLRB cannot review any petitioner who has been convicted of a firearm offense carrying with it potential imprisonment.

Below is a synopsis of the laws regulating storage, transportation and public way issues: STORAGE OF GUNS: (Chapter 140, section 131L) Warning: The penalties for failure to comply are quite severe.

The law requires guns to be stored in a specific manner. All guns, when not in use, with the exception of primitive firearms, must be stored or kept “secured in a locked container or equipped with a tamper-resistant mechanical lock or other safety device,” to prevent unauthorized use. Penalties are assessed even if no underage person obtains access.

Chapter 140, Section 131L (b) A violation of this section shall be punished, in the case of a firearm, rifle or shotgun that is not a large capacity weapon, by a fine of not less than $500 nor more than $5,000 or by imprisonment for not more than one year, or by both such fine and imprisonment, and in the case of a large capacity weapon or machine gun, by a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $10,000 or by imprisonment for not less than one year nor more than ten years, or by both such fine and imprisonment. (c) A violation of this section shall be punished, in the case of a rifle or shotgun that is not a large capacity weapon and such weapon was stored or kept in a place where a person under the age of 18 who does not possess a valid firearm identification card issued under section 129B may have access without committing an unforeseeable trespass, by a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $10,000 or by imprisonment for not less than one year (continued on next page) March 2012

From the Massachusetts State House (continued from page 8) nor more than ten years, or by both such fine and imprisonment. (d) A violation of this section shall be punished, in the case of a rifle or shotgun that is a large capacity weapon, firearm or machine gun was stored or kept in a place where a person under the age of 18 may have access, without committing an unforeseeable trespass, by a fine of not less than $5,000 nor more than $10,000 or by imprisonment for not less than two and one-half years, nor more than ten years, or by both such fine and imprisonment. (e) A violation of the provisions of this section shall be evidence of wanton or reckless conduct in any criminal or civil proceeding if a person under the age of 18 who was not a trespasser or was a foreseeable trespasser acquired access to a weapon, unless such person possessed a valid firearm identification card issued under section 129B and was permitted by law to possess such weapon, and such access results in the personal injury to or the death of any person.

junior reserve officer training corps (iii) any law enforcement officer, agent or employee of any municipality of the commonwealth, if the persons described are authorized by a competent authority to so carry a loaded or unloaded rifle or shotgun on a public way and such person is acting within the scope of his duties or training, or (iv) a person who is lawfully engaged in hunting and is the holder of a valid hunting or sporting license. (Chapter 269, section 12D).

Leadership Movement in Senate With the resignation of Senator Steven Tolman, who left to take the post of President of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO, there has been some movement in the senate. Senate President Therese Murray announced the changes the same day that Governor Patrick swore in Tolman’s replacement, William Brownsberger.

Brownsberger was the state representative in the district and decided to run for the senate seat.

The following is the new senate leadership lineup: Senator Fredrick Berry – Majority Leader Senator Jack Hart – Assistant Majority Leader Senator Stanley Rosenberg – Senate Pro Tempore Senator Harriette Chandler – Majority Whip Senator Karen Spilka – Assistant Majority Whip

TRANSPORTING IN A VEHICLE: (Chapter 140, section 131C) The law specifies how certain types of guns are to be transported.

• Handguns under a Class A License: “No person carrying a loaded firearm (i.e. handgun) under a Class A license to carry firearms… shall carry the same in a vehicle unless such firearm while carried therein is under the direct control of such Rep. Pedone person.”

Steps Down • Handguns on a Class B Yet another License: “No person carrying a Massachusetts firearm under a Class B license to legislator has carry firearms shall possess the stepped down same unless such weapon is before their term unloaded and contained within the was over. This locked trunk of such vehicle or in time it is a very a locked case or other secure high ranking container.”

Former Rep. Vincent member of the • Large Capacity rifles and Pedone House. Chairman of shotguns: “No person possessing a large capacity rifle or shotgun under a the Committee on Bills in Third Reading Class A or Class B License… shall Vincent Pedone of the 15th Worcester possess the same in a vehicle unless such District officially resigned his position as weapon is unloaded, and contained within state representative on Friday, January 20, the locked trunk of such vehicle or in a 2012. According to reports the former Rep. has accepted the position of locked case or other secure container.”

• Rifles and Shotguns: “No person .. executive officer of the Council of shall have in his possession or under his Presidents of the Massachusetts State control in or on any vehicle or aircraft a University System. The Rep. worked to secure $90 million is state funding for the loaded shotgun or rifle.

UMass Medical School during his tenure CARRYING RIFLES OR SHOTGUNS as state representative.

ON A PUBLIC WAY: (Chapter 269, Bills on the Move section 12D) As we have entered into the second The state has enacted specific requirements for carrying a rifle or part of the two year legislative session there are a few bills that have begun to shotgun on the person on a public way.

• Loaded guns: Except as exempted or move in the process. Most of the bills provided by law, no person shall carry on concerning gun owners and sportsmen have already his person a loaded rifle or shotgun had hearings. on a public way (see exemptions S.1226 “An Act below).

Relative to • Unloaded guns: Except as Remove Pepper exempted or provided by law, no Sprays from person shall carry on his person on F i r e a r m any public way an unloaded rifle or Identification” shotgun unless such rifle or shotgun filed by Senator is enclosed in a case. This Ross. The bill subsection “does not apply to drills, seeks to do parades, military reenactments or away with the other commemorative ceremonies, licensing color guards or memorial service Sen. Richard Ross requirement for firing squads, so called, as permitted pepper spray. by law.”

The bill was released favorably from the • Exceptions: The provisions of these Joint Committee on Public Safety. It was sections do not apply to (i) any officer, then sent to the Senate Ways and Means agent or employee of the Commonwealth Committee. GOAL fully supports this or any other state, or the United States (ii) effort. The bill does appear to need some any member of the military or other amending to succeed. The current service of any state or the United States, language does away with the licensing including national guard, reserves and March 2012

The

language, but not the requirement. In short, what needs to be added is the removal of sprays from the “Ammunition” definition in Chapter 140, Section 121.

This was a simple oversight as it moved from the committee. It should be a simple matter to amend the bill and have it proceed.

Current definition: “Ammunition”, cartridges or cartridge cases, primers (igniter), bullets or propellant powder designed for use in any firearm, rifle or shotgun. The term “ammunition” shall also mean tear gas cartridges, chemical mace or any device or instrument which contains or emits a liquid, gas, powder or any other substance designed to incapacitate.

H.2400 “An Act Relative to Youth Hunting Programs” filed by Representative Gobi. The bill had two goals. The first was to reduce the youth FID card (under 18) to $25. That was succeeded in last year’s budget process.

The second part was to allow youths to apply for an FID Card at age 14 so they could receive upon turning 15. The bill was released favorably by the Joint Committee on Natural Resources and now resides in the House Ways and Means Committee.

H.1135 “An Act Relative to the Use of Crossbows” filed by Representative Humason. The bill would simply remove the statutory restrictions on the use of crossbows for hunting. This would allow the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife to regulate the use of crossbows just as they do for other bows. The Bill was released favorably from the Joint Committee on Natural Resources. It has not yet been

Outdoor Message

assigned to its next progression and may actually be assigned a new number.

GOAL will update our members as the information becomes available.

H.3700 “An Act Relative to the Licensing of Firearms for Persons 70 Years of Age or Older” filed by Representative Pignatelli. The bill seeks to clarify that a person 70 years of age or older shall pay no fee for an LTC. The current language in the law states “over 70” and some local authorities take that to mean 71. The bill has passed the House and is awaiting action in the Senate. This bill also needs an amendment to include the same correction for the FID card law.

H.1994 “An Act Expanding the Powers of the Director of Fisheries and Wildlife” filed by Representative Gobi. The bill has been just recently amended and released by the Committee on Natural Resources.

The current language is not yet available on the state website. The language provided to GOAL essentially would allow the DFW to regulations allowing Sunday hunting during the last three month of the year for bow hunting only.

S.661 “An Act Relative to Common Defense” filed by Senator Brewer. The bill would expand on the Massachusetts “Castle Doctrine”. It would recognize the right for self defense or the defense of others any place one has the right to be.

The bill also provides for protection against civil suits from assailants who are injured. This bill has not moved yet, but recently had a hearing before the Joint Committee on the Judiciary. To our knowledge there were no testimonies in opposition. ★

Page 9

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces Annual Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Elementary, middle and high school teachers are encouraged to have their students participate in the annual Endangered Species Day Youth Art Contest, an integral part of the seventh annual national Endangered Species Day, celebrated on May 18, 2012.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and numerous conservation organizations will observe Endangered Species Day to recognize conservation efforts underway across the nation aimed at helping America’s imperiled species.

Started in 2006 by the United States Congress, Endangered Species Day is a celebration of the nation’s rarest plant and animal species. The Youth Art Contest provides students from kindergarten to high school with an opportunity to learn about endangered species and express their knowledge and support through artwork. Young artists who are home

schooled and participate in youth groups are also eligible to submit their art. Entries must be postmarked by March 15, 2012.

The Youth Art Contest will be judged by a prestigious panel of artists, photographers and conservationists. Winners will be chosen in four categories: K-Grade 2, Grades 3-5, Grades 6-8 and Grades 9-12, and will receive plaques and art supply gift packs.

In addition, one grand prize winner will be honored with their name engraved on a special trophy and receive a round-trip flight to Washington, D.C. with one guardian to attend a reception in May. The grand prize winner will also receive a special art lesson (via Skype) from wellknown artist Wyland.

The Youth Art Contest is organized by

the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Endangered Species Coalition, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art/ University of New Orleans.

For more information, including judging criteria and an entry form, visit <http://www.endangered speciesday.org/> Many of the Service’s field and regional offices will be hosting events in their communities and providing unique programs to visitors on endangered species conservation in celebration of Endangered Species Day. For more information on how you can find an event near you, please visit <http://www.fws. gov/endangered/ESDay/2012.html>.

America’s fish, wildlife and plant

resources belong to all of us, and ensuring the health of imperiled species is a shared responsibility. To learn more about the Service’s Endangered Species program, go to <http://www.fws.gov/endangered/> where you can download podcasts and find links to follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit <http://www. fws.gov/>. ★

The National Rifle Association (NRA) has established a program created exclusively for America’s military and law enforcement personnel. Called “NRA Life of Duty,” the initiative encompasses a new class of sponsored NRA membership, a state-of-the-art online network and a digital magazine— designed for those who make their living defending the American way of life.

At NRALifeOfDuty.tv, those who wear a uniform and carry a firearm can find news, discussion and support geared toward their unique line of work—be it profiles of those who share a common duty, reviews of the latest tools and equipment critical to their next mission, or a message of thanks from citizens

nationwide.

NRA Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre explained the importance of reaching out to those who put themselves in the line of fire on a daily basis. “These brave men and women wake up every morning, strap on a gun, and go to work to protect us. They are our true heroes.”

Specific content on the NRA Life of Duty network features Patriot Profiles, with broadcast-network quality stories covering those serving in uniform at home and abroad. Frontlines with Lt Col Oliver North, USMC (Ret.) offers never-beforeseen footage and reports with American heroes. NRA American Warrior is an exclusive digital magazine with interactive media, videos and articles

detailing the latest tactics and technology.

Colt’s Manufacturing has provided its support to the “Warrior Features” of the magazine.

A number of companies stepped up at the outset to support the NRA Life of Duty launch. Brownells, the world’s largest supplier of firearms accessories, has lent exceptional support as the presenting sponsor. And Brownells Law Enforcement Division - PoliceStore.com sponsors the NRA Life of Duty Gear channel. This extensive section features high-quality photography and video of top equipment and clothing, plus a complete list of gear discounts available to NRA Life of Duty members.

The network also features Live and Listening, a regular, live commentary show; My Hometown, a place for families and friends to submit videos and stories from their hometown to those deployed; plus Archives, a channel celebrating veterans and their achievements.

Sponsor an NRA Life of Duty Membership The NRA is now making it possible to sponsor an NRA Life of Duty membership for those serving in military and law enforcement. A $50 membership includes gear discounts, the NRA American Warrior digital magazine, as well as $25,000 in life insurance benefits for qualified NRA Life of Duty members, plus $2,500 for family travel when a loved one is wounded. Those who wish to sponsor NRA Life of Duty memberships for men and women at home and abroad can do so by visiting <http://nralifeofduty. tv/sponsor> or by calling 1-877-NRAGIVE. To become a corporate sponsor of NRA Life of Duty content or to provide gear discounts to NRA Life of Duty members, please email Nicole Capossela at ncapossela@nrahq.org. ★

The National Rifle Association (NRA) will hold this year's Annual Meetings and Exhibits at America's Center in St. Louis, Missouri from April 12-15, 2012.

Over 60,000 attendees are expected at this year’s Annual Meetings and Exhibits, making this one of the largest in NRA’s 141-year history. Leading firearm manufacturers will display the firearm industry’s latest and greatest products.

Guides and outfitters, various hunting and shooting accessories, and an extensive private collection displayed by NRAaffiliated gun collector clubs will fill acres of convention space.

The ever-popular NRA’s Celebration of American Values Leadership Forum will take place on Friday, April 13. A list of confirmed speakers will be available closer to the event.

NRACountry, a proud partnership between NRA and country music's brightest stars is pleased to present, in collaboration with Bushnell, NRACountry Jam II at the Ferrara Theatre on Friday, April 13. This year's featured artist will be country music superstar and

lifetime NRA member Trace Adkins.

NRA’s 4th Annual Celebration of American Values Freedom Event will take place Saturday, April 14, at 7:30 pm.

Glenn Beck, political commentator and host of the Glenn Beck Program, will be the featured speaker for the evening.

Guests will also be treated to a rousing performance by award-winning comedian and member of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, Larry the Cable Guy. NRA’s Annual Meetings and Exhibits provide a safe and fun atmosphere the whole family can enjoy. The ever-popular air gun range is a top attention-grabber -both for participants and observers. NRA offers diverse seminars throughout the three-day convention, including methods of concealed carry; hunting; Firearms Law; the Grassroots Workshop; and Refuse to Be a Victim®.

For more information, including event tickets, please visit www.nraam.org. For updates and announcements, follow NRA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ NationalRifleAssociation and on Twitter @NRAILA. ★

NRA Life of Duty Program Honors and Assists Those Who Put Themselves in Harm’s Way

NRA's Annual Meetings & Exhibits 2012: A Celebration of American Values

We’re not sure if this coyote is watching over someone or simply trying to introduce himself. Thanks to George Mclean for another beautiful photograph. If you would like to share a moment caught in nature, please forward your photographs to editor@theoutdoormessage.com.

Page 10

The

Outdoor Message

March 2012

Legislative Proposals to Watch in the Commonwealth Listing provided by Gun Owners’ Action League

GOAL has been monitoring the bills below, and have been on the watch for any other proposals that would affect the rights of gun owners and sportsmen. This list will change frequently, as action on them is taken at the state house.

You can read GOAL’s summaries of the bills, and the full text of these bills, at <http://www.goal.org/legislation.html>. Please be sure to contact your legislators regarding any proposals that you feel strongly about - whether you are in support of them or in opposition.

House Bill # H.257 H.270 H.428 H.639

H.657 H.665 H.667 H.670 H.971 H.1150 (GOAL bill) H.1135 (GOAL Bill) H.1287 (GOAL Bill) H.1318 H.1349 H.1552 H.1561

H.1562 H.1566 (GOAL Bill) H.1567 (GOAL Bill) H.1568 (GOAL Bill) H.1822

H.2166 H.2396 H.2399 H.2400 (GOAL Bill) H.2402 (GOAL Bill) H.2404 H.2838 H.3315

Committee Assignment Codes ENRA = Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture JUD = Joint Committee on the Judiciary PSHS = Joint Committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security SARO = Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight VFA = Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs H-WM = House Ways & Means S-WM = Senate Ways & Means

Bill Title

Sponsor

An Act An Act An Act An Act An Act An Act

An Act An Act An Act An Act

Relative to the Hunting of Bear Relative to Hunting or Trapping on Private Land relative to hidden compartments Relative to the Licensing of Certain Automatic Weapons relative to shooting near highway or dwelling Relative to Firearms in the Commonwealth Relative to the Possession of Weapons Relative to the Sale of Firearms for Veterans Hunting and Fishing Licenses Relative to Waterfowl Hunting

An Act Relative to the Use of Crossbows

An Act Regarding Breaking and Entering a Firearm Retailer, Wholesaler or Manufacturer An Act Increasing Penalties for Felons in Possession of Firearms in the Commonwealth An Act Relative to Dangerous Weapons An Act Relative to the Licensing Fees of Firearms An Act to improve the ballistic database through microstamping ammunition An Act to Restrict the Issuance of Licenses to Carry Firearms An Act Relative to Constitutional Rights An Act Relative to the Right to Carry Firearms

An Act Relative to Civil Rights and Public Safety

A legislative amendment to the Constitution to exclude matters relating to fisheries and wildlife from the subject matter of initiative petitions An Act relative to security in all court buildings and facilities An Act further regulating the issuance of firearms identification A petition relative to hunting on Sundays An Act relative to youth hunting programs

An Act relative to the lawful use of shotguns

An Act relative to a report of firearms statistics An Act to prevent bulk purchasing and illegal trafficking of firearms An Act Valuing our Natural Resources formerly titled An Act relative to trapping for the purpose of capturing furbearing mammals H.3700 for- An Act Relative to the Licensing of Firearms for Persons 70 Years of Age or merly H.653 Older H.3995

An Act Repealing the Ban on Modern Sporting Arms

S.782

An Act relative to the criminal firearms and trafficking division of the state police An Act relative to deceptive weapon devices

Senate Bill #

S.832 (GOAL Bill) S.835 S.1189 S.1191 S.1195 S.1202 S.1207 S.1214

S.1223 (GOAL Bill) S.1224 S.1226

S.1234 S.2054

March 2012

Bill Title

An Act enhancing public safety through the use of technology An Act relative to the lawful sale of ammunition An Act relative to small caliber ammunition An act regarding the prevention of illegal trafficking and gun violence among youth in the Commonwealth An Act relative to preventing illegal trafficking of firearms An Act to increase the penalties for the illegal possession of firearms

Rep. Todd M. Smola Rep. Martin J. Walsh Rep. Stephen L. DiNatale Rep. Antonio F.D. Cabral

Rep. Kathi-Anne Reinstein Rep. Timothy J. Toomey, Jr Rep. Timothy J. Toomey, Jr Rep. Daniel K. Webster Rep. Thomas M. Stanley Rep. George N. Peterson, Jr

ENRA ENRA JUD PSHS - in study PSHS PSHS PSHS PSHS VFA ENRA

Support Needs further study Oppose as written Oppose

Rep. Christine E. Canavan

PSHS

Support

Rep. Donald F. Humason, Jr Rep. Russell E. Holmes Rep. David M. Nangle Rep. F. Jay Barrows Rep. David Paul Linsky

Rep. David Paul Linsky Rep. George N. Peterson, Jr Rep. George N. Peterson, Jr Rep. George N. Peterson, Jr Rep. Anne M. Gobi

Rep. John V. Fernandes Rep. Anne M. Gobi Rep. Anne M. Gobi Rep. Anne M. Gobi

Rep. Kate Hogan

Rep. Bradley H. Jones, Jr Rep. David Paul Linsky Rep. Anne M. Gobi

Rep. William Smitty Pignatelli Rep. George N. Peterson, Jr

ENRA JUD

JUD PSHS PSHS PSHS PSHS PSHS PSHS

Ought Not to Pass JUD PSHS PSHS H-WM

PSHS

PSHS PSHS Released to H-WM Passed by House

Oppose Oppose Oppose Support Support Support Support

Oppose Oppose Support Oppose Oppose Support Support Support Support Support Support Support Support

Support

Support Oppose Support Support Support

Sponsor

Committee Assignment GOAL Position

Sen. RIchard T. Moore

JUD

Support

Sen. Cynthia Stone Creem Sen. EIleen Donoghue

PSHS PSHS

Oppose Oppose

Sen. Jennifer L. Flanagan Sen. Anthony Petruccelli Sen. Stephen M. Brewer Sen. Stephen M. Brewer Sen. Sonia Chang-Diaz

An Act requiring a firearms licensing authority to provide a receipt for Sen. John F. Keenan firearm license applications An Act prohibiting the confiscation of lawfully owned firearms during a state Sen. Richard T. Moore of emergency An Act relative to a study commission on GPS locators in firearms Sen. Anthony Petruccelli An Act relative to remove pepper spray from firearms identification.

Minority Whip Richard J. Ross This bill is a combination of H.658, H.1578 and H.2403

An Act establishing the Massachusetts armor piercing law Sen. James E. Timilty An Act relative to habitual offenders, sentencing and improving law enforce- Sen. Cynthia Creem-Stone ment tools The

Committee/ GOAL Position Status

Outdoor Message

JUD

JUD PSHS PSHS PSHS PSHS PSHS

PSHS S-WM

PSHS S-WM

Support

Oppose Support Support Oppose Support Support

Oppose Support

Oppose Oppose as written

Page 11

Junior Duck Stamp Celebrates 20 Years Of Connecting Children With Nature Teachers, parents, scout leaders and other educators looking to connect their students with nature through science and art should consider submitting a waterfowl art entry to the Massachusetts Junior Duck Stamp (JDS) Program. The entry deadline is March 15, 2012.

Modelled on the adult waterfowl stamp competitions, the Junior Duck Stamp Program was launched by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), to increase young people’s awareness of the importance of preserving wetland habitats, waterfowl conservation and wildlife observation. The USFWS plans to launch a new curriculum to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the JDS. Entries are judged in four categories representing grades K-3, grades 4-6, grades 7-9 and grades 10-12. All entrants are recognized for their efforts, with the top 25 in each grade category receiving additional recognition. The overall state winner represents Massachusetts at the National Competition. Official entry information is posted at the US Fish & Wildlife Service website at <www.fws.gov/juniorduck>.

“The Junior Duck Stamp Program is a great way to introduce conservation through the arts,” says Pam Landry, MassWildlife Education Coordinator.

“Not only is it fun to create a drawing or painting, it’s interesting for participants to learn about the species being drawn so it can be depicted in its natural habitat.” For more details contact Pam Landry at pam.landry@state.ma.us or 508-389-6310.

Sign Up For Hunter Education

New and novice hunters of all ages are encouraged to make a New Year's resolution to sign up for a free Basic Hunter Education Course in the winter or spring months of 2012. Students who successfully pass the course will receive a Basic Hunter Education Certificate of Completion, which is needed to purchase a Massachusetts hunting or sporting license. These Certificates of Completion are recognized in all the United States, Canada and Mexico for the purchase of a hunting or sporting license. The Certificates allow individuals 15 years of age or older to apply for a firearms license with their local police departments. The MassWildlife Hunter Education Program offers courses from January through October. A schedule is posted on the website at: <www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/ education/hed/hed_basic_listing.htm>.

Students who want to be notified about courses in their area are encouraged to complete and submit an online form <www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/education/ hed/forms/basic_request_form.htm>, to

Where to find MassWildlife Mail: 1 Rabbit Hill Road, Westborough MA 01581 Phone: 508-389-6300 Email: Mass.Wildlife@state.ma.us Website: www.MassWildlife.org receive advance notice of courses scheduled in their area.

"Many people fail to consider signing up for a course in the winter or spring months because they aren't thinking about hunting," says MassWildlife Hunter Education Program Administrator Susan Langlois. "By completing a course early in the year, new hunters have time to apply for a firearms license, practice newly-acquired skills, and scout potential hunting locations." By law, this course must be at least 12 hours in length but is typically 15-16 hours to cover all required topics. Courses are offered in different formats to meet the public's needs. Some courses are scheduled over several weekday evenings. Some are conducted on weekends, while others are a combination of weeknights and weekend days. All classes are provided at no charge to the students. Topics covered during the Basic Hunter Education course include the safe handling of hunting arms and ammunition, hunting laws and ethics, identification, wildlife wildlife management, care and handling of game and personal preparedness.

It is the mission of the Massachusetts Hunter Education Program to train safe, knowledgeable and responsible hunters; to promote the wise management and ethical use of our wildlife resources; and to encourage a greater appreciation of the environment through education. Funding is derived from the sale of hunting and sporting licenses, and from federal excise taxes on firearms and archery equipment.

Massachusetts offered its first hunter safety course in 1954, and to date has graduated more than 183,000 students.

Graduates who have lost their certificates may obtain a duplicate by calling the Hunter Education Program office in Ayer at 978-772-0693, or completing an online form requesting a duplicate <www.mass. gov/dfwele/dfw/education/hed/hed_dupli cates.htm>.

Eagle Count Results

Despite a morning of fog and rain followed by high winds, sightings of 45 individual bald eagles were reported from Pittsfield to Plymouth on Friday, January 13, 2012, as part of a one-day survey effort by state wildlife biologists, volunteers and other eagle enthusiasts.

This event is part of an annual national bald eagle survey conducted over a 2week period from January 4 – January 19, 2012. Poor weather conditions, which resulted in the cancellation of a planned helicopter survey of the Quabbin Reservoir and Connecticut River, were a major factor in a low number of eagles spotted. Eagles also dispersed across the state due to the lack of ice on many ponds and lakes, making it more difficult for spotters to find birds.

"Though sightings were low on this particular day, thanks to our restoration program begun in 1982, bald eagles are doing very well in Massachusetts," said

SWIFT RIVER GUNWORKS

Gunsmith - 25 years - Full Service - Full Time

450 State St., Belchertown MA 01007 413-658-5690 www.sr-gunworks.com

Call 413-323-4052 9-4 days, 9-11 AM Saturday Estimates over the phone Quote on Examination DEALER - CLUB DISCOUNTS FOR VOLUME

DOUGLAS F. EVERETT, GUNSMITH Page 12

FFL 1E-36592 The

Dr. Tom French, Assistant Director for Natural Heritage and Endangered Species. At that time, MassWildlife and its partners brought young eagles from Canada and Michigan and raised them in cages overlooking the Quabbin Reservoir.

Some of the eaglets remained and began to nest in the Quabbin, later spreading to the Connecticut River and eventually across the state where 35 breeding territories are now established. French noted that in September of 2011, the Fisheries and Wildlife Board voted to downlist the Bald Eagle from Endangered to Threatened on the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act list. The downlisting will not be official until published in the Code of Massachusetts Regulations.

In the Northeast District, 3 eagles were spotted on the Merrimack River and 1 in Saugus. In the Southeast District, spotters in the Lakeville/Middleborough area reported 3 eagles on Pocksha Pond and 3 eagles were seen at North Wattupa Ponds in Fall River. Four eagles were seen in Pembroke and 6 birds were reported on waterbodies in Plymouth. In the Central District area, 3 eagles were reported at Wachusett Reservoir, 3 on Webster Lake, 1 in North Uxbridge, 2 in Northbridge and 2 on Quaboag Pond in Brookfield. In the Connecticut Valley District, 6 eagles were spotted from the Enfield Lookout at Quabbin Reservoir, 1 reported on the Westfield River, 2 eagles seen on the Chicopee River and 1 eagle was seen on Lake Rohunta in Orange. In the Western District 1 eagle was seen in Sheffield, and 1 was seen in Blandford.

French expressed thanks to citizen eagle spotters. "Citizens play an increasingly important role in our survey efforts. This year, we received 90 emailed reports from people who saw eagles during the 2-week survey period. Last year 61 people emailed us reports.”

The annual Midwinter Bald Eagle Survey is a nationwide event coordinated by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The nationwide total of bald eagles counted during this annual event ranges from 13,000 to 16,000 birds.

Enter The Get Outdoors Mobile App Contest!

The tech-savvy public is invited to enter the “Get Outdoors Massachusetts Mobile App Contest”. Environmental agencies are seeking assistance in developing technologies that feature Massachusetts’ outdoor recreation and natural resources.

The goal of the competition is to create an application in which people use a smart phone to locate state wildlife management areas, state parks and forests, state boat ramps, farm tours and other state outdoor recreation venues.

Deadline for submitting an entry is March 30. Contest details can be found at <www.mass.gov/ eea/mobileappcontest>.

March To Conservation Conferences

Several annual conservation conferences taking place in March are valuable for conservation commissioners, educators, youth group leaders, bird enthusiasts and other conservationists. MassWildlife staff will be participating at most of these meetings.

March 3 - Massachusetts Association of Conservation Commissions

Outdoor Message

Conference, Worcester. The 2012 MACC Annual Environmental Conference will be held at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester. DFW staff will be making presentations about “Managing WhiteTailed Deer Populations in Massachusetts” and “Defusing Landowner/Conservation Conflicts: Protecting Habitat for Endangered Species and Other Wildlife with Conservation Design”. Registration information is at <www.maccweb.org/ edu_aec.html> or call MACC at 617-4893930.

March 3 - MassAudubon Birders Meeting, Waltham. The 20th Annual Birders Meeting will be held at Bentley University, Waltham. Novice and experienced bird enthusiasts will enjoy the varied offerings at this conference.

Registration information is at <www.mass audubon.org> or call 781-259-2136.

March 14 Massachusetts Environmental Education Conference, Worcester. The 2012 Massachusetts Environmental Education Society (MEES) will be holding its annual conference at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester. This year’s theme is “Refresh: New Tools and Techniques for Today's Educators.” This conference is useful for educators in both formal and non-formal educational settings. More details at <www.massmees.org>.

March 24 – Massachusetts Land Trust Conference, Worcester. The 22nd Annual Mass Land Conservation Conference will take place at the Worcester Technical High School. DFW staff will participate in a roundtable session titled “Deer Populations on Land Trust Lands”.

Registration is limited. Details on the conference and registration can be found at <www.massconservation.org>.

Housing Appeal For Wood Ducks In Massachusetts

There is a wildlife housing need in Massachusetts that conservationists of all kinds can support! The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife is welcoming donations of constructed wood duck boxes or lumber for building boxes. Wood ducks are one of the few kinds of waterfowl (ducks and geese) that nest in cavities or holes in trees. There are not enough natural cavities available in the state for nesting, but constructed boxes have filled the gap. While wood ducks are wintering in warm, southern climes, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) biologists and technicians will soon be braving chilly winter temperatures on icy ponds, marshes and other wetlands evaluating the condition of wood duck boxes and replacing boxes that are missing or in disrepair. “Wood duck hens will return to the same box to nest year after year,” said H Heusmann, DFW Waterfowl Project Leader. “Imagine the plight of a wood duck hen coming back from wintering down south and finding her nesting site gone.”

Heusmann noted that in 2009 when an appeal for wood duck boxes went out, the public response was gratifying. Within a month of the call for wood duck nest boxes, sportsmen, Boy Scouts, school groups and individual conservationists built and donated over 200 boxes, or the lumber to make wood duck boxes. This filled the immediate need for 2009 and was a very helpful boost for the 2010 (continued on next page) March 2012

HAMILTON-WENHAM ROD AND GUN CLUB

GOAL 100 Club Member

PO Box 2413 ✣ South Hamilton, MA 01982 www.hwrgclub.org

President: V. President Secretary: Treasurer: Range Officer: Chief Instr: Range Const.

Bill Terry Bob Young Rick Southgate Ronayne Schild Lane Mann Mike Pelonzi Mike Tolvanen

General Membership Meeting January 17, 2012. Meeting came to order approximately 7:35 PM. In accordance with custom, the meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a moment of silence to honor all our deceased members and for all our men and women serving in the armed services that have lost their lives or are still fighting for our freedom.

Board members present were Bill Terry, Mike Tolvanen, Bob Young and Paul Rullo. Attendance was logged in as 30 members including 4 Board members.

Please remember to sign in prior to the meeting.

Bill Terry, President, ran the meeting.

Call for New Members

Six applications for membership were received, reviewed and unanimously approved by general vote. The names of the new members are Robert Hannah, Samuel Townsend, Joseph Roberts, Chris Costa, Ed O’Connell and Don Seitzinger.

Treasurer’s Report

Treasurer was absent, therefore no report.

Range Officer Report

• Range cleanup occurred January 15.

Thanks to Peter Prulux, Mike DeSantis,

Kalil Boghdan and Jim Main for their effort.

• Safety is the most important and only factor to be considered when setting up targets for any shoot. It’s not about the degree of difficulty. Please think through aim, point, barrel swing and weather conditions when setting targets.

• Please send plans for shoots for the next two months. My plan is to create a schedule of events. This is in response to comments from members who did not receive adequate notification of shoots.

Secretary Report

• A motion to accept the Secretary's Report was made, seconded and accepted by a voice vote.

• To date 158 members have renewed their membership, 126 members are pending for a total of 284 members. Six new members at tonight’s meeting therefore membership is 290 members.

• First batch of NRA and GOAL renewals will be delivered by the club this week.

• March 20th is the deadline for renewal without the late fee penalty of $10 per month retroactive to January 1.

Range Construction Report

• Work party scheduled for Saturday, January 28th.

• It is difficult to read the handwriting on the WIP sign-in sheets and some members have not had their hours registered. WIP hour sign-in sheets should have member names printed and also include the member’s badge number.

• The Club will consider hiring a

contractor to install safety eyebrows.

• Be aware that the Town is surveying at the Town Dump this week

motion to accept the proposal was made and seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote.

Mike Pelonzi our Chief Instructor is holding classes as usual. Anyone interested please contact Mike for more information.

• There will be a .22 shoot on Sunday, February 15. There has been a request for an AK shoot. There will be a cowboy action shoot on Saturday, February 11.

• The Propagation License from the State was obtained for the upcoming fish stocking. A motion to spend $1,000 for fish stocking was made and seconded.

The motion passed on a voice vote.

• Shooters should be familiar with their firearms and always leave the action open when not on station.

• The President recommended that a new Membership Committee be created and that the Secretary’s position be changed to Recording Secretary. This is recommended because the computer skills and effort required to track the membership data is large and it has evolved into a dedicated position. The former Secretary, Joanne Southgate, has volunteered to be the Membership Committee. A motion to accept the proposal was made and seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote.

Chief Instructor

Essex County League

Mike Tolvanen reported on several possible new hunting and fishing regulations discussed at the previous meeting.

There was no report from Long Term Planning Committee or GOAL.

Environmental Stewardship

The club is looking for someone to act as our environmental steward. Anyone interested in this position and what it entails should contact Bill Terry.

Old Business

March 2012

For more information about this project, see the Great Outdoors Blog on wood duck placement written last winter at <http://environment.blog.state.ma.us/ blog/2011/01/field-report-duck-boxes-onice-needs-photo.html> or contact H Heusmann at 508-389-6321.

New Antlerless Deer Permit Procedures

The Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (DFW) is announcing details on the new 2012 procedures for applying and obtaining Antlerless Deer Permits.

Information flyers are now available from DFW District Offices, the Westborough Field Headquarters and have been posted on the agency website at <www.mass. gov/dfwele/dfw/recreation/licensing/per mits/adp_home.htm>.

As in the past, deer hunters must apply for an antlerless deer permit either when they purchase their license or at any time prior to this year’s permit application deadline July 16, 2012. Applications can only be made through the electronic MassFishHunt system through the Internet, an authorized licensing agent location, or any MassWildlife Office.

There is no longer an application form to mail to the Division.

A new second step in this process, called the Instant Award phase, requires that ALL antlerless deer permit applicants return to the MassFishHunt website beginning August 1, 2012 to try to win an antlerless deer permit in the zone for The

Good of the Order

• The Club received a proposal to lime the shotgun range with 14,000 pounds of lime at a cost of $4,225. A motion to accept the proposal was made and seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote.

• A representative from the Club’s Insurance Company will attend next month’s meeting to explain our insurance policy. Please send Bob Young any questions or comments in advance to allow the individual to prepare a response.

• The Club would like to contribute $1,000 for the Archery in Schools Program for the town of Ipswich. A

Bill Terry asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:20 pm. The motion was made, seconded and passed on a voice vote. ★

which they previously applied. Hunters may access MassFishHunt via the Internet, any authorized license agent location, or any MassWildlife Office.

Upon returning to the MassFishHunt site, the applicant or licensing agent will select the zone for which the hunter previously applied, and the system will instantly notify the applicant if he/she has won an antlerless deer permit. If the permit is won, the hunter can pay the $5.00 permit fee immediately and print the permit, or leave the winning permit in the shopping cart where it will remain until payment is made or until the permit expires. As in the past all permits expire on December 31st.

Permit issuance through the new Instant Award system will be completely random but still based on a percent chance of winning. As in the past, winning percentages will be determined by the number of permits available for each Wildlife Management Zone (WMZ) divided by the number of applications for each zone. The Instant Award system is not a first-come/first-served system,

meaning that hunters will have the same odds of winning a permit in their selected zones whether they return on August 1st or December 31st. Only hunters who applied during the Application Period will be able to try for an antlerless deer permit during the Instant Award Phase.

Applicants will have ONE attempt to try to obtain an antlerless deer permit during the Instant Award Phase. Hunters are reminded that DFW will no longer conduct a permit drawing, the permit process will no longer involve hunting/ sporting license numbers and DFW will no longer mail antlerless deer permit notifications to permit applicants.

Any surplus antlerless deer permits will be available in October for any zone in which DFW has more permits available than hunters who apply. These surplus antlerless deer permits will continue to be issued on a first-come/first-served basis.

Surplus antlerless deer permits will be available over the counter through authorized license agent locations, and DFW Offices. ★

More News from MassWildlife (continued from page 12)

season. Wood duck box plans are posted on the Division’s website at <www.mass. gov/dfwele/dfw/wildlife/facts/birds/ w a t e r f ow l / w o o d _ d u c k _ b o x . h t m > .

Heusmann points out that these specific plans should be used as the design makes it simple to swap out parts and to place the boxes. Duck boxes need to be constructed with rough-cut pine, making the box easy to transport, and allowing newly-hatched ducklings a more secure foothold as they scramble up and out of the box for their first swim. Completed wood duck boxes can be dropped off at any of the five district offices located in Pittsfield, Belchertown, West Boylston, Acton and Bourne, or the DFW Field Headquarters in Westborough during business days and hours. Depending on the weather, the window of opportunity for safe, strong ice to put up new boxes closes by late February, therefore, box delivery by early February would be ideal for this year’s need. Unused boxes will be kept in storage and used in the following season.

For conservationists who don’t have the time or ability to build a box but want to support this project, the Massachusetts Outdoor Heritage Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, is partnering with the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife in this appeal by accepting donations of money and materials that will go directly toward wood duck nest box construction. Mail a check to P.O. Box 47, Westborough, MA, 01581 or pay through the Foundation’s website at <www.massoutdoorheritage.org>. Gifts to the Foundation are tax-deductible.

New Business

Terry Goode

If anyone is interested in purchasing an antique Richardson & Overman Gallagher Civil War single shot percussion rifle please contact caire20@hotmail.com

Meeting Adjournment

Tues & Wed 12 to 5 pm Thurs & Fri 10 to 7 pm Sat 9 to 4 pm

Collectors Firearms & Militeria 122 Bridge Street, Unit 9 Pelham NH 03076

Outdoor Message

603-635-9699 603-635-8443 Page 13

THE GOAL FOUNDATION

37 Pierce Street ● PO Box 567 ● Northborough, MA 01532 ● 508-450-5120 ● www.thegoalfoundation.org

President: David Tetzloff Secretary: Michael D. Yacino Directors: Al Bonney, Dee Bonney, Don Holmes, Coach Russ Doucette, Coach Kevin Winters, Joe Colbert

Promoting the safe and lawful use of firearms through public education.

The GOAL Foundation Smallbore Postal Matches The GOAL Foundation runs conventional smallbore postal matches to promote the shooting sports among young people. Any Massachusetts boy or girl who had not reached their 20th birthday by December 31st, 2011 may compete. Clubs or organizations submit the scores monthly to the GOAL Foundation, Attn: Jon Green, PO Box 567, Northboro, MA. 01532.

The Postal Matches began in November 2011 and will run through April 2012. Scores must be postmarked by the 5th of each month. Targets may be fired at the convenience of the competitor under the supervision of the local instructor or coach.

Club

The GOAL Foundation Postals Name

Junior

Marlborough Fish & Game Harvard Sportsman Club Harvard Sportsman Club Maynard Rod & Gun Club Nenameseck Sportsmens Club Nenameseck Sportsmens Club Nenameseck Sportsmens Club Nenameseck Sportsmens Club Lenox Sportsmans Club Intermediate Junior Bass River Rod & Gun Bass River Rod & Gun Bass River Rod & Gun Marlborough Fish & Game Harvard Sportsman Club Harvard Sportsman Club Harvard Sportsman Club Harvard Sportsman Club Harvard Sportsman Club Harvard Sportsman Club Maynard Rod & Gun Club Maynard Rod & Gun Club Maynard Rod & Gun Club Nenameseck Sportsmens Nenameseck Sportsmens Nenameseck Sportsmens Nenameseck Sportsmens Nenameseck Sportsmens Nenameseck Sportsmens Lenox Sportsmans Club Lenox Sportsmans Club

Club Club Club Club Club Club

Sub Junior Bass River Rod & Gun Bass River Rod & Gun Bass River Rod & Gun Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Hopedale Pistol & Rifle Club Harvard Sportsman Club

Harvard Sportsman Club Maynard Rod & Gun Club Maynard Rod & Gun Club Maynard Rod & Gun Club Marlborough Fish and Game Marlborough Fish and Game Nenameseck Sportsmens Club Nenameseck Sportsmens Club Nenameseck Sportsmens Club Nenameseck Sportsmens Club Lenox Sportsmans Club Lenox Sportsmans Club Lenox Sportsmans Club

Page 14

All firing will be conducted according to the NRA rulebook for smallbore rifle.

The GOAL Foundation recommends that all competitors fire the NRA Three Position Course; 20 shots prone, 20 shots kneeling, and 20 shots offhand. All firing will take place on the A-36 target.

Competitors may participate in 1 or all positions by firing 20 shots at two A-36 targets per position. For complete rules, you may visit <http://www.thegoal foundation.org/juniorpostal.html>.

There is no fee charged to participate in this program. The GOAL Foundation believes the importance of attracting new shooters is the highest priority. Donations are very much appreciated. ★

Prone Stand

Kneel

188 154 98 136 180 163 139 184 175

163 92

Jessica Grindell Alicia Peirce John Duncan Will Aube Mark Vicik Dana Cochrane Colleen O'Shea Thom McNiff Rebecca Kimball Gabriella DeMeo Corey Steap Peter Patsios Bennett Skoletsky

178 124 112 137 174 188 156 158 92 80 48 124 118

138

140

2nd S

122 120 98 102

112 126 134 108

3rd S 1st P

22 75

20 52

Andrew Williams Dennis Pikul Jacob Adams Margaret O'Brien Ross Hughes Travis Toelken Steve Bohin Geno D'Agostino

Sara Kuehne Ryan Kyle Alyssa Kuehne Owen Mulroney Liam Foley Austin Quinn Logan Quinn Jayden Seto Nick Ober Sophia Reid Margaret Reid Wiley Kimball Ahrin Helka Cole Leonard Angle Guerrero Chris Franks Amanda Rutkowski Griffin Millette Jacob Edelen Andrea Woods Ben Whitcomb Andrew Ramjug Paul Ferrecchia Colton Valchuis Brendan O'Brien Collin Williams Patrick O'Brien Zuzu Demetrius Steve Silverman Steve LaRochelle Will Kipp

186 136 167 149 160 162 179

142 33 81 66 80 116 122

130 82 98 72 119 121 55 171 103 159 162 168 141

168 100 155 124 136 154 142 113 82

153 141 118 156 161 135 128 156 114 130 119 142 121 133 159 118

85 165 70 132 144 146

66XXX

Caliber/Gauge ConAction dition Finish Sporterized, no 7 mm Bolt good mum, Monte Carlo

NSN

12ga 3" Pump 85%

Make

Model

Serial #

Marlin

336

AB59XXX

Japanese Stevens

Arisaka 77F

30-30 Lever

90%

Blue w/ scope

Blue, 28" Mod

Cost

$125 $350 $150

The GOAL Foundation would like to thank the following individuals for their generous donations!

A. Quintin, J. Cassella, J. Gonzalez, F. Thomas, H. LeBlanc, D. Handlowich, J. Lamprey, A. Dalton, W. Forbes and R. Leganza, L. Segal.

2nd P 2nd S, 3rd K

Danvers F&G members Al Finn Left and Bob Tozier unload various handguns while Bill Appel observes. The GOAL Foundation was honored to provide 14 Danvers Fish and Game Club members with the NRA Range Safety Officer course this past February.

Photo by Jon Green

2nd P, 1st S, 1st K 2nd K

3rd K 3rd P, 3rd S

3rd K

74

54

3rd S

78

58

2nd S

52 32 82 71 65 29

47 138 90 95 94 111 98

79

All sales benefit the programs of The GOAL Foundation. If you would like to purchase one of these items, call Jon at 508-393-5333 x21.

3rd P, 2nd K 3rd S

105

73

2/10/12

1st P, 1st S, 1st K

Margot Lee Nick Hildreth Danielle Kimball Harry Elder Ben Regin Jacob Carman Joe Pikul Evan Lagrant Rebecca Nicholson

91 110 136 65 55 142

185 104

Guns For Sale

1st P, 1st K

1st S 3rd P 2nd P, 2nd K The

The GOAL Foundation Upcoming Courses

Courses listed are held at The GOAL Foundation headquarters located at 37 Pierce Street in Northborough MA, unless otherwise noted.

Please note, class availability is limited. Some classes may sell out early. If you would like to register for a class or would like information on other classes that may be available, call 508-393-5333 ext 22.

A complete course listing for the year can be found at http://www.thegoalfoundation.org/courseschedule.html Course Title

Date

NRA Instructor Course Basic Pistol & Home Mar 2-4 Firearm Safety NRA Basic Pistol Course Mar 6 Gun Law for Citizens Mar 8 NRA Reloading Metallic Cartridge Mar 14-15 PowerPoint for Trainers Mar 27 NRA Basic Pistol Course Apr 3 The Art of Concealed Carry in Massachusetts Apr 5 Utah Non Resident CCW Apr 12 Kubaton Apr 18 Introduction to IDPA Apr 24 Introduction to the Modern Sporting Rifle AR15 May 15 NRA Reloading Metallic Cartridge May 16-17 Introduction to IDPA May 22 BFS Law Primer May 24 Introduction to IDPA May 26 Disarming & Retention May 30 Gun Law for Citizens May 31 Secrets of the Concealed Carry Snub Jun 5 The Art of Concealed Carry in Massachusetts Jun 7 Introduction to the Modern Sporting Rifle AR15 Jun 12 Introduction to the NRA Instructor Course Jun 14 NRA Basic Pistol Course Jun 19 NRA Basic Pistol Course Jul 10 NRA Basic Pistol Course Jul 24 Combat Focus Shooting with Rob Pincus Jul 31 - Aug 1 Advanced Pistol Techniques with Rob Pincus Aug 2-3

Outdoor Message

Tuition

GOAL Member/ Non-member

$295 / 450 $95 / 145 $15 / 45 $90 / 120 $35 / 70 $95 / 145 $65 / 125 $75 / 100 $75 / 115 $65 / 125 $65 / 125 $90 / 120 $65 / 125 $25 / 60 $65 / 125 $75 / 115 $15 / 45 $250 / 290 $60 / 120 $65 / 125 $20 / 60 $95 / 145 $95 / 145 $95 / 145 $350 / 400 $350 / 400

March 2012

GOAL Foundation Raffle The GOAL Foundation is running a raffle through April 2012. All raffle prize winners will be drawn at The GOAL Foundation board meeting to be held on May 3rd. Winners will be contacted by The GOAL Foundation personnel. There will only be 1,000 tickets printed for the raffle and tickets will sell at $10 each.

Funds from The GOAL Foundation Raffle will be used towards anticipated building expenses and expanding support for junior shooting teams.

We have 3 great raffle prizes! Details of each and more information on all raffle prizes are listed below.

❶ 1 week stay/ Cape Breton Island N.S. Home Discover wild life at its finest! Enjoy 200 acres of land with trails for hiking from Ocean front home shown above, located on the Old Cabot Trail. The home includes 4 bedrooms, 2 kitchens, 1 TV room, 1 playroom w/ping pong table, 2 full baths and 1 outdoor beach shower. Other local attractions include:

World famous Highlands National Park, horse back riding, whale watching, golf, Celtic music, fishing and kayaking!

National Geographic has listed Cape Breton Island as the #1 Island to travel to in Canada or the US. The winner will be provided contact information to plan the week to be taken with the homeowner.

❷ Full Day Striped Bass Fishing Trip for 4 with Jac’s Mate in Eastham, MA Captain George Ministeri welcomes you to come aboard Jac's Mate for sport fishing from Wellfleet Harbor. The Captain knows where the big ones are and can set you up with the right bait and pole to maximize your chances of snagging the catch of the day. Contact Jac's Mate for a productive and responsible sport fishing experience!

Phone: 508-255-2978, email: jacsmate@comcast.net or visit: www.home.comcast.net/~jacsmate/. ❸ ½ day Striped Bass/Bluefish fishing for 4 with Tuna Hunter Fishing Charters

✮✮

The GOAL Foundation Raffle Ticket Order Form

Name____________________________________________________________

Address__________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

I would like to purchase ____ tickets

Total amount enclosed ____

Please mail me a receipt ____ I do not need a receipt ____ _______________________________________________________________

Return with payment to: The GOAL Foundation, PO Box 567, Northborough MA 01532.

Mar2012 in Rockport, MA Striped Bass and Bluefish charters are our most popular, as striped bass are plentiful in Cape Ann waters, easy to catch for new anglers and offer actions throughout one's charter.

Striped Bass/Bluefish fishing charters offer light tackle fishing action in close to the rocks and island shores of Cape Ann, MA. Stripers and Bluefish are often taken trolling live bait or select lures or umbrella rigs - a great hit, and a great fight! Striped bass fishing and

bluefish charters are great for young anglers, or those who wish to enjoy the scenery of Cape Ann MA and comfort of close proximity to land. Contact Captain Gary Cannell at 978-407-1351 for more information! Or visit his website: www.tunahunter.com.

Special thanks to R. Doucette, G. Ministeri and G. Cannell for generously donating these raffle prizes!

If you have any questions or would like to charge by phone you can contact Michelle directly at 508-450-5120. ★

Gun Owners’ Buyers Guide ✮ ✮

Are you in need of a product or special service? Wouldn’t you like to know that you are giving your money to a business who believes in the same things you do? Following is a list of businesses who are owned or run by GOAL members. They have agreed to give a donation to The GOAL Foundation for every GOAL member who shops at their store or uses their services. So when you shop at these businesses, tell them you are a GOAL member and saw it in the Gun Owners Buyers Guide! Participation is voluntary - the people listed have asked to be a part of this Guide.

Help support fellow GOAL members. Take advantage of the Gun Owners’ Buyers Guide.

Accounting/Tax Services L.A. Jones Tax & Accounting Services (L.A. Jones) Milford MA 508-634-2711

Acupuncture Acupuncture Center of Canton (Jeffrey S. Wernick, Lic. Ac., LICSW) Canton MA www.acupuncture.mysite.com 781-8286636 Archery Supplies Eryleen Archery Pro-Shop (Emery Loiselle) Burlington MA 781-272-0244

Attorney Attorneys & Counsellors at Law (Josef J.D. Gazzola) 781-235-4989 Botanical Skincare Arbonne International (Michelle Siudut) ww.michellesiudut.myarbonne.com 508341-4796

Building/Remodeling Roche Home Improvement (Gregory Roche) Sagamore MA 774-696-2470 Phillips Fine Carpentry & General Contracting (Phillip DeFreitas) Groton MA 781-718-7123 Curtis K. Abbott Co Inc (Curtis Abbott) Charlton MA 508-248-4416 www.curtiskabbottco.com Mr Fix It (Eddy Provost) Worcester County MA 508-798-8216 Computer Consulting S&H Associates (Steven Sotsky) Framingham MA 508-656-0613 www.sandhcomputers.com Computer Software Services Information Server Company (Pascal Cleve) Sudbury MA 978-443-1435

Concrete, Granite & Asphalt Cutting & Coring Concrete Cut & Core (Curtis Abbott) Charlton MA 508-248-7778 www.concretecutandcore.com Constable/Notary Raymond Harris Constable Service, Dedham MA 781-326-7597 Northern Process Servers (Ronald Bertheim) Greater Lawrence MA 978-685-0093 Segal Constable Services (Len Segal) Sharon MA 781-784-5924 For more information about the Gun Owners’ Buyers Guide call 508-450-5120.

March 2012

Consultant on Liquor Liability Issues Truth or Dare (Brad Greenfield) Wellesley MA 781-789-0675 Deep Sea Fishing Trips Tuna Hunter Fishing Charters (Gary Cannell) Rockport MA 978-407-1351 www.tunahunter.com Dentist Dental Care North (John Kozlauska, DMD) Lynnfield MA 781-334-2520

Electrical Contractor Morse Electric (Richard A. Morse) Rowley MA 978-948-2727 EJ Kennedy Master Electrician (Eric Kennedy) North Attleboro MA 508-TUGWIRE Firearms Instruction Joe Nava, Fairbanks AK 907-479-2340

Flooring Touchdown Carpet & Flooring (Doug Gibbs) Marlboro MA 508-480-8552 Argopoxy Floor Coatings (Eric Gustafson) Southampton MA 413-203-5143

Graphic Design On Point Graphics (Steve Moore) Norton MA 508-942-8125 Gun Sales Mike’s Gun Shop (Jon Green) Northboro MA 508-641-0116 Gunsmithing LaRocca Gun Works (Mike LaRocca) Worcester MA 508-754-2887 ww.laroccagunworks.com

Masonry & Hardscape Supply TLC Supply, Inc. (Donald Ross) Quincy MA 617-773-0055

Plumbing & Heating Russo Plumbing and Heating (Steven Russo) Boston MA 617-201-8042

Promotional Imprinting Gumption, Inc. (Joe Cassia) Malden MA 781322-6400 Sky Line Screenprinting (Tom Bashista) Southampton MA 413-527-6299 www.skylinescreen.com MCA Promo (Michael Amburgey) Lunenburg MA 978-582-3662 Real Estate Scharpenter Realty (Jack Scharpenter) Lakeville MA 508-946-5602 Amaral Resendes Realty (Kevin Landry) New Bedford MA 508-542-4973 Peter Neslusan at the Mercure Group 508277-7503

Scaffolding Cape Cod Staging (Kevin Kelleher) New Bedford MA 508-992-2411, Cranston RI 401-941-6660

Security EJ Kennedy Security/Life Safety Systems Contractor (Eric Kennedy) North Attleboro MA 508-TUG-WIRE

Septic Inspection Lane Septic Inspection (Brian Lane) Walpole MA 508-212-2916

Signs, Truck Lettering, Graphics Signmaker1.com (Leonard Mort) Millbury MA 508-865-2382 Stained Glass Custom Stained Glass (Jack Hurley) South Easton MA 508-238-0386

Steel Buildings Metal Building Concepts (Brian Robbins) Merchant Services/Credit Card Processing Raynham MA 508-828-1368 CoCard (Michael Roux) Canton MA 978-337Surveying & Engineering 7126 Landmark Engineering of New England Mortgage/Real Estate Loans (Brian Lane) Norfolk MA 508-384-3064 Bank of America (Lex Towle) Peabody MA TV & Satellite 978-869-2424 Reliant Mortgage Company (Brian Hazard) Pierce TV & Satellite (Richard “Ben” Pierce, Jr.) East Falmouth MA 508-548-4519 Westborough MA 508-836-4167 x106 Optometrist Dr. Arthur Breen, Peabody MA 978-532-0097 Charlton Optical (David Snowdon) Charlton MA 508-248-1188

Outdoor Wood Furnace Crystal Rock Farm (Eliot Starbard) Oakham MA 508-882-0178 The

Outdoor Message

Vacation Resort Liberty Haven Ranch (C.D. or Jeanne Tavares) Wickenburg AZ 623-640-7880 www.libertyhaven.com Website Development Gumption, Inc. (Joe Cassia) Malden MA 781322-6400

Page 15

HOLYOKE REVOLVER CLUB, INC.

P.O. Box 543 - Holyoke, MA 01041 - 413-539-9345 - holyokerevolverclub.com

President - Normand Desilets Secretary - Richard Asselin Directors - George Apgar, Jr. Vice-president - Joseph Knapik, Jr. Membership Secretary - William Burgess Joseph Kingsley Treasurer - Richard Moreau Governor - Daniel Jones James King

RSO Course

The club will hold an NRA Range Safety Officer training course the weekend of March 3 and 4. Anyone interested in becoming a certified RSO should leave a message on the club telephone at 413539-9345. Rob Lombardi and Norm Desilets are the training counselors.

Reloading Course

The club will hold a reloading course on April 7, according to instructor Ralph Rechenberger. The one-day program is an NRA-certified course in metallic cartridge reloading. Cost is $60, and it is limited to 12 participants.

New Pistols

The club has ordered new Ruger Mark III .22 pistols for the monthly NRA Basic Pistol course. When they are delivered the current Ruger Mark II pistols will be offered for sale through a local FFL dealer. Any member interested in purchasing one should leave a message on the club phone or speak with one of the club officers.

Western Mass. Pistol League Banquet

The annual WMPL banquet will be held on April 21 at Tony and Penny’s Restaurant in Ludlow. The event is open to any HRC member and his or her guest, regardless of whether they participated in this year’s matches. Tickets are $23 and are available from Ron Mehlhorn.

Friends of NRA Banquet

The Pioneer Valley chapter of the Friends of NRA will hold its annual banquet on May 11 at the Castle of Knights in Chicopee. Tickets are $40, and are available from George Apgar and Norm Desilets. The Friends group is the fundraising arm of The NRA Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides grant money for youth programs, training, range development and other educational efforts. The club has received grants for the junior rifle program and several range improvement projects.

HRC Joins NSSF

The board of directors recently voted to

MAPLE TREE INDUSTRIAL PARK 21 Wilbraham St, Building 35 - Palmer, MA 01069 413-283-9975

508-867-6800

Also - target, personal defense, cowboy, plinking, shotguns, rifles and much more.

Hours: Mon, Wed, Fri 12 PM to 7 PM Sat. 10 AM - 4 PM

(EXPANDED AND UPDATED)

OF THE LAW IS NOT ONLY NO EXCUSE , IT CAN BE VERY EXPENSIVE AND LAND YOU IN JAIL .

Contents: 1. Copy of Statutes Relating to hunting, Firearms, Rifles, Shotguns and Ammunition 2. Copy of Regulatory References 3. Copy of Gun Application Form with Suggestions on Filling Out 4. List of State Police Approved Gun Locks 5. Selected Federal Law and Statutory References 6. Summary of 1998-1999 statutory changes 7. Common Questions with Answers 8. Discussion and Case Law relating to Licensing, Firearm (possession and carrying), Purchase and Sale of Guns and Ammunition, Definitions, Firearms in a Motor Vehicle, Citizens Right of Arrest, Civil Liability (with Cases), Use of Force and Deadly Force (with Cases), Criminal Liability 9. Domestic Violence under Federal and State Law 10. Fully Referenced for case of use 11. Designed for Gun Owner - Police Officer - Attorney - Security Personnel - State Police Approved Instructors 12. Over 140 pages of valuable information. 8 1/2x11 pages lay flat for easy reading Civil and criminal sanctions are serious - Jail sentences added and expanded.

Cost: $24.50 (includes tax & shipping). Send check to William M. Cloran, Esq. 50 Union Street, Suite 1, Newton Centre, MA 02459 Phone 617-969-2001 Fax 617-969-6517

Also available...

“Criminal Law Reference Handbook” and Motor Vehicle Law Reference Handbook” Cost: $17.95 each (includes tax and shipping)

Page 16

Badges

Following a recent discussion by the board of directors, the membership voted at the February meeting to purchase plastic ID carriers so that HRC members can display their membership cards while on the club ranges.

Junior Rifle

The club’s junior rifle program meets on Thursday evenings at 5. The junior program is open to 12 – 20 year-olds with parents’ permission. Several Scout organizations have received Merit Badge training, as the club instructors are now certified as merit badge counselors.

Interested parties should call the club phone at 413-539-9345. Jim Torrey is in charge. Adult volunteers are needed.

New Members

MASSACHUSETTS FIREARM MANUAL

I GNORANCE

HRC has returned to the keyed padlock system on the club gates. Members have received keys with their 2012 membership cards. At the end of the year the keys should be returned to be used in a future year.

Ann Robinson and Robin Torrey are planning a Women On Target session to be held at the club at a date to be announced. Anyone interested in participating in the NRA-sponsored event should contact Ann or Robin.

Junction of Rt. 9 & Rt. 148 Brookfield, MA

HUGE SELECTION OF USED HANDGUNS - 1911’s in 10mm, 45, 38 super, 9mm -

New Locks

Women On Target

Over 35 years experience Free Estimates * 100 satisfaction guarantee

TOMBSTONE Trading Company

join the National Shooting Sports Federation. The NSSF is a trade association of the firearms industry whose mission statement is “To promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports.” The NSSF sponsors programs for clubs to improve their facilities and protect the environment,

The

Junior member Jacob Prystowski of Southampton, Eric Szlachetka of Chicopee, Glen Zeh of West Springfield, Jason Ryan of Southwick, Elsworth Wilmot of Springfield, Christopher Dupuis and Barbara Lynch of Westfield, Howard Tuber of Monson, Dale Desmarais of Hampden and Thomas Kane of Holyoke all joined the club at the February meeting.

HRC Hats and Patches

Hats and jacket patches embroidered with

Robert Lombardi David Matuszek Ronald Mehlhorn

the club’s logo are now available for sale from Membership Secretary Bill Burgess.

NRA and GOAL

The club encourages its members to join the National Rifle Association and Gun Owners’ Action League, the state rifle and pistol association. Ed Pelland is the club recruiter for both organizations, and handles membership applications and renewals for both. Club members can save $10 per year by renewing their NRA memberships through Ed for $25, rather than the standard $35. Ed receives NRA points for each renewal or new membership, which he applies to NRA memberships for the junior members of the club.

Fun Shoots

Dave Sparko conducts fun shoots on Tuesday evenings at the club.

Competitors shoot .22 pistols at steel plates and a “Dueling Tree” of spinning targets, trying to move all of the discs to the opponent’s side of the tree. Match schedules will be posted on the club’s website and calendar.

Practical Matches

The club holds practical matches on the fourth Saturday of the month. New shooters should arrive at 9 am for safety instruction. Participants should bring a centerfire pistol or revolver and 100 rounds of ammunition, extra magazines and speedloaders, a holster, which is not a shoulder or crossdraw model, a baseball cap and eye and ear protection. Chris Fila is in charge. Volunteers are needed to set up the stages, and should arrive at 8 am.

Pistol Course

Holyoke Revolver Club conducts an NRA Basic Pistol course every month.

Successful participants receive both the NRA certificate and the Massachusetts state certificate required for firearms licenses. Information is available at the club website or by leaving a message on the club phone at 413-539-9345. The club is now listed on the NRA website and will appear on a zip code search for NRA instruction. The club now has more than a dozen NRA-certified pistol instructors and a similar number of certified Range Safety Officers. Marshall Johnson is chief instructor.

50/50 Raffle

New member Barbara Lynch won $36.00 in the February drawing. Badri Debian’s name was picked to win $200.00, but he was not present, so the money will be in the March drawing. ★

Shooters, Law Enforcement, Hunters, Industrial Applications, and Military

EAR SAFETY SYSTEMS Specialized Hearing Systems

Insta-Mold Provider

Communication Earmolds, Electronic Hearing Protection, Specialty Laboratory Earmolds

www.EarSafetySystems.com

Email: EarSafetySystms@aol.com

Outdoor Message

Phone: 617-429-4596 March 2012

WRENTHAM SPORTSMEN’S ASSOCIATION

PO Box 83 - 7 Madison Street - Wrentham, MA 02093 508-643-1322 - www.wrenthamsa.com

Club Event Schedule Mar 3 ...........

Mar 17 .........

Mar 31 .........

Apr 7............

Apr 7............

Apr 9 ...........

Apr 14..........

May 12 ........

Jun 3 ............

Jun 16 ..........

Aug 12.........

Sep 16..........

Oct 8............

Dec 15 .........

Meetings: Advisory Board: First Monday of the Month, 7 pm; General: Second Monday of the Month, 7 pm

Game Dinner St. Patrick’s Day Event Porketta Pond Cleanup Anniversary Party Fisherman’s Night Opening Day Sausage Dinner Chicken BBQ Youth Day Kiver Fest Pig Roast Hunter’s Night Xmas Party

All Dates: We could use help during any event listed above. Please contact the club to get appropriate committee contact.

New Members be sure to fulfill your work party commitment.

Website

http://www.wrenthamsa.com

Range

The range is a private range except during shoots. Other than those times, nonmembers are only to use range as a guest when they are accompanied by a member in good standing.

Competition shoots at the club are held on Sundays at 1:00 PM. The entry fee is $20.00. You will shoot 10 targets at 2 distances. The distances normally are 25 and 50 yards for rifle. The distances normally are 15 and 25 feet for pistol.

Prizes of steaks or gift certificates are awarded to the highest shooter of each round. Shooters may only win twice, once at the closer distance and once at the further distance. The shoots are open to all. Plan on 50-60 rounds for rifle and pistol shoots, less for black powder and shotgun slug shoots.

Any ideas for future shoots would be greatly appreciated; you may contact John directly or email the editor with your comments.

Range hours are 7 am to ½ hour after sunset Monday through Saturday and 9 am to ½ hour after sunset on Sundays. The lighted Pistol Range is open until 9 pm each night.

There will be no range use during scheduled archery events.

Conservation Camp

If you are interested in doing reloading, and never knew how to get started, you can contact John Dennis and he will set something up. more For information or interest about the range or events you may contact John Dennis 508-3847607.

Taras Suchy’s daughter Julia will be going to the MA Junior Conservation Camp.

Junior membership to the club is for ages 13-18 and is a yearly fee of $5.00

From The Kitchen

As always we will be serving a meal on Meeting Nights. Cost is always $5.00. Check at the club for details.

S h o o t Schedule 2012 Mar 11 M o u n t a i n Man (Pistol, Rifle, Black Powder) Mar 25 Military Pistol .45’s all clones or any authentic military hand gun Apr 15 Shotgun, Turkey (no slugs) #4, #5, #6 shot Apr 29 Pistol, Center Fire May 20 Rifle, Military (no scope) sling allowed Jun 10 Rifle, .22 Rim Fire, Benchrest Jun 24 Pistol, Black Powder Jul 8 Pistol, center Fire with 3” barrel or shorter Jul 22 Pistol, Rim Fire Aug 5 Rifle, Military (No scope) Aug 19 Ultimate shoot Sep 9 The Great Vegetable shoot (Sidelock) Sep 23 Pistol, Rim Fire Oct 7 Rifle, .22 Rim Fire Oct 21 Rifle, Center Fire, Benchrest Nov 4 Military Rifle and Pistol (Sling Allowed) Nov 18 Shotgun, Slug and Gauge Dec 2 Rifle, Black Powder Rifle Dec 16 Pistol, Center Fire 25 and 50 yards Dec 30 Military Rifle, armrest permissible All Shoots Start Promptly at 1:00 pm

Trap

Trap shoots every Thursday at 7 pm and Sunday at 10 am. The cost is $3 per round. There is to be no lead shot fired at the trap field. Wrentham Sportsman is a non-toxic shot only trap field.

WINTER LEAGUE has begun.

There will be no trap shooting during scheduled archery events.

Newcomers are always welcome.

There is always help for newcomers. The winter league is coming sooner than you think, so get to the trap range on Thursday night and get practiced for the upcoming league season.

Steel shot ammunition is always available at all trap shoots.

For more information or interest about the trap range or events you may contact Dave Deschamps 508-883-7959

Fish & Game

BAD DOG !!!!!

March 2012

Pizza Fridays

Date

NICE BUCK !!!!!!

Current leader of the first annual Coyote Pool is lead by Gary Who with a 37 Lb female. Great work guys & nice photos.

Keep ‘em coming.

Club and local ice fishing derbies are posted on the club calendar so stop by to check the schedule and join in. This year’s ice conditions have been terrible at best.

Most derbies have been canceled due to lack of safe ice, so check the board at the club for schedule or cancelations.

New members, see the fish & game committee to get your work party hours signed off. Good luck hunting & fishing and be safe.

For more information or interest in fish and game you may contact Gary "Who" Duquette at 508-384-3415 or e-mail at gyduke28@msn.com Give a man a fish feed him for a day; teach a man to fish feed him for a lifetime.

Each Friday night through the winter, come to the club and warm up with the best pizza around. The club will be having pizza nights every Friday through the end of March. The prices are reasonable, so come down and spend some time with your fellow members and socialize over the current hunting season.

2012 OFFICERS President First V.P. Second V.P. Rec Sec. Financial Sec. Treasurer

Jim Stella Tom Stella Dan Sbardella Keith Sharron Howie Taras Suchy

Share Your Story

If you are a member and would like to have your story or information published in the next issue, my contact information is Chuck DuPont email: cdupont@assabet.org ★

Archery

Note League Schedule Change: The practice archery range now is lighted and open until 9 pm at night.

3-D shoots for 2012 are as follows: May 6, August 26, September 2. As always our 3-D course uses Rinehart Targets.

The daily course has been removed for the winter, but will redo it in the spring.

For more information on any of the Tri-county league shoots visit <http://www.oldbow.com> For more information or interest about archery or events you may contact Chuck DuPont 508-520-3339.

Wednesday night archery will resume in the Spring.

Before you buy...

Give us a try!

LEE SPORTS CENTER NEW & USED FIREARMS OF ALL TYPES.

GUNS AMMO HOLSTERS CLEANING GEAR POLICE GEAR

Hours: Tues.-Sat. 12 Noon - 6 pm

CASH PAID FOR USED GUNS! WE BUY ONE GUN, OR WHOLE COLLECTIONS

Law Enforcement Equipment, Inc.

781-894-2954

305 River St, Waltham MA 02453

“You Won’t Believe Our Prices” THE AREA’S LARGEST SUPPLIER OF BLACK POWDER RIFLES, SHOTGUNS, HANDGUNS AND ACCESSORIES

FISHING SUPPLIES

Shiners l Night Crawlers l Dillies l Trout Worms l Meal Worms

508-695-4852

REGISTER NOW FOR NRA/STATE FIREARM SAFETY CLASSES

Members harvested a lot of deer this year.

The photos keep coming in.

Sean Hartley took the archery pool with a beauty during this season, Ron Duquette won the shotgun pool with an 8 pointer, and black powder won by Gary "Who" with an 8 pointer.

The

TOLL FREE 800-473-3006

Rt. 152 / 580 Kelley Boulevard, North Attleborough MA Please tell our advertisers you saw it in

Outdoor Message

The

Outdoor Message™ Page 17

OLD COLONY SPORTSMEN'S ASSOCIATION, INC.

Forest Street - Pembroke, Massachusetts 781-293-9980 (weekends) www.old-colony.org

Next meeting date: March 5, 2012

Next General Meeting

ESP

Pistol

Monday, March 5, 2012 - 7:00 PM

Ron H spoke on the soil assessment around the club and has a meeting with the DEP on Monday 2/13.

Gallery pistol team is shooting great; they have a 10-4 record, placing them in 3rd at the moment. Anyone interested should see any team members for upcoming schedule on Thursday nights.

Bullseye Clinic’ runs on Wednesday nights and a new clinic starts soon, see Rick or Ron for info.

Monthly Meeting Report Monday February 7, 2012. The February monthly meeting opened with the pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and a moment of silence for our troops serving our country.

Over 45 members were present.

membership

Herb Pitts presented 13 applicants for membership. All applicants were accepted and welcomed to the club.

Secretary Report

The secretary report from the January meeting was read and accepted by the membership.

Treasurer’s Report

Chuck Climer reported on the financials for January. Report was accepted and posted.

Scholarship

Applications are being accepted for Scholarships, see the Old-Colony.org website for the details and application forms.

Rifle

200 yard relays are running all day on Sundays, they are getting a great turnout.

April 1st is the German Rifle shutzen, come down, shoot, admire these beautiful rifles.

Junior Programs

The indoor junior rifle program is ongoing with about 10 kids per Saturday, Franco’s high powered rifles team is gaining in numbers and are expected to send a small group to the Eastern Match Rifle competition.

Black Powder

Bill Earl reporting on some upcoming shoots, Feb 18 & 19 in New Bedford. A two day event in Tiverton, March 18 & 19.

Old Colony on March 25th. For info contact Bill at 781-383-0248.

Shotgun

Shotgun shooting skeet, trap and 5-stand Saturday, Sunday and Wednesdays, new members welcome to come check it out.

Lucky Ham shoot will be held April 1st, expect a good turnout.

50/50 Raffle

won by Bob Bassett, congrats.

Old Business

Comedy night was a success and the club made a few dollars. Thoughts on a meat raffle and St. Patrick’s Day dinner were well accepted, so be on the lookout for tickets! 3/17

New Business

The Wankinquoah club in Middleboro is offering use of their indoor range in trade for use of our outdoor facilities. Anyone interested in getting a keycard, contact Mike E 508-866-2565.

Hunter Ed safety class at Hanson Rod and Gun club, M,T&F, first two weeks in April. See website for details. Old Colony is looking to be a host club for May dates, info to follow.

We are looking for volunteers to help host a 300th birthday fun shoot.

Outdoor Range discussion of splitting the rifle and pistol areas, Proposal for appropriating funds to start project, with final details for the design to follow was passed by members.

Meeting Adjourned at 8:44 PM. Submitted by, Stephanie Turnbull, Secretary ★

SOUTH FITCHBURG HUNTING & FISHING CLUB

Mailing: P.O. Box 687 - Townsend MA 01469 Location: 60 Warren Road Townsend MA Club phone 978-597-8733 * Secretary’s phone 603-878-1142 * Secretary’s email: kblincoln2@comcast.net Web site: http://www.southfitchburghuntingandfishingclub.org

The February 4th 2012 membership meeting was called to order by President Bill Farnum at 3:00 pm. There were 34 members present. After the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence the meeting was put on hold until 3:30 pm to finish the voting.

Board Meeting: March 1, 2012 at 6:30pm Membership Meeting and Banquet March 3, 2012

New Members

The club would like to welcome Breanna Gerow who became a junior member this month.

Derbies

The club held its first ice fishing derby of the year on January 22nd. We had an

excellent turnout for such a cold start to the morning. Unfortunately the trout weren't as active as everyone would have liked but still some nice ones were caught.

First place went to Bill Farnam with a 16 ¼ inch trout. Second place went to Tom Lagasse with a 15 1/8 inch trout and third place went to DJ Irvine with a 13 7/8 inch trout which was also his first one ever through the ice. Congratulations to all who caught fish.

Looking forward to Spring time, we will be having our first open water derby on Sunday, April 8, 2012. It will run from 7 am to 1 pm, breakfast and lunch will be served. Please keep the date in mind and come out to support the club.

Meat Raffles

Scheduled for April 1st is the Easter Meat

South Fitchburg Hunting & Fishing Club 60 Warren Road Townsend, MA 01469 Club’s Number- (978) 597-8733 2012 Calendar

Saturday, March 3rd ............Annual Meeting/Banquet Sunday, April 1st..................Easter Meat Raffle, 1 - 4 pm Sunday, April 8th .................Fishing Derby, 7 am - 1 pm Sunday, May 6th..................Member/Guest Derby, 7 am - 1 pm Sunday, May 20th................Meat & Seafood Raffle, 1 - 4 pm Sunday, July 1st ..................Meat & Seafood Raffle, 1 - 4 pm Sunday, August 26th ...........Meat & Seafood Raffle, 1 - 4 pm Sunday, September 16th.....Kid’s Only Derby, 9 am - 1 pm Saturday, September 22nd..30 hr Fishing Derby, 7 am - 1 pm on Sunday Sunday, October 7th............Fishing Derby, 7 am - 1 pm Sunday, November 4th........Fishing Derby, 7 am - 1 pm Sunday, November 18th......Slug Shoot, 10 am Sunday, November 18th......Turkey Raffle, 1 - 4 pm Sunday, December 9th........Holiday Raffle, 1 - 4 pm Page 18

The

Raffle. Please spread the word around to friends and family to come out and join us.

New Business

Voting took place at the meeting and the results are: Vice President Mike Winitzer with 31 votes.

Secretary Jim Yeaton with 31 votes.

Executive Officer Larry Bevis with 31 votes.

Board of Director Vern Leger with 31 votes.

The fate of the large pavilion by the archery range was decided. There were 7 votes in favor of repairing it but with 17 votes the majority spoke and it will be torn down as soon as the weather permits us to have a work party or two. I'll keep you informed of the date when it's decided.

The .22 shoots will begin at the April membership meeting at 1:00 pm

depending on the mud situation.

Good and Welfare

Renewals are rolling in and the club would like thank all who have generously donated to the stabilization fund for the club. We all appreciate your support in these tough economic times.

The club would like to send out get well wishes to Paul Thomas. We wish you a speedy recovery.

Not present to win the attendance prize at the meeting was #28 Emile Maillet. The five dollar consolation prize was won by Bill Farnam. The 50/50 raffle was worth $52.00 and was won by Tony Genova.

100 Club winners were: #37 Bill Gerow (Bill), #7 Sean Gerow (Bill), #84 Jamie LeClair (Vern), #4 Anita Leger (Vern), #76 Bob Dion (Bob).

With no further business the meeting was adjourned at 3:57 pm.

Respectfully submitted, Jim Yeaton ★

the rom by. f ers der inn ice w y e Th nuar Ja

Outdoor Message

March 2012

CAPE COD FISH & GAME ASSOCIATION

Depot Street, North Harwich MA 02645 - Club Lodge 508-432-4457 Mailing Address: PO Box 119 Harwichport MA 02646

President Jim Gillespie 1st Vice President George Baggitt Treasurer Ricardo Vasconcellos

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day to all our club members and their families. May the luck of the Irish be with you and that’s no Blarney!!

2nd Vice President Dan Welch Secretary Bob Preston

March Meetings

The March Business Meeting will be held on Tuesday Evening, March 13th, 2012.

Dinner will be served at 7 PM and the business meeting will begin about at 8 PM. All members are reminded to arrive early for a good seat.

Please be advised the March Board of Directors Meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 27th, 2012 at 7:30 PM.

Hunter Safety Course

George O’Baggitt All members are advised that an Archery Hunters Safety Course will be offered here at the Cape Cod Fish & Game Association clubhouse on Saturday, March 10th, 2012. The course is offered and provided by the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife and will be instructed by our own Gary Kaser.

All interested archers who wish to attend are urged to contact George Baggitt at any club meeting. Seats are limited!

Club Food Drive

Bill O’West Please be advised that the green tote in the clubhouse is for our food drive. Members are asked to bring in a nonperishable food item. Various can goods, pasta, rice are all excellent items to donate to this program.

Donations are delivered once a month to the local food pantry. Anybody can afford a buck or two to help the less fortunate.

On average we get about 45 to 50 people at each business meeting. If every member in attendance pitched in just one item to this worthy cause we would have quite a donation for the month.”

Hamming It Up To A Fare Thee Well!

Dan O’Welch Easter is right around the corner. That means our annual Springtime Trap Range Ham Shoot is even closer on the calendar.

This year’s shoot is scheduled for Sunday, April 1st, 2012. As usual the shoot will begin at 9 AM. This will be a lucky bird format. All scatter-gunners are urged to come to the range and give this popular event a try. For details please call Dan Welch at 508. 274.8262.

Progress is steady on the plinking range. We’re not done here yet but we are getting there!!

Trap Range

Bob O’Bates All members are reminded that Trap is shooting Saturday Mornings at 10 AM, Sunday Mornings at 9 AM as well as Friday afternoons at 12 noon. The cost to shoot is a mere $3.00 per round of 25 clay targets. Non members will pay just a dollar more! Our trap range is open to all whether you are a novice, a rookie, an expert or an ATA superstar. Everyone is welcome so come on down and join us for some shooting fun!

Archery Department

Al O’Savage March is here! That means the club’s 3D program continues to be in full swing on the third Sunday of both March and April of 2012. All archers looking to hone their skills are reminded to place the dates March 18th and April 15th, 2012 on their calendars. Each of these remaining two shoots will begin at 7 AM and breakfast will be available.

The club Archery Committee wishes to remind everyone they are still shooting on the club’s indoor archery range each Wednesday Evening at 7:30 PM. Anyone with a compound bow, reverse curve or long bow is welcome. To all who have crossbows, please feel free to bring them along as well. For additional details please see Al Savage at any club meeting.

NRA Training

Peter O’Donovan This month’s scheduled NRA Home Firearms Safety Course will be held Tuesday, March 20th, 2012 at 7 PM. Anyone interested in ascertaining his or her firearms identification card (F.I.D.) or license to carry (L.T.C.) is encouraged to attend this invaluable course. Space is limited so reservations are recommended.

Please contact Peter Donovan or George Baggitt at any club meeting. Last month our club hosted nine students.

Membership

You want fries with that order? The weather for the January 3D Shoot was both cold and snowy. While the archery participation was less than expected club associate Zack Savage drew a crowd of his own near the pond by launching a few spuds about 200 yards with his Potato Gun.

March 2012

George O’Baggitt All members are reminded that a current member must sponsor new applicants. All applicants and sponsors must be interviewed for membership.

After submitting an application, all perspective new members will be contacted to schedule the interview. Anyone with a membership question is urged to The

c o n t a c t G e o r g e Baggitt at any club meeting.

Plinking Range

Many hands do lessen the work as several club members above get together on the past few Sundays to assemble the backstop on the plinking range. Below Alan Savage, Howie Bearse, and George Baggitt hard at work on the plinking range.

Photo by Jill Savage

Howie O’Bearse Progress is steady on the plinking range.

Recent enhancements have been a revised range roof as well as work on the berms.

Members can also expect this range to celebrate a grand opening at some point later this year.

New Member Workhours

Jim O’Gillespie While we are on the topic of new membership. Please be advised that all new members who come into our organization during the 20122013 membership period are reminded that you are responsible to fulfill your obligatory commitment of four workhours. Failure to do so will result in a $50 assessment for the following year's dues.

Indoor Range

Jim O’Gillespie A great deal of progress has been made on the indoor range this past month. The backstop of the indoor range has been fully assembled. Further indoor range components, i.e. shooting benches, target hangers and other projects are to be scheduled and are in the works. Members can hopefully expect this range to celebrate a grand opening at some point latter this year.

Clubhouse Improvements

Sean O’ Baggitt On Sunday, February 5th a number of our club members got together to thoroughly clean and strip the clubhouse floor and gave it a fresh coat of light gray paint.

Outdoor Message

This immediately brightened up our club lodge, as the interior has been getting a bit shabby even by our standards. Thank yous go out to club Board of Director members George Baggitt, Mike London and Peter Donovan. Further thank yous go out to club members Jack Martin and Don Davern. It is good to see regular members helping with club projects. Too often we see only Board Members and Club Officers pitching in to complete projects.

More member involvement is needed.

From our Mail Bag Department

From Kim Tolley: “If letter A is a success in life, then letter A equals letter X plus letter Y plus letter Z. Work is letter X, letter Y is play and letter Z is keeping your mouth shut.”

From Peter Donovan: “Senators should wear uniforms just like the NASCAR drivers. That way we could identify their corporate sponsors.”

From Bates: “Some people are like a toy ‘Slinky’, not really good for anything but they bring a smile to your face when they are pushed down the stairs.”

Until next month………..Bob P. ★

GUNS AMMO ANTIQUE WEAPONS RELOADING EQUIPMENT ARCHERY SUPPLIES

The Powderhorn

210 BARNSTABLE ROAD HYANNIS, MASS. 02601 508-775-8975 HOURS: Mon- Fri 9 am to 5 pm Sat 9 am to 5 pm Page 19

GUN OWNERS' ACTION LEAGUE

Mail: PO Box 567 - Northborough, MA 01532 Location: 37 Pierce Street - Northborough, MA

Phone: 508-393-5333 E-mail: staff@goal.org

Fax: 508-393-5222 Web Page: www.goal.org

DIRECTORS: OFFIC ERS: Jay Beard (Hubbardston) Ron Knoll, President STAFF: John Beaumont (New Bedford) Lynne Roberts, First Vice President Jim Wallace, Executive Director Mark Clerici (Bellingham) David E. Tetzloff, Second Vice President Jon Green, Director of Education & Training Mike Donnelly (Fitchburg) Judy Candage, Treasurer Angela Fisher, Legislative Assistant Don Kusser (Quincy) Nancy Snow , Secretary Tara McGrath, Director of Member Services & Club Relations Dave LaRosa (Yarmouth) John Durkin, Jr., Past President

GOAL & The GOAL Foundation Around the State

Letter to GOAL Members

Below are events GOAL and The GOAL Foundation will be hosting or attending this month. Watch for The GOAL Foundation van on the road in your town!

Mar 2-4 - NRA Basic Pistol & Home Firearm Safety Instructor Course at GOAL headquarters. Call the office at 508-393-5333 to register.

Mar 6 - Basic Pistol Course at GOAL headquarters. Call the office at 508-393-5333 to register.

Mar 8 - Gun Laws for Citizens course at The GOAL Foundation headquarters. Call the office at 508-393-5333 to register.

Mar 14-15 - NRA Reloading Metallic Cartridge Case course at GOAL headquarters. Call the office at 508-393-5333 to register.

Mar 27 - Powerpoint for Trainers at GOAL headquarters. Call the office at 508-393-5333 to register.

GOAL Gets New Phone System As you may be aware, GOAL experienced problems with our phone system over the past few weeks. A new phone system has been installed and the staff has new extensions.

Angela Fisher, Assistant to the

Executive Director – Ext. 20 Jon Green, Director of Education and Training – Ext. 21 Tara McGrath, Director of Membership Services and Class Registration – Ext. 22 ★

Please contact your State Representatives and the members of the Joint Committee on the Judiciary to express your support of GOAL's S.661 "An Act Relative to Common Defense", which would: • provide explicit protection for those who use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves or others from great personal injury or death; • provide specific language that would clearly define what an act of lawful defense is; • protect a law abiding citizen who is involved in a self defense shooting from

civil suits.

Urge the members of the committee to vote favorably on S.661.

Senate Information State House Room 405 Boston, MA 02133 Tel:(617) 722-1639 House Information State House Room 136 Boston, MA 02133 Tel:(617) 722-2396 Please also contact your own legislators by calling 617-727-3676. ★

Have You Made Your Calls?

Gun Owners’ Action League: The Official State Association for the NRA in Massachusetts

As citizens of the United States of America, we are guaranteed a number cond h e S e 6 Y ea r s t g of freedoms by our Constitution. One of in D e f e n d t f o r o ver 3 the greatest of these is the right of me n Am e n d individuals to own and use firearms, if they so choose.

Gun Owners' Action League was formed in 1974. GOAL is the only Massachusetts organization working full time to safeguard your right to keep and bear arms. Since 1975, over 50 pro-gun bills filed by GOAL have been signed into law.

Our office is located in the central part of the state and is open Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm. If you want to belong to a real gun owner's ACTION organization, send us your membership application and check today.

Gun Owners’ Action League

PO Box 567, Northborough, MA 01532 (508)393-5333

Dear Fellow GOAL Members, During the last year, the officers of Gun Owners’ Action League have set out to modify the business and bring it in compliance with current business practices. We have learned a tremendous amount regarding the IRS guidelines for non-profit corporations, and how they have changed since GOAL and The GOAL Foundation were formed.

In the past, the IRS actually liked the idea of linked corporations. Having overlapping corporations with common directors and officers, such as GOAL’s relationship with The Outdoor Message Cooperative, was actually encouraged. That is no longer the case. The IRS guidelines now require the entities to operate independently to discourage the possibility of a conflict of interest. The changes we now must make affect employees, directors and bylaws.

We know there has been a lot of confusion about printing our news in The Outdoor Message. At the present time, GOAL members have two options: • GOAL’s standard practice is to send our members a printed version of the news.

• Members who do not enjoy a printed paper may choose to ask the staff to mark them as a “no-pub.” Choosing this option, does not affect receipt of the annual mailing or ballot in any way. The current savings to GOAL would be 51¢ per month if you choose not to receive the publication.

We are pleased to announce that an electronic version of The Outdoor Message will be available soon (our target date is April 1, 2012).

As we continue to re-structure our organization, rest assured that our goals have not changed. We will continue to support, and fight to protect, the right to keep and bear arms for lawful purposes.

We appreciate your patience and support with our growing pains.

Respectfully, The Officers of Gun Owners’ Action League ★

The "Big Bang 10" Annual Raffle!

Each year, we ask all GOAL members to participate in our Annual Raffle. The funds this raffle generates are greatly needed to continue to fight for the rights of Massachusetts gun owners. This Annual Raffle is our primary fund raising event for the year and is vitally necessary to our continued success.

This year, our annual raffle is featuring some big bore prizes, that will surely be a big hit!

Prizes: ❶ Armalite .308 AR15 Rifle ❷ Savage 10FCP HCS PRECISION .308 Rifle ❸ Smith & Wesson 500 .50 Revolver

❹ Ruger Alaskan .375 Rifle ❺ Auto Ordnance M1 Carbine .30 Rifle ➏ Smith & Wesson Governor .410 Revolver ❼ Smith & Wesson Bodyguard .38 Special +P Revolver ❽ Ruger GP100 .357 Revolver ➒ Mossberg 500 Tactical 12 ga Shotgun ❿ Smith & Wesson MP15-22 Rifle Tickets are available at our office, online at www.goal.org or by phone at 508-393-5333. Please note, due to postal regulations we are unable to send any part of a raffle ticket through the mail. ★

Many of you that follow us on our social media networks know that we've been running a daily count of the number of days that Governor Deval Patrick has ignored and/or refused to meet with GOAL Executive Director Jim Wallace.

Friday February 3, 2012 was day 1856 on the "Governor Patrick Appointment Wait".

Earlier that week, while Jim was at the State House he had a couple of people ask "Hey Jim, what's up with the Deval watch?" Apparently they had been on a popular Boston news website which has a weekly online live Q&A with the Governor. During the questioning some of our members got online and asked, "Why are you refusing to meet with GOAL?" His answer was surprising, even to us. He lied. He also dodged the answer, and reported that we frequently meet with Mary Elizabeth Heffernan, the Secretary of the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security. This is simply not true.

Frankly we expect more from a Governor. Especially in a state with such poorly written and confusing laws on the books which infringe upon the rights of so many.

We will continue to press on, urging the Governor to meet with us. If you see a chance, ask him to "meet with GOAL". In the meantime, we'll keep the count running. ★

The Governor Patrick Appointment Wait

❐ NEW MEMBER ❐ RENEWAL

Last Name

First Name

Mailing Address

City

State

Home Phone

Work Phone

Email Address

Individual Memberships 1 year ❒ $ 30.00 3 years ❒ 75.00 5 years ❒ 125.00

Family Memberships * 1 year ❒ $ 35.00 3 years ❒ 95.00 5 years ❒ 150.00

Middle Initial

Zip

Junior Membership (Under 21) 1 year ❒ $ 15.00 List birthdate _________

*Please list additional family member names: _________________________________ Enclosed is my ❒ Cash ❒ Check ❒ Money Order OR Bill my ❒ MasterCard ❒ Visa ❒ American Express ❒ Discover

For Office Use # ____ Laminate ____ Family ____ Card

Life Memberships** Sustaining ❒ $ 750.00 Benefactor ❒ 1500.00 Patron ❒ 3000.00 **Contact the GOAL office for payment schedule.

Card # ________________________________ Exp. Date _________ Signature _________________________ 3/12 Sponsor:

Page 20

Member Number (if known): The

Pete McBride (Pittsfield) Wendy Parsons (Brimfield) Chris Siano (Bolton) John Sklenak (Sudbury) Harry Vandoloski (Hadley) Gary Wilk (Pittsfield)

Outdoor Message

March 2012

2012 Annual Meeting/Banquet All current GOAL members will be receiving in the mail, information about GOAL’s Annual Meeting and Banquet.

This year both events will be held on Saturday, April 21, 2012 and will take place at Emerald Hall, 120 Bay State

Drive in Braintree, MA. The Annual Meeting, which is open to GOAL members only, will begin at 3 pm.

There is no fee to attend the meeting.

Please bring your valid membership card, as only current GOAL members will be

As happens every Spring, GOAL will be holding its annual election for Directors at Large. The Nominating Committee has gathered information from interested candidates and ballots and biographies have been printed for distribution.

Candidate biographies are printed below.

As this issue went to press, ballots were going in the mail to those members who are eligible to vote. GOAL members

eligible to vote for Board of Directors must have been a paid up member for 3 or more consecutive years. All Life, Sustaining, Benefactor and Patron members are also eligible to vote.

Ballots must be returned to the GOAL office at 37 Pierce Street in Northboro MA by 5 PM on April 10, 2012 to be counted.

GOAL Election of Board of Directors

Michael Anthony, Ipswich New Candidate Michael Anthony holds an MBA from Boston University and a BSME from Wentworth Institute of Technology. He is executive Vice President of Cambridge Semantics Incorporated, a semantic web software company. Prior to Cambridge, he spent 20 years building the high-tech consulting firm PRTM where he helped open an office in Europe and Asia and co-authored two books on high technology new product development and strategy. Michael is the current Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Wentworth Institute of Technology, Vice President of the non-profit Blue Wave Taekwondo Association, and a board member at Minelight Solutions- an innovation services start up. He also serves as a patrolman with the Melrose, MA auxiliary police department. Finally, Michael is a 7th degree black belt in taekwondo certified by the World Taekwondo Association and a certified Personal Defense Readiness (PDR) instructor with the Blauer Tactical SPEAR system. Michael holds an unrestricted LTC A, is an NRA Life Member and a Massachusetts State Police Certified Firearms Instructor. He has taken several GOAL courses including the Firearms Safety Instructor Course as well as courses from other academies. Michael serves as an IDPA Safety Officer and is active in the Worcester Pistol and Rifle Club IDPA chapter, and competes as a Sharpshooter level shooter. He is also a member of the Massachusetts Rifle Association.

Jay Beard, Hubbardston Candidate for re-election I am a lifelong resident of central MA and active in the shooting sports and hunting. My grandfather instilled a love and respect for the outdoors in me at a young age and I am dedicated to supporting and preserving our wildlife areas and our Second Amendment protected rights. I am an auctioneer and President of Simond & Oakes Auctioneers & Appraisers. I am a member of NRA and Duck Unlimited and I hold an unrestricted LTC. I am proud of my record as an auctioneer in raising millions of dollars for hunting, fishing and open spaces. I have conducted over 800 auctions in 35 years for GOAL, NRA, DU and others. I am concerned about government's constant assault on our rights and am dedicated to using my skills as an auctioneer to protect those rights and our conservation and hunting areas. I am happy and proud to work with GOAL’s Executive Director to raise funds for conservation and to protect our Second Amendment on Beacon Hill. I am especially proud to have brought together GOAL and the Light Foundation, a foundation founded by Matt Light of the New England Patriots. Matt Light has helped with GOAL's fundraising and getting our name and message out at the Celebrity Shoot-out held each year with over 1000 participants. GOAL is facing new challenges as technology moves life along at a faster pace and people can get and want information quickly if not instantly.

I think this is a good and necessary process and want to help GOAL move forward. I ask to maintain my seat and I look forward to the new voices that will come on the GOAL Board to help guide GOAL. I would like to raise more money for GOAL and with your support I will do that; and with your vote and voices, I believe GOAL can be a role model as ‘the’ Massachusetts state association setting the pace in protecting and promoting our shooting and hunting heritage and facing the challenges of a fast paced digital and technological age.

Joseph Currie, Dracut New Candidate Lives in Dracut, has been a lifelong MA resident and gun owner since his father, a Boston Police Officer, introduced him to the sport at an early age. Joseph is employed as an Electrical Construction Manager for Lumus Construction, Inc. in Wilmington. Joseph is a GOAL sustaining member and NRA life member, involved in shooting his entire life; GBPL gallery, IDPA, trap, hunting, IHMSA, member of Pelham F&G. Joseph has carried on the family legacy by introducing his 5 children (1 boy, 4 girls) to shooting sports.

Joseph is active on the Northeastshooters.com forum under the user name of Palladin and is a candidate for both the National Society, the Sons of the American Revolution, (NSSAR) and Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW). He believes that the right to keep and bear arms in Massachusetts is severely hampered by the current legislators and will do all he can to ensure that GOAL is successful in its restoration in MA. He will bring to the board a fresh perspective, focused on the modern shooting sports tradition, equally welcoming the traditional hunter, as well as the IDPA competitor, the militeria collector and casual firearms owner, concentrating on their fundamental human and constitutional right to self-defense.

Michael Donnelly, Fitchburg Candidate for re-election “I was a hunter at 8 years old with a lemon wood Indian longbow and chipmunks were my quarry. My hunting partners and I set a daily limit for chipmunks, making us quite probably the first and youngest conservationists on North Street.” I am a law-abiding citizen like yourself, who believes in the right to own firearms for any lawful purpose. I have lived in Fitchburg for 35 years and play an active role in government as a member of the Fitchburg Conservation Commission. I am the Founder and President of the Fitchburg Conservation Land Trust. I have taught at Groton Dunstable Regional High School for 30 years. As a former Hunter Education and Waterfowl Identification Instructor I have provided my students instruction in hunter ethics and the safe use of firearms, and facilitated GOAL instruction on firearm safety. I am a member of the North Leominster Rod & Gun Club and the Westford Sportsmen’s Club. Over the past two years I have served as the State Chairman of Ducks Unlimited for Massachusetts. I am a Life Sponsor of Ducks Unlimited, and a Nashua River Chapter Banquet Committee volunteer for 20 years. I am a proud Life Member of the National Rifle Association and Gun Owners’ Action League, and currently serve on the Board of Directors. I am a registered Republican. “I am a rabid waterfowl hunter. My passion to hunt waterfowl is predicated on the right to own and use firearms. My commitment to exercise that right is unwavering.”

March 2012

The

admitted. Please RSVP by email to blckpwdr@yahoo.com if you plan to attend the Meeting.

Whether you plan to attend the Meeting or not, please be sure to reserve your seat for this year’s Annual Banquet!

Doors will open at 6 pm for this event, at which Officers, Board of Directors, staff, members and guests will share a meal, some conversation and an opportunity to show their support of GOAL through fundraising activities. The meal will be served family style and will feature both roast beef and chicken entrees.

If you have any questions about the event please email Banquet Coordinator

Don Kusser at blckpwdr@yahoo.com.

Don, a current Director at Large, offered to handle all the details of the Banquet this year, in order to alleviate the burden on staff.

Banquet tickets are $35 each. You can order banquet tickets online at www.goal.org or send a check, made payable to GOAL, to Don Kusser, 173 Edgewater Drive, Quincy, MA 02169. If you have a product or service you would like to donate for fundraising efforts, Don would be happy to hear from you. Please email him at blckpwdr@yahoo.com.

Thank you for your support! ★

Jim Finnerty, W. Groton New Candidate Jim is a life-long Massachusetts resident, and has been involved in the shooting sports for over 30 years. He is currently the Reloading Instructor for The GOAL Foundation, runs reloading classes at local gun shops and clubs, and is a certified Basic Pistol and Home Firearms Safety Instructor. Jim is an avid shooter and sportsman, and is Vice President of the Shirley Rod and Gun Club, as well as a member of the Harvard Sportsmen’s Club.

He is also very active in petitioning his elected officials for positive changes in gun law.

For the last 30 years, Jim has worked in engineering and marketing for a Massachusettsbased manufacturing company.

Don Kusser, Quincy Candidate for re-election A Board member since 1986, I have served as Chairman of the Membership Committee for 26 years. As an avid 2nd Amendment supporter, I have spent more than a dozen years helping people in Carver and other communities take back their rights. I have worked many weekends at the GOAL table at gun shows. I host a show for Quincy Access Cable entitled “The Constitution: Then and Now,” which also airs in New York City. I have also worked hard for many years in Quincy: thanks to us, a former Chief of Police who abused his power at the expense of 2nd Amendment supporters has been removed. Also, I have worked hard for many years in Boston with a group of Ministers, who now support our 2nd Amendment rights, and have joined GOAL. I am an avid blackpowder shooter, an officer of the Braintree Rifle and Pistol Club. I hope that you will give me one of your votes this year.

Dr. Steve Moysey, Charlton New Candidate Dr. Steve Moysey holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering, an MS in Management from Tufts University and a Doctorate in Psychology, with a focus on conflict and crisis negotiation, also from Tufts. Steve was an adjunct faculty member at the graduate school at Tufts University for several years where he taught subjects that included Leadership and Organizational Psychology. Due to his on-going research, writing and documentaries on hostage standoff situations and trends in international terrorism, Dr. Moysey’s work has become a standard reference work for many conflict and crisis training programs in the USA and around the world. Dr. Moysey works with law enforcement and intelligence agencies in the UK and USA on issues surrounding counter terrorism, counter intelligence and hostage/barricade situation. Dr. Moysey, holder of an unrestricted LTC A, is an NRA and Massachusetts State Police Certified Instructor. Steve teaches at The GOAL Foundation as an adjunct instructor for Basic Pistol, various introductory and advance shooting sports courses. Steve serves as an IDPA Safety Officer Trainer for the National Governing Body of the International Defensive Pistol Association. He is also a Co-Chairman for the Worcester Pistol and Rifle Club IDPA chapter, and competes as a Master level shooter.

Wendy Parsons, Brimfield Candidate for re-election My name is Wendy Parsons. I live in Brimfield and belong to the Nenameseck Sportsmen's Club in Ware Ma and the Chelsea Fish and Game Club in Chelsea, VT. My love for the Second Amendment comes from my father. He was an NRA instructor and life member. He raised me to respect and support an individual’s right to keep and bear arms. As members of local and out of state sportsmen’s clubs, my husband and I want to pass this passion on to our girls. I am proud to have served as an interrogator linguist in the Army where I met my husband. I currently work as the office manager at a plumbing and pipefitting union. Prior to my current position, I worked as a paralegal for a state agency and in the public and private sector as an office manager. I have had the honor of serving on the Board of Directors and bringing my paralegal skills to my work on the Board’s Personnel and Legal Assistance Committees. The laws governing nonprofits and personnel practices have changed recently and presented challenges to meet in order to keep GOAL in compliance and up-to-date. I would appreciate your vote so that I may continue to work with my fellow board members in building and growing GOAL and defending our Second Amendment rights. ★

GOAL Thanks Donors GOAL publishes our general membership Thank You’s in The Outdoor Message each month instead of spending funds on thank you cards and postage. The donations listed below were received as of 2/7/2012. If you sent a donation prior to that date and do not see your name listed, please call the GOAL office.

General Fund – Thanks!

R. Spurr, M. Brady, R. Pydynkowski, M. Loftin, J. Maddaleni, D. Stevens, D. Ellard, M. Westover, L. Mazza, R. Lacroix, F. Thomas, J. DiLorenzo, J. Sinagra, B. Crispim, H. Jones, N. Cedarstrom, C. Scott, K. Drolette, M. Coelho, J. Crowley, J. Cassella, A. Quintin, R. Campana, A. Fowler, G. Pimental, Jr., P. Ambers, E. Ayers, B. Carr, W. Towlson, W. Larner, R. Baker and V. Volpicelli.

We would like to thank the following Sustainer, Benefactor and Patron Life Members for their generous donations to GOAL’s General Fund in support of our legislative and public information programs.

D. Brown, D. MacEachern, E. Foley, A. Swift, W. McLaughlin and J. DeDominicis.

Outdoor Message

Page 21

WORCESTER PISTOL & RIFLE CLUB

P.O. Box 771

Sewall Street

508-869-3148 ✦

✦

Boylston, MA 01505

www.WPRclub.com ✦

Meetings are held the first Thursday of each month. Next meeting March 1, 2012 at 7 pm.

February 2, 2012 General Meeting was called to order 7:00 by President, Al Bonofiglio.

Secretary

– Pat Cavallaro The E-Board minutes for January were presented.

A letter of appreciation was received from the Boylston Police Department and the Otter River Sportsman's Club thanking WPRC for the donations.

Membership

– Brian Frappier Club membership is 624 members; 43 Life, 576 Regular, juniors, 2 Honorary.

As of midnight tonight it looks like 74 members will be dropped from the Membership rolls for failure to renew their 2012 Membership. As soon as l have time I will mail them the ''Dear Former Member” letter explaining their options.

On January 26th the Club had its first scheduled Orientation Meeting for 2012. I notified 80 people of this Meeting and we had 66 applicants show up for the Orientation. We have 53 Applicants here tonight to be voted on for Membership into the Club from that Orientation Meeting and a previous Orientation.

I want to thank my wife Donna, Lee Whitney, Ed McNiff and John Gabriel for their help with the pre-registration paperwork and Orientation. Thanks to Mike Burchman, Tom LaRoche, John Hinson and Mike Henry who guided 63 cars into parking spaces. Mike also gave an excellent presentation of the two drawings.

Bill Hardell was also present and helped out with the Orientation.

The next scheduled Orientation Meeting will be on Thursday, August 30, 2012 with registration starting at 7:00 PM and the Meeting starting at 7:30 PM. The Applicants here to be voted on are: John Bartku, Thaddeus Bauer, James Bollivar, Graeme Boyle, Stuart Burdsall, Henry Cervantes, Shawn Clayton, Danielle Colonair, David Daike, Jay D'Andrea Jr., Teyon Daye, Mark Dombroski, Robet Dube, Christopher Faticanti, Alan Finkel, Martin Finn, Colby Fiske, Todd Fitzmaurice, William Ford, Robert Galloni, Konstantinos Giannakis, Karoline Gildemeister, Richard Greenhalgh, Christopher Grenier, Russell Haims, Lorand Jorgji, Jorhan Jurado, Nicole Lapomardo, Warren Lohnes Jr., John Matraia, William McKenzie, Michael McLaughlin, Scott Moberg, Michael Montaruli, Peter Morris, Eric Mueller, Mark Nader, Paul Nader, Benjamin Nutter, Paul Poirier, Ziad Ramadan, Christopher Robertson, Michael Scully, Christopher Stowe, Robed Svensson Jr., Daniel Szklarz, Matthew Tremblay, Gregory Voykansky, Matthew Ward, Randy Weissman, Timothy Wells, Eric Whitney and Kevin Williamson.

Executive Officer Report

– Bill Hardell Calendar Events. The 2012 calendar is now on line and posted. Please remember to check the on-line version and the one posted here at the club for updates and additions. March schedule: • Pistol Team: Every Monday at 1830, IR & MR • IDPA Practice on 03/04/12 at 1700 • GOAL NRA Instructor Course: Sunday 03/04/12 at 0800 (IR & MR) • GOAL NRA Basic Pistol: Tuesday 03/06/12 at 1300 (Indoor or Outdoor Range) • IDPA Match on 03/10/12 at 0800 • Work Party 03/11/12 at 0800 • RSO Course: 03/17/12 and 03/18/12 at 0900 (MR & IR) • Pin Shoots 03/25/12: 1200 Set-Up, 1230 Registration, 1245 Safety Brief (Outdoor Pistol) • HFS 03/25/12 at 0800 Please remember to contact me for any additions or deletions to the calendar. You can use the link from the club web site under the “Club Officers” tab. Any additions/corrections need to be made two weeks out so we can get them posted online.

Indoor/Outdoor Ranges

Mike Henry: Routine Maintenance Continues.

Please remember to use the dud bucket on the indoor range. Try to remember to put duds only in the dud bucket. Expended brass goes in the brass buckets.

GOAL Club Seminar

As reported last month, GOAL hosted a Club Representative Seminar on Sunday 12/13/11. Bill Hardell attended for the club. He is in the process of finalizing his report for the membership and will have an updated report next month.

Range Renovation Notice

As you can see here at the club, we are clearing out the facility in preparation for the club renovation in March. If there is an item that you specifically want to salvage (wall-locker, storage cabinet etc.), please contact Bill Hardell. After 03/31/12, the renovation will begin and the club will be stripped out to the bare walls. If we don’t know that you want to salvage a particular item, it will be gone after the 31st.

GOAL Report

Bill Hardell reported for Jon Green, who is traveling this week.

There is a GOAL alert out for all members in regard to S.661 “An Act Relative to the Common Defense". This piece of legislation will provide the following:

SPARKY’S GUN SHOP www.sparkys45.com

e-mail: sparkys45@aol.com Page 22

The

• explicit protection for those who use force, including deadly force, to protect themselves or others from great personal injury or death; • specific language that would clearly define what an act of lawful defense is; • protect a law abiding citizen who is involved in a self defense shooting from civil suits On January 23rd 2012, GOAL posted an alert for all members about a Public Hearing at 1300 on Tuesday, 02/07/12.

GOAL asked all members to please support this important legislation by contacting your legislators and the committee members. Please go to the GOAL web site at GOAL.org for contact information for your Representative and Senator.

Jon asked that all club members continue to monitor the GOAL website for updates on legislation and training.

Website

If anyone has checked the web site lately, you will see a notification that our registration has expired. We will resolve this issue shortly. (Follow up: The website is up and operational at this time.)

Worcester County League

Dave Morin reported on the last meeting and provided copies of the latest edition of the league newsletter the “Sportsmen’s News”.

The League is looking for 100-150 square feet of storage space. Please contact Dave if you know of a place.

The League would like to develop a website and is looking for someone to help with the project.

Licensing is now online. Lead sinkers under 1 ounce are now banned.

The Annual Banquet is April 28th at the Wachusett Country Club in West Boylston. Tickets are $35.00 each. A table of eight is $245.00. Two shotguns will be raffled off that night.

The League is still accepting donations for the Otter River Rebuilding Fund.

Treasurer

Mike Swett provided the treasurers’ report. The report was read into the record and accepted by the membership.

Worcester Pistol Team

Dave Brown reported the Worcester Team is doing well – WPRC is 4 wins ahead.

Newsletter

Mary Malesky asked that all notes be submitted before the tenth of the month.

IDPA

– Pete Saniuk Our 2012 IDPA season kicked off with John Cunningham as Match Director. A mild and sunny 50º day brought out the shooters, 67 of them, for a challenge filled day of competition. This was a great way to start off our season. Many thanks to the set up crew and safety officers who donated their time and effort for another successful match. Cleanup was complete at 3:00 pm and the range was turned over to the membership.

With the renovation of the clubhouse scheduled to begin in April, the matches will be reduced to 5 stages from our usual

Outdoor Message

GOAL 100 Club Member

6 and practices will be on the outdoor pistol range instead of inside. We also anticipate overflow parking on the WPRC side of the street.

Raffles

- Mike Burchman Thank you to all the club members who support the club by purchasing monthly and President’s raffle tickets.

Old Business

John Hinson will run an NRA certified Range Safety Officer Course on March 17 and 18. Club members, who are also NRA members, pay $26.00; non-NRA members pay $36.00. Please contact John at 508-752-1585. There is a maximum of 10 available seats for this class.

New Business

Tom LaRoche has located a tentative meeting place in Boylston. The Town House, 599 Main Street (Route 70) left side of the road. The meeting will be held upstairs.

Safety Officer's Report

Range Safety Officer Course: March 17 – 18, 2012: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Please check your tires before leaving the range for loose brass.

Building Committee

– Bob Micket/Al Bonofiglio Al stated that the committee would be meeting with city officials, building contractors and demolition contractors later this month.

Next Meeting

The next General meeting is on Thursday, 03/01/2012 at 7:00 pm A motion to adjourn was made at 7:30 pm.

Construction Project

With our upcoming construction project, we will be looking to contract the following tradespersons: demo, masonry, framing, plumbing, electrical, hvac, accoustical ceiling, finish carpentry, plaster, painting, finish flooring, insulation, welders. Club members will have priority. Demolition to start Spring, 2012.

Please contact Bob at rjmicket@msn.com.

CORRECTION -

In our January newsletter, we listed the following: Lead sinkers under 1 gram are now banned.

Here is the CORRECT information: January 1, 2012 -- The use of any lead fishing sinkers and lead jigs weighing less than 1 ounce is now prohibited in all inland waters (fresh water) of the Commonwealth.

In terms of this regulation, "lead sinker" or "lead weight" is defined as any sinker or weight made from lead that weighs less than 1 ounce. A "lead jig" is defined as any lead-weighted hook weighing less than 1 ounce. Prohibited tackle includes lead sinkers and jigs weighing less than an ounce which are painted, coated with rubber or some other substance or covered by attached "skirts".

Please go to <http://www.Mass.Gov/ MassWildLife> website, then search for: "JIG BAN" to get more information. ★ March 2012

SOUTHBOROUGH ROD & GUN CLUB

Calendar of Events

s Every Sunday - Trap/Skeet/ from 1 – 4 PM on the hill s Every Wednesday – Pistol League s Basic Hunter Ed class –Tues/Thurs.

March 6,8,13,15,22,27 – 6:30-9:30PM March: Thurs, 1st Sat, 3rd

BOD meeting, 7:30 pm Jr. Rifle League Match at Harvard Mon, 5th NRA Marksmanship Group, 1– 6:30 PM Sun, 11th Rifle - 3-Gun Shoot, 10 AM Mon, 12th NRA Marksmanship Group 2– 6:30 PM Tues/Thurs, 13th-14th SOBO Police – Outdoor Range Closed 9 AM – 4 PM Sun, 18th Trap – 105 Shoot, 10 AM Sun, 18th Trap – Doubles – 1 PM Mon, 19th NRA Marksmanship Fun Shoot 6:30 PM Tues, 20th Regular Monthly Meeting7:30 PM (Supper at 6 PM) Sat, 24th NRA Basic Pistol Course – 8 AM – 6 PM Sun, 25th Pistol – CF Bowling Pin, 10 AM Sat, 31st Jr. Trap Orientation & Practice, 9 AM Sat, 31st Archery – 3D Setup, 1 PM

Club Location: 254 Fruit Street, Hopkinton MA Mailing Address: PO Box 91, Southborough MA 01772-0091 www.srgclub.com 508-435-3736 session. Team members will have the opportunity to compete in ATA registered events both at SRGC and at other area clubs. Look for registration forms on our website www.srgclub.com. There will be a nominal cost to participate (TBD) and loaner shotguns will be available as well as discount targets and ammunition (SRGC is a “STEEL ONLY” venue).

For further information, please contact Tim Carey (jmk@kirkeastern.com), Mike Pearson (jmpearson@rcn.com) or Mark Monique (mmonique@savogran.com).

We look forward to seeing you at the top of the hill!

Junior Rifle

- Mark Monique The juniors continue to practice regularly on Monday evenings. Congratulations to the following juniors who improved their skill rating during the month of January: Abby Monique, Sharpshooter, 9th bar Kaleigh Carey, Sharpshooter, 9th bar John Renzoni, Sharpshooter, 4th bar Sophie Waterfall, Marksman Keehn Waterfall, Marksman Brett Lebow, Marksman

will also be closed for the mornings of Saturday, March 3rd and Saturday, March 17th for a couple local Boy Scout Troops.

ALWAYS check our Calendar of Events (www.srgclub.com or pick up a paper copy at the Clubhouse) before heading off to the outdoor range.

Corned Beef Dinner

It's baaack! SR&G will be hosting a traditional Corned Beef Dinner on Sunday, March 18th (the day after St. Patrick's Day) starting at 4 PM. Tickets are $8 and are limited, so get them early. You can purchase them from Larry McCoskery, Paul Monique or Rick Chouinard.

Others at the Clubhouse may have them as well.

Volunteers Needed

2011 Officers/Directors

President Steve Chouinard 508-380-3563 Steve-Chouinard@hotmail.com Vice-President Dave Therrien 508-839-2981 dave.therrien@verizon.net Secretary Larry McCoskery 774-245-2805 larry.mccoskery@gmail.com Treasurer John Gerstenlauer 978-692-2653 johnmgerst@comcast.net Directors: Bob Andrews, Arthur Holmes, Mark Monique, Brian Smith, Dave Stewart and John Paras

2011 Committees

Archery: Bobby Andrews 508-934-9854 rhandrews@yahoo.com Building & Grounds: Paul Monique 508-881-3732 montysrg@verizon.net GOAL/Newsletter Editor: Mike Matteson 603-966-6709 WB5JMJ@AMSAT.ORG Ham Radio: Larry McCoskery 774-245-2805 larry.mccoskery@gmail.com Junior Rifle: Mark Monique 508-872-3872 mmonique@savogran.com; Brian Smith 508-9660045 bsappraisal@comcast.net Pistol: Jim Tomasetti 508-429-2664 j.tomasetti@verizon.net Primitive: Ray Pillie 508-877-5331 Public Relations: Tom Oertel 508-429-7614, 508-8789680 toertel@comcast.net Rifle: Steve Chouinard 508-380-3563 SteveChouinard@hotmail.com Skeet: Bob Valli 508-429-2183 defauser@yahoo.com Sporting Clays: Travis Powell travispowell@comcast.net Training: John Gerstenlauer 978-692-2653 johnmgerst@comcast.net Trap: Mike Pearson 508-879-9625 jmpearson@rcn.com Trout Pond: Dave Sawyer 508-341-7651 arborman60@yahoo.com Web Administrator: Mike Giovannucci 508-788-9923 mikeg@srgclub.com

It's that time of year when the local boy scout troops want to get outdoors and have some good, clean, SAFE fun. SR&G will be hosting several scout troops in March. Scout troops generally arrive Saturday morning and participate in .22 rifle shooting at the outdoor range and occasionally also shoot Trap at the top of the hill before settling into a camp-out - Steve Chouinard in the woods above the Trap Thank you to all the members fields for the evening. and guests who attended our I'm looking for volunteers at the and it was a great success. We had 14 Annual Venison Stew Dinner prior to the Annual Meeting held Pictured from left to right are Emily Gardner, outdoor rifle range to assist the scouts students which is a perfect size for maximum efficiency. A 14 student class while shooting .22 rifles and at the trap on January 17th. It was well Elizabeth Mumford and Kelsie Phaneuf. means 2 full squads on the range which field when shooting shotguns on attended with over 80 dinners Saturday, March 3rd and Saturday the works out perfectly. Thanks to instructors being served.

17th. Some experience is necessary, but Kris Briggs, Steve Chouinard and Thank you also to those members who - Steve Chouinard Domenic Padula; Range Coaches Greg it's mostly enthusiasm that I'm looking donated prizes for the Bucket Raffle and On Sunday, January 18th we kicked off for. Volunteers are asked to be at the Chvisuk, Mike Pearson and Russell others who showed up on the 14th to help our 2012 Rifle Committee Season with a Clubhouse at 8 AM to go through a Range Pearson; and our kitchen crew led by Paul Paul Monique and his crew prepare the Center-fire Benchrest competition. The Monique. We couldn’t be so successful Safety briefing. The scouts start shooting stew and clean up the Clubhouse. event was fairly well attended with 6 without such loyal volunteers. Our next at 9 AM and should be done by 2 PM, The 66th Annual Meeting was also members participating in the iron-sight Basic Pistol class will be on March 24. depending on the number of scouts. In held on January 17th. Reports from all the class and 5 in the scope class. Competitors Please tell your friends and family about addition to seeing the smiles on the young various committees for 2011 were shot 5 rounds at targets set at 100 yards, this great benefit offered by our club. scout’s faces, this is a great opportunity presented. The Club All-Around the winner being the one with the smallest We are also holding the NRA Refuse for members to earn a credit for their New Champion for 2011 (until June 10th) is grouping of their 5 shots.

To Be A Victim class on February 25.

Member Participation obligations. Please Jim Gonzalez and the Club Rifle Winner of the iron-sight class was Joe Please contact John Gerstenlauer for more contact steve-chouinard@hotmail.com if Champions are Joe Quinn (iron-sight Quinn with a 5-shot group of 1.341" information on either of these classes or you can help out in any way. class) and Chuck Ellis (scope class). (shooting an M1A in .308), just edging just visit the club website at Our 2011 Club Treasurer (John out his Better Half, Karina with a group of www.srgclub.com for more information.

Gerstenlauer) and Club Secretary (Larry 2.190". Winner of the scope class was Fliers for both classes, suitable for McCoskery) ran unopposed and will serve Chuck Ellis shooting an impressive group Sunday, April 1st will be the first 3-D sharing, are available there. for another year. Both have done a of 0.470" with his CZ chambered in .223. shoot of the year. About 20 targets will be GREAT job keeping the Club moving set up along our woods walk course at Our next rifle event will be a 3-Gun forward. We also held elections for three Shoot on Sunday, March 11th. Competitors distances between 15 and 35 yards. Break (3) Directors positions. Art Holmes was will use center-fire pistols for steel plates - Mike Pearson out the archery equipment you put away re-elected along with Bobby Andrews. set at 50', center-fire rifles at IDPA-style after hunting season and start tuning up. The warmer weather is coming, and, if the activity that we’ve seen over the Winter Bob Mumford ran as a nominee from the targets at 100 yards and shotguns (slugs) There will be a work party on Saturday, (such as it was), keeps pace….we’re floor and was the third to be elected. at steel poppers set at 50 yards. It is a March 31st at 1 PM to set up the targets. gonna be REAL busy! If you’re looking Thank you to Dave Stewart who served on timed event with bonus seconds deducted for a way to help the club, volunteer for the the Board the last 3 years. Thanks also to for rounds remaining and penalty seconds Trap Committee…one Sunday a month... all the Directors for helping make OUR added for targets still standing. The safety – John Gerstenlauer Remember, it’s your club! See you at the Club the success that it is. briefing and explanation of the course-ofThe Club held its first NRA Basic Pistol Top of the Hill…And Bring a Friend! ★ fire will be at 9:45 AM with the first shots class for the 2012 season on January 28 at 10. If you would like to participate but don't own all the toys... no problem.

– Tim Carey Keith G. Langer, Attorney at Law We will once again offer a Jr. Trap Someone will be happy to let you use one program this season, open to athletes ages of theirs. This event is open to all members 11-22. The program is designed to instill and guests. Contact steve-chouinard@ in participants safe firearms handling, hotmail.com with any questions.

Admitted in Massachusetts and Rhode Island commitment, responsibility, leadership Firearms licensing, administrative appeals and litigation. and teamwork.

Wills, trusts and family law issues promptly addressed.

We will meet at the trap house on The outdoor range will be closed from 9 Saturday mornings from 10 AM – Noon. AM to 4 PM on Tuesday, March 13th and FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION FOR GOAL MEMBERS The first meeting will be on Saturday, Wednesday, March 14th for qualifications 255 Harvard Lane, Wrentham, MA 02093-1069 March 31st at 9 AM for orientation to be by a local police department. The range Phone: 508-384-8692 Fax: 508-384-3547 followed immediately by our first practice

From The President

Rifle Committee

Archery

Trap

Training

Junior Trap

Outdoor Range

March 2012

The

Outdoor Message

Page 23

INDEPENDENT SPORTSMEN’S CLUB, INC.

Club Location: Mirimichi Road - Foxboro, MA 02035 Club Phone: 508-543-9887 Mailing Address: PO Box 902 - North Attleboro MA 02761

Meeting Times

Web address: www.independentclub.com Email address: independentsportsmensclub@gmail.com

Board Meeting: 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM. Membership Meeting: 1st Tuesday of March, June, September and December at 8:00 PM.

Orientation

New member orientation is held at 9 AM on the 4th Sunday of each month. All new members must attend a session in order to get a gate key. If you plan to attend, please call Vinny Tuzzo. 508-543-7029.

Range Times

Skeet, Trap: Wednesday 5-8 PM; Saturday & Sunday 1-4 PM. Open to the public.

5-Stand: Wednesday 5-8 PM; Saturday & Sunday 1-4 PM. Open to the public.

Sporting Clays: Saturday & Sunday 1 PM. Open to the public. Weather permitting.

Pistol & Rifle Ranges: Monday thru Saturday 9 AM to sunset. Sunday and Holidays 12 PM to sunset. Open to members. Limited guest visits.

Shotgun Sports News

Joe Coyne, 508-376-5749 coynej@gmail.com TRAP: Singles and doubles.

5 STAND: Occasionally, the field might not be open our normal 3 days/ week due to the lack of a volunteer scheduled to run it that day. So, ALWAYS check our website, under Latest News and

Calendars, to see if it’s open before driving over to shoot.

Winter League

A 12 week Winter league began on January 11th. 15 Shooters have been participating. This year’s winter league is alternating weeks of Skeet and Trap. This is another league where the final scores are based on your best 8 out of 12 weeks scores. So it’s not too late to join in and make ups are allowed.

Pistol & Rifle News

Please do not tack targets to the wooden crossbars on the pistol target frames.

There are usually a number of fairly large IPSC cardboard silhouettes in the rifle pavilion that can be attached to the wooden crossbars. Place your targets on the cardboard. Shooters are destroying the crossbars but more importantly, the missed shots are bordering on being too high on the range. Safety first!

Scheduled Shoots are open to the public. During scheduled shoots, ranges are CLOSED, until approximately 1 PM. Reminders: • 7:30 AM Setup; 8:30 AM Signup; 8:50 AM Shooters Meeting; 9:05 AM Start Time • NEW shooters are ALWAYS welcome! If a new shooter shows up at 8 AM, we would be happy to give them some personal instruction before the shoot begins.

• Ear protection and eye protection with side protection, is required.

G OA L N e e d s Yo u

to share the benefits of membership with a friend.

Use the application form on page 20 to enroll a friend today.

MIDDLEBORO GUN SHOP

For shoot information contact Paul Remick III, 508-384-4150.

SHOOT SCHEDULE (all on Saturdays): Mar 24th, Action PISTOL Shoot Apr 14th, 22 Rimfire "CHALLENGE" Shoot Apr 28th, Action PISTOL Shoot May 5th, Action RIFLE Shoot May 19th, Action PISTOL Shoot Jun 9th, Action SHOTGUN Shoot Jun 23rd, Action PISTOL Shoot Jul 14th, Action "3-GUN" Shoot Jul 28th, Action PISTOL Shoot Aug 4th, Action REVOLVER Shoot Aug 25th, Action PISTOL Shoot Sep 8th, 22 Rimfire Action RIFLE Shoot Sep 22nd, Action PISTOL Shoot Oct 13th, 22 Rimfire Action PISTOL Shoot Oct 20th, Black Powder Shoot Oct 27th, Action PISTOL Shoot Nov 3rd, Western 3-Gun Shoot (Cowboy) Nov 10th, Action PISTOL Shoot Dec 8th, Action PISTOL Shoot

Range Guests Reminder

Members are allowed to bring guests to the Rifle or Pistol Ranges for only 4 visits.

After that the guest is expected to apply for membership. This is a club by-law.

This does not apply if the guest is the member’s spouse or child under age 18.

3D Archery News

Mike Remillard 5080883-5947 mikeremillard@comcast.net Our collection of Rinehart targets is well on its way. As other targets get shot up, we will replace them with Rinehart. Shooting lanes have been changed by our 3D Archer and bow hunter, Joe Brown, along with our experienced crew of archers, hunters and workers. Twelve of our targets are downhill, tree stand type shots.

A novelty shoot is planned. Bob, Sue, Rosie and Rob are planning July’s menu.

Shoot dates: July 22, August 12. Please join us for these fun shoots.

Membership News

GUNS & AMMO

*** Knowledgeable Service With Personal Attention *** NEW l USED l BUY l ESTATES PURCHASED l TRADE-INS BLACK POWDER GUNS and ACCESSORIES l RELOADING SUPPLIES

508-947-5900

State NRA Certified Pistol Safety Courses

www.middleborogunshop.com

Welcome new members: Paul Belanger from Plainville, Gerald Smith from Attleboro, Andrew Harrington from Franklin, Don Brown from Norfolk and Jesse Brown from Norfolk.

Annual Member Dues

The deadline for renewing your club membership has passed. Please note that if you did not make a payment, your

194 East Grove Street (Rt 28) Middleboro MA 02346 HOURS: MON/TUES/FRI/SAT 9 - 5; THURS 9 - 7

GUNS WANTED

We Buy Guns - “Active Cash for Idle Guns”

membership expired and you are no longer allowed rifle/pistol range access or shotgun shooting fee discounts. Your gate fob was automatically deactivated on 1/15/2012. If you do care to renew, your fob will be reactivated within 3 days of our receipt of your payment. We hope to see you all on the 2012 roster.

Club Elections

The election of new club officers and directors occurs at the March 6th annual meeting. Each year the executive offices are up for election along with six of the twelve directors. Please consider supporting your club by running for a position. Note, By-Laws require that one be a member in good standing for 3 years in order to be eligible to run. If you are interested in running, please contact a board member or send an email to the club email address.

Web Site

Look under the “Latest News & Calendars” section for the latest news, announcements or schedule changes, including any announcements of range unavailability.

Sportsmen’s Yard Sale

Mike Remillard I’m going to need lots of sporting equipment & man town items for special shotgun shoots and all 3D Archery Shoots. The club could use the money generated from these donations.

Customers get great pleasure looking through these second hand items and their face lights up when they make a purchase.

Please donate.

From the Editor

Mike Remillard The club had its first 3D Archery event.

All was going fine until just before the event we got two small snow storms. The day of the event, the Patriots had a playoff game. I was told by many that although we didn’t get many archers, we are set-up for success with our new course and new menu from our Pelland Family of breakfast and lunch cooks. I’d like to thank all those who participated and helped in this event. Those who attended had fun.

Ed Bouchard is always getting assignments. The clubhouse kitchen walls need reworking. All shooting sports committees have work for you to do. Give any of us a call and pick up a little job.

Complete your 5 hour club work commitment. Bring a gun & enjoy our ranges with your club member friends. ★

Any and all types of guns: shotguns, handguns, antique guns, target guns, hunting guns, European guns, military guns, World War II guns, and helmets, Civil War guns and swords.

One gun or entire collection.

Peter G. Dowd Fully Licensed and Insured Page 24

Peter G. Dowd

At home appointments may be arranged.

(508) 366-1999 The

30 Years Experience NRA Life Member GOAL Life Member

Outdoor Message

March 2012

WOODVILLE ROD & GUN CLUB

252 Wood Street ~ Woodville, Massachusetts 01784 508-435-4148 ~ www.woodvillerodandgun.com

Est. 1927

Meetings

Heidi Schwarz hschwarz@ netexposure.net or Kim Clark kimba57@comcast.net. You can send them with captions or without. Or send them to The Outdoor Message committee, Cherryl Barrett cherryl_b@hotmail.com Phil Goodwin phil-sheila@comcast.net, Tom Marcone tmarcone@comcast.net or Remillard karen.remillard Karen @emc.com

Members’ Meetings held on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the Month, at 8:00 pm.

New Membership interviews held on the 2nd Thursday of the Month, at 7:00 pm.

Trap shooting is every Sunday at 1:30 pm.

Club Website

Scholarship

www.woodvillerodandgun.com

Calendar of Events 2012 3/3/2012 3/18/2012 4/14/2012 4/21/2012 4/28/2012 4/29/2012 5/5/2012 5/12/2012 5/19/2012 8/4/2012 8/25/2012 9/9/2012 10/13/2012 10/27/2012 10/31/2012 11/3/2012 11/22/2012 12/8/2012 12/9/2012

Horseshoe Banquet Meat Shoot Comedy night Trout Derby Club Cleanup Meat Shoot Margarita night Kids Fishing Derby Deep Sea Fishing Seafood Bake Club Cleanup Chicken BBQ Porketta Feed Adult Halloween Party Kids Halloween Party Comedy night Thanksgiving Adult Christmas Kids Christmas

Get Well Wishes

Get well wishes to John Brooks, Gary Truell, Ed Grant, Skip Lukey. Please keep Al Johnson in your prayers, he is home now after a recent visit to the hospital.

A note from Al: anyone interested in a Blue Press Reloading Setup? If so, please send an email to Wendy Johnson at alwendy2@charter.net

Super Bowl Sunday

This year we had another full house at the club for Super Bowl Sunday!

Congratulations to Joe Antonio and Pinky Mason for winning the TV raffle. Thank You to Brad and Priscilla Lovejoy for purchasing the TVs each year. We can’t forget the folks who arranged all the munchies, set up the buffet and helped clean it all up. Even though the Pats didn’t win, a good time was had by all.

Corn Toss

Wednesdays rain or shine!!

2012 Game Feed

Lee Wright, President Saturday night's game feed was a huge success.

Karl Dakai and Ed Grant did a stand up job in the organizing, prep and execution of the event.

This was one of, if not the, smoothest running game feed I've been to, and I've been to every one since 1990.

The food was outstanding, Ed, Karl, and George Zanella really out did themselves this year!

I couldn't pick out a favorite course this year! There were a lot of compliments on the food, and every course was mentioned!

Thank you to all who donated meat, fish, veggies and fruit. Without these donations this event couldn't be held, as the cost of the meat alone would prohibit it. And a thank you to all others who washed pots and pans, peeled and cut March 2012

The club offers a $500 scholarship each year. Call the club or email David Laquidara at oct31st@comcast.net or go to our website for more info.

The kitchen staff at the Game Feed produced an amazing meal!

veggies, shopped, parked cars and all others who lent a hand.

There were a lot of helpers who showed up and without your support we wouldn't have the best game feeds in the area. I dare you to tell me where you can find a better feed!

Pitch

The season began on Thursday 1/12/2012 at 6:30 pm. We have about 16 members who are enjoying the camaraderie of playing pitch. I think they are having a good time! They get very quiet, and looking very serious at times.

day. Come on down and bring a friend, weather permitting. Trap starts at 1:30 pm on Sundays. The public is welcome.

Pictures

Do you have any pictures you’d like to have put in The Outdoor Message or on our website? Please send them over to anyone on the Website Committee, Gary Schultz shulg@msn.com, Karen Remillard karen.remillard@emc.com,

Clothing

If you’re interested in club clothing see Cherryl Barrett, or send an e-mail: cherryl_b@hotmail.com. There is also a sign up sheet at the clubhouse. There will be a nominal deposit for clothing being ordered.

Hall Rentals

The hall is available for rentals, please contact, Kim Clark at kimba57@ comcast.net or leave a message at 508435-4148. ★

GOAL Membership

There are many benefits of being a GOAL member that will also benefit us. Beside GOAL representing & protecting our rights to bear arms, they also pay for you to receive The Outdoor Message, thus a cost savings for the club. Applications are at the club, in the newsletter or online at <www.goal.org>. Please consider signing up for GOAL.

Reminders

• If anyone knows of a member who is sick or hospitalized, please let us know.

You can leave a message at 508-4354148.

• Please remember to lock the gate behind you if you are the last or only person that is on the range on any given

Attention Shooting Sports Enthusiasts

Motivated Telemarketers Needed to Fill Immediate Openings Lew Horton Distributing is looking for motivated business-to-business telemarketers to work from our Westboro, MA office. Join our experienced sales staff as we continue to grow. We offer a competitive salary and benefit package, 401k, and commission program, with bonuses for new customer development.

Responsibilities include: 80+ sales calls per day to firearms dealers across the country, servicing current accounts and developing new buying customers.

Requirements: knowledge of the shooting sports is essential, sales experience a plus.

Forward resumes to Earl Minot at: ERMinot@lewhorton.com or fax to 508-366-5332 Phone inquiries welcome 508-366-7400, ext 230 The

Outdoor Message

Page 25

FIN, FUR AND FEATHER CLUB OF WELLESLEY AND NATICK Pistol and Rifle Report As of the writing of this article we are 19 weeks into the Maspenock League Season, the Pistol Team has a record of 16 and 3. As we mention each month we are always looking for new shooters who are interested in .22 caliber bullseye target shooting. All you need to do is come to one of the Wednesday night matches anytime during the season between 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm.

7 March Millis @ Hopkinton 14 March Millis @ Southborough 21 March Riverside @ Millis Maspenock @ Millis 28 March The entire schedule and directions to the other clubs can be found on our club’s webpages. You can also contact Ken Wellington for further information.

We have been focusing on our Outdoor Range recently and we are still having a chronic problem with shooters not removing and disposing of their targets before leaving the range. Whether it is paper, cans, or anything else, you must either throw them in one of the trash barrels or take them home with you.

Remember you must follow the rules about acceptable targets. Unlike the

re u t u depends f

Indoor Range where paper targets are the only approved target, the Outdoor Range allows a wider range of targets and is great for “just plinking”, but you must follow the target rules and pickup when you are finished shooting.

Skeet and Trap Report

Most of the formal Skeet and Trap events for the year have now been scheduled, including the Easter Lucky Ham Shoot and Rt. 109 Shoot in April, the Club Skeet Championship in May, and the Medfield Golden Trap Shoot in June. See the calendar on the club’s webpages for specific dates. A window of three months of activities is also printed below.

Special Events

The NRA and GOAL Foundation's Women-On-Target program will be held here at the Fin, Fur and Feather on Saturday, June 2nd. This event introduces women ages 16 and beyond to the enjoyment of the shooting sports. Guests learn about firearm safety and proper shooting fundamentals in a relaxed, noncompetitive atmosphere. Each participant will attend a seminar on Massachusetts Firearms Law given by Jon Green from GOAL. After lunch, the guests will shoot rifle, pistol and trap. Each participant will receive a Massachusetts Basic Firearm Safety certificate allowing them to apply for a Firearms Identification Card or a License to Carry. For more information, and to sign up, see our Women-On-Target page on the club’s website. This is a very important event and we will continue to

!

T

The on the young. kid shootin a e g ak

PO Box 272, 100 Larch Road - Millis, MA 02054-0272 508-376-2977 www.finfurandfeather.us

EDWARD GEORGE & ASSOCIATES

s We concentrate in civil litigation representing closely held businesses including negotiation and court appearances in matters involving real estate, business, contracts and environmental disputes.

s We also concentrate in representing individuals and families in trust and probate (estate) litigation and administration and personal injury claims.

s We advise small businesses, clubs and associations regarding compliance with regulations, risk management, employment and related issues.

s We serve as general counsel to a number of corporations, LLC’s and partnerships.

“We like to represent the sports men and women of Massachusetts.”

110 Florence Street, 2nd Floor PO Box 393 Malden, MA 02148

Club Communications

There have been a number of discussions in the past several months at the club and at the Board of Directors meetings about what is the best method of communicating club information to our members. This would include info on the upgrading of club facilities, scheduling special events, or the schedule of the many normal events planned each year. In a world of electronic gadgets, i.e. PCs, MACs, Smart phones, etc. there was consideration of just using our website for all the club’s communications. For years we have been using this publication, The Outdoor Message, as our communication media that not only provides for our club information, but information about the many other clubs around us.

There are also great articles about important legislative actions going on up on Beacon Hill and nationwide issues all sportsmen must be aware of to continue our 2nd Amendment rights. Gun Owners’ Action League watches out for the sportsmens’ rights here in Massachusetts.

The Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife who is responsible for the conservation - including restoration, protection and management - of fish and wildlife resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the public. The Division works to balance the needs of people and wildlife today so wildlife will be available for everyone's enjoyment today and for future generations. Both organizations have very informative articles published each month.

After consideration the Board of

Directors continues to feel that The Outdoor Message provides the greatest variety of sporting news and it will continue to be our monthly communications media.

New Members

Membership applicants in February: Charles Andes, Jr. - Medway Christopher Koure - Natick Eric Melanson - Sherborn David Mourse - Sherborn George Wilds - Franklin Note: The next New Member Safety Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, March 11th at 11 am.

Calendar of Events

March 3 5 8 11 15 25 25 31 April 1 8 9 15 19 22 29 30 May 5 7 12 13 17 20 31

Game Dinner 6:30 PM Board of Directors 8: PM Ducks Unlimited Smoker 7 PM New Member Safety Mtg 11 AM Practical Shooting 8 PM Club 900 Shoot 8 AM Youth Trap League Starts 1:30 PM Game Preserve Ends 5 PM Easter Ham Shoot 12 PM Easter - CLUB CLOSED All Day BOD/Quarterly Meeting 8 PM New Member Safety 11 AM Practical Shoot 8 PM RT109 Shoot 12 PM Club 900 Match 8 AM WOT Planning Mtg 7:30 PM Club Fishing Derby 9 AM Board of Directors 8 PM Scouts Fishing Derby 12 PM New Member Safety Mtg 11 AM Practical Shoot 8 PM Club Skeet Championship 12 AM Seniors Fishing Derby 10 AM

Web Page

Please visit our club web page at http://www.finfurandfeather.us for a lot more information about the club and its activities. Many thanks to our webmaster Ken Wellington for much of the information published above.

Address Updates

If you've had an address change, please forward it to Greg Nealand at The Fin, Fur and Feather Club, P.O. Box 272, Millis, MA 02054, or email to webmaster@finfurandfeather.us. ★

Attention Members of the Fin Fur & Feather Club of Wellesley & Natick:

If you are a member of GOAL, the Fin Fur & Feather Club of Wellesley & Natick can provide you with their monthly news at no cost to them!

That’s right. As a member of both GOAL and the Club you can receive one copy of The Outdoor Message and GOAL will pay for it.

To find out who is paying for your subscription, look above your name on the address label on page one.

The second set of numbers (2-digits) is your group number.

If it is a "91", congratulations! You're saving the Club money.

If you see a "34", the Club is picking up the cost.

Tel: 781-322-7575 Fax : 781-322-1555 email: e.george@verizon.net www.edgeorgelaw.com

Page 26

remind you.

On March 8th there will be the Ducks Unlimited Smoke & Joke Dinner at the Fin Fur and Feather Club. The evening includes dinner, superb handmade cigars from General Cigar and others and will feature the political rants of “The Guy from Boston”, Joe Ligotti! We are homing in on the $100K mark of capital raised for our Charles River Chapter thanks to all of you. So if you have not been with us before, you really do not know what a great evening you are missing!

Tickets are only $49 per person which also includes a year’s membership in Ducks Unlimited, but we plan on emptying your entire wallet at the event and we promise there is not a cheap seat in the house to enjoy the rants of Joe Ligotti!

There is a link on the club’s website home page under Upcoming Events where you can sign up and get more information.

To save your Club money, simply sign up on line at http://www.goal.org/joingoal.html or use the application on page 20 to enroll in GOAL today!

The

Outdoor Message

March 2012

HANSON ROD AND GUN CLUB

Davis Road - PO Box 101 Hanson MA 02341

President: Vice President: Secretary: Treasurer:

Phone 781-293-9872

March Meetings Please be advised that this month’s regularly scheduled Business Meeting will be held at 7:30 PM on Thursday, March 8th, 2012.

The March Board of Directors Meeting will be held at 7 PM on Thursday, March 22nd, 2012.

AR – 15 Raffle Department

Mitch Soroko This year’s Hanson Rod & Gun Club “Gun of the Year” is a Smith and Wesson Model M&P15, AR15 rifle. It is offered in a .223 caliber. Raffle tickets are available from any Board of Director member and are $5.00 each or a book of 5 tickets for $20.00. Congratulations to member Jack Ferry who won last year’s rifle. Jack’s lucky ticket was drawn at the Annual Election Meeting in January.

www.hansonrodandgunclub.org

Hunter Ed

Mike Dunn The Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Hunter Education Course will be offered in the clubhouse on April 2nd, 4th and 6th as well as April 9th, 11th and 13th. This six-night course will run from 6 PM to 9 PM each night.

Interested students wishing to obtain their Massachusetts Firearms Identification Card as well as be able to ascertain their 2012 Massachusetts Hunting License are urged to register for this course. To register please do so on line at the Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife website. For additional details please see Mike Dunn any Sunday Morning at the clubhouse or at any club business meeting.

Become An Outdoor Women

Mike Dunn Bob Preston Mitch Soroko Bill Segalla

Executive Board: Dave Gonsalves Richard Shoughrow Greg Williams

Angelo Nuby Dave Bouldry John Coyman

Robin Hood wannabes will be instructed each week for a mere $3 fee.

All members are further reminded that after the juniors leave the range at 7:30 PM the adult members then take over and shoot until… whenever!

Junior Trap Ages 12 to 18

Adam Preston Junior shooters from the Bill Segalla (left) and Jim Dwyer (right) receive plaques ages of 12 to 18 are for their contributions to our club. Also receiving a encouraged to attend this plaque, but missing from the camera's eye is Parker new program for shotgun Williamson. enthusiasts. To get this program off the ground this event will start on the Thursday nights of March 1st, At the recent February 9th Business March 15th and March 29th at 6:30 PM. our club presented plaques for Meeting Further dates will be announced shortly. A exemplary service to Club Treasurer Bill reduced range fee of $7 includes 25 Segalla, Former Trap Chairman Jim rounds of either 12-gauge or 20-gauge Dwyer and outgoing Membership ammunition. Loner shotguns are Parker Williamson.

These Chairman available. Interested shooters should members have been extremely generous contact Adam Preston at 774.406.1573. with their time and have given a great deal of effort leading to the success of our organization. Pictured inset are recipients Jim Dwyer and Bill Segalla.

Missing from the camera’s eye is Parker Williamson.

Members Honored

Karen Obillo All members are reminded that Saturday, April 28th, 2012 is the date of the Annual Massachusetts Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Become An Outdoor Women Program (aka B.O.W.). All the club ranges will be closed for the day as about forty plus guests will be learning a number of different shooting formats. Interested participants are asked Jon Soroko to register on line at Members are urged to check out the new the Massachusetts offerings of the club store. New for 2012 Department of are some beautiful polo style golf shirts Jack Ferry and his raffle prize. Jack's winning Fisheries and Wildlife as well as some new quarter zip Range Jim Dwyer (right) and Angelo Nuby (left) are sweatshirts. Jon has also received a ticket was drawn at the January Annual Meeting website. officers and help will awarded their Distinguished Expert Certificates for variety of club hats. Get ‘em while they and Election. be needed on this day. each completing the NRA Shotgun Qualification are hot!!

Any member wishing to ascertain Program for Trap Shooting.

Until next month…Bob P. ★ work hours should contact Karen at any club business meeting.

Dave Goncalves Dan Grant Sunday, March 11th at 11 AM is the time Congratulations to trap frame for our club’s newest event, the 22 shooters Angelo Nuby and Steel Plate Shoot. All interested Paul Casper Jim Dwyer who recently “Steelers” are asked to put this date on the All members are reminded that the MBTA collected their last run of calendar and to come down to the range Cadets will be training on our ranges. At 25 straight target scores. for some fun and action. Shooters should these times the ranges will be closed for In doing this they both bring their ammo, their favorite .22 cal member use. Members are asked to please achieved the title of NRA semi automatic handgun and five respect the cadets training times and to magazines to shoot the course. The cost to schedule their own range usage around the Shotgun Distinguished participate is a measly five bucks! Come MBTA schedule. The dates of the police Expert.

Also in the news from join the fun! range usage are as follows: our range is member Ron MBTA Police - Wednesday, March Anctil who recently 21st, 8AM to 5PM started his NRA Shotgun BC Police - Wednesday, March 28th, Program.

Ron broke a pair 9AM to 8PM of 18s to qualify for the MBTA Police – Monday, April 2nd to Mary Hurney rating of Pro – Marksman.

Sunday, April 22nd is the date of our Friday, April 6th, 8AM to 4PM MBTA Police – Monday, April 9th to Currently Dan Grant and club’s annual .22 Rifle Shoot. Mary has his son Kyle are in a dead corralled a huge number of animated Friday, April 13th, 8AM to 4PM MBTA Police - Wednesday, April 18th, heat as to who will Ed Nelson takes aim to take down one of Hanson Rod targets to shoot at. These will range from achieve their “NRA & Gun’s more elusive clay pigeons. paper animal targets to plastic Easter 8AM to 5PM. Expert Class” rating first! eggs, bowling pins etc. Participants are reminded that this shoot is for iron sight guns only. Absolutely no scopes or aim Mike Hurney points. This is not for competition grade Please be advised that our club Archery GENERAL PRACTICE OF LAW rifles. Remember folks we did say “Old department now features a full Junior ~~~~~ Fashioned!” So get out that old .22 caliber Olympic Archery Development Program FAMILY & ELDER LAW CONSUMER & MILITARY LAW bolt action or whatever. You know the one or J.O.A.D. Our Junior Archers are MEDICAID & ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE we mean! You probably haven’t shot it shooting on Monday Nights at 6 PM. since you were a kid! Please come down REAL ESTATE ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS Members wishing to have their junior and give this event a try. Winners receive ~~~~~ archery enthusiasts become more efficient a nice prize, plus bragging rights until 781-963-6337 with a bow and arrow are encouraged to next year!! For details please see either 10 MAZZEO DRIVE, SUITE 211 bring their respective youngsters to this Mary or Mike Hurney at any business RANDOLPH, MA 02368 weekly event. Please be advised that all meeting.

Club Store Open For Business

.22 Caliber Steel Plate

Trap

MBTA

Annual Old Fashioned .22 Caliber Rifle Shoot

Archery

March 2012

KAREN L. MACNUTT

The

Outdoor Message

Page 27

BARRE SPORTSMEN'S CLUB

PO Box 111 - 221 Spring Hill Road - Barre, MA 01005 978-355-4643 Email: barresportsmansclub@gmail.com ~ Website: www.barresportsmansclub.org

Membership

Pistol

We are at capacity for membership – 175 members. There is now a waiting list.

Please don’t discourage anyone who might be interested in applying, just be sure they know there is a waiting list, and that when openings occur people will be called in the order their application was received to fill a vacated spot. Renewals occur in March/April timeframe, which is typically when changes in membership become evident.

Pertinent Reports

Treasurer’s and Bar reports were all read and accepted.

Archery/Trap

Done for 2011 season. Announcements will be made when these are to start up again.

Sporting Clays

10 am on Saturdays, except the 3rd Saturday when it will be at 1 pm (to avoid conflict with Pistol).

Pistol shoots are now back to 3rd Saturday at 9 am. Any questions, call Bert DuVernay at 413-477-6529.

Youth Turkey Hunters

The course for new hunters will be March 31st. Be sure if you have taken the course in prior years, and you wish to hunt this year, that you register. Registration to hunt is required.

Volunteer Mentors For Youth Turkey Hunters

We need volunteers to mentor the attendees for this event. Please contact Rick French 978-939-8946. We need to be sure we have enough mentors for the attendees, especially the return hunters.

Gate and Key Updates

Keys for the building are still in process.

Updates will be given as available. There will be a new gate lock which will be installed shortly. Details to follow.

Do you need a painter? Hire a Pro!

Mark S. Lewandowski 508-410-7783

“The Mark of Excellence” GOAL Patron Member

Kitchen Hood

The hood and ventilation system update is under way. The licensed contractor has reviewed the needed repairs and is scheduled to make these repairs in February. Thank you very much to our member William Burnett for taking on the handling of this issue, and doing so in a highly professional and expeditious manner.

Fall Sportsmen’s Classic 2012

As promised, we are already working on this to get the tickets to the members for sale ASAP. Our goal is by the Game Supper (March) to have flyers with all the prizes, and to have tickets then (or very shortly thereafter) available to sell. As soon as all the details are completed on the gun raffle items (guns, crossbow, bow and muzzleloader), we will again have an option to mail in checks to get tickets, with a printed order form in The Outdoor Message. Watch for the update, once details are in!

Other Items at the Meeting

Professional Painter and Paper Hanger

Established 1987

REMINDER WHEN AT THE CLUB – WHEN YOU LEAVE, PLEASE CLOSE THE GATE BEHIND YOU IF YOU ARE LAST TO LEAVE. The front gate has been left wide open extensively this Winter.

Insured

Winter Savings - Limited Time Only!

WINTER SALE INSTANT REBATE

Dave Copaz spoke on public and private partnerships at the membership meeting.

DATE CHANGE Grand Slam Fishing Derby, March 3rd

978-724-0213 Mark Keonig • Speaker will be JR Greene, on the History of the Quabbin Reservoir. (If you have never seen/heard him speak, it is well worth attending; very interesting!)

• Spaghetti dinner – for donations (no ticket cost), but please RSVP to Mark Keonig • Raffle with prizes after dinner and the presentation.

• Kids welcome!

Need a Firearm s Safety or Basic Pis tol course?

Check The Sportsman’s Calendar on page 30 or The GOAL Foundation listing on page 14.

Blue Northern Trading Company

91 Littleton Road, Route 2A, Ayer, MA 01432 (Located 3 1/2 miles west of I-495) 978-772-6779 Hours: Mon-Closed; Tues-Fri 9 am - 6 pm; Sat 9 am - 5 pm; Sun 9 am - 3 pm

Discover - MasterCard - Visa - Layaways - Gift Certificates

-- F IREARMS --

-- R ELOADING S UPPLIES --

Holsters, targets, scopes, cleaning supplies, ammo

Large selection of guns and accessories

New, used, bought, sold, all brands Presses, tools, powder, Dillon dealer

-- S HOOTING A CCESSORIES --- A RCHERY --

Hoyt, PSE and Browning bows, accessories, Easton arrows

-- M UZZLE L OADING --

-- F RESHWATER F ISHING --

All types of rods & reels, huge variety of lures and tackle

-- S ALTWATER F ISHING --

Boat & surf rods & reels, Extensive selection of tackle

-- F LY F ISHING --

Fresh & saltwater rods & reels, line, tackle, hundreds of flies

-- F LY T YING --

Supplies, tools and classes

NRA Handgun Courses --- Live Bait --- Boating Accessories Page 28

The

Outdoor Message

Volunteers Needed In March 5th – 9th

Ongoing preparations for Game supper.

Questions? Call Fig.

2012 Club Calendar

MARCH 2012 (Watch the mail for membership renewals!)

Thursday, 1st – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting DATE CHANGE - Saturday, 3rd – Grand Slam Fishing Derby Banquet (POC Mark Keonig 978-724-0213) Thursday, 8th – 7:30 pm, BOD Week of 5th-9th – Ongoing preparations for Game supper (questions, call Fig.) Saturday, 10th – 6 pm, Game Supper (POC Fig 978-857-8202) Saturday, 31st – Youth Turkey Hunting Course (POC Pepper Cooley 978-3556218 & Rick French 978-939-8946) APRIL 2012 Thursday, 5th – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting Saturday, 7th – PRIVATE RENTAL BY MEMBER Thursday, 12th – 7:30 pm, BOD Saturday, 28th – Meat Raffle (POC Barry Peddle 413-477-8829 & Ed Pollock 413-813-8345) Saturday, 30th – DEADLINE FOR MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS

MAY 2012 Thursday, 3rd – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting Thursday, 10th – 7:30 pm, BOD Monday-Tuesday 14-15th – MALAFIA Gun Course Saturday-Sunday 19-20th – BOY SCOUTS CAMPOUT Memorial Day weekend, 26th – 28th – PRIVATE RENTAL

JUNE 2012 Sunday, 3rd – 1 pm, Steak & Lobster Dinner (POC Fig 978-857-8202) Tuesday-Wednesday 5-6th – MALAFIA Gun Course Thursday, 7th – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting Friday-Saturday 8-9th – GIRL SCOUT CAMPOUT Thursday, 14th – 7:30 pm, BOD

JULY 2012 Thursday, 5th – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting Thursday, 12th – 7:30 pm, BOD

AUGUST 2012 Thursday, 2nd – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting Thursday, 9th – 7:30 pm, BOD

SEPTEMBER 2012 Thursday, 6th – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting, (ELECTION OF OFFICERS) Sunday, 9th – 11 am, Clambake (POC Fig 978-857-8202) Thursday, 13th – 7:30 pm, BOD Sunday, 23rd - TENTATIVE date of 2 Club shoot

OCTOBER 2012 Thursday, 4th – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting Saturday, 6th – FALL HUNTER’S KICKOFF (POC Rob 978-7717013/Meridith 978-434-7932) Thursday, 11th – 7:30 pm, BOD Meeting NOVEMBER 2012 Thursday, 1st – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting Saturday, 3rd – 9 am, Youth Pheasant Hunt (POC Chris Duggan 978-9285878) Sunday, 4th – 10 am, Turkey Shoot (POC Rob D. 978-771-7013) Thursday, 8th – 7:30 pm, BOD DECEMBER 2012 Thursday, 6th – 7:30 pm, Club Meeting Thursday, 13th – 7:30 pm, BOD ★

March 2012

STANDISH SPORTSMAN’S ASSOCIATION

P.O. Box 258 East Bridgewater, Massachusetts 02333 www.standishsportsmans.com

2012 Sportsmans Show

We had our best show ever with the largest turnout of guests and members for our annual Sportsman’s Show the weekend of February 4 and 5, probably due to the great weather we’ve been having this winter! The Sportsman’s Show is our largest fund raising event of the year and once again we owe a great deal of thanks to Hugh Hurley, his committee members and all the other club members for all the time and effort they put in to making the show such a great success. A more detailed report on the show and a complete list of “Thank You’s” will be in next month’s newsletter.

Membership

It looks like we will have about 30 membership openings this year, when the final head count is done. Our waiting list is currently over 90 names long. We voted in Robert Azzola as our newest Charter member at the February business meeting and we had the first reading for new

Charter membership application for Steven Mofford.

Standish Web Site

Bob Phillips has volunteered to begin work on updating and maintaining our current club web site, standishsportsmans.com. Please send any club news, information, photos, etc. to Bob via his e-mail, phillips.ra@comcast.net to get it posted on our web site.

Trap and Skeet

Walter Potaznick gave his trap and skeet report for January and he also thanked Joe McLaughlin, Scott Blood and the others who have been working on repairing the skeet houses. Skeet is open for everyone, now that the repairs have been made.

3-D Archery

George Andrews passed out a report on the January 3-D shoot. We had 38 adults, 4 youths and one cub shooter. Thanks to

Business Meeting - Thursday March 1 at 7 pm Board of Directors - Thursday March 22 at 7 pm

George, Craig Warmington, John Brennan, Ed Souza, Jerry Snuffer, Tim Hill, Richard and Terry Sandstrom, Walter Potaznick, Ken Kelley, Joe McLaughlin, Dennis Vallee, Dominic and Mike DiBlasio, Dan Svirsky, Everett Hanson, Jim Augenti, Lorna and Mike Vasapollo and Ed Holmes for all their help in setting up, running and taking down the 3-D course.

Our next 3-D shoot will be on Sunday, April 15, with setup on Friday morning April 13 at 8:30.

Junior Conservation Camp

The membership voted to send Michael Souza and Brandon Cannistraro to Junior Conservation camp this year.

Thanks to Bob Phillips for taking over the camp selection committee.

Around the Club

rifle and pistol ranges. Anyone who has plywood to donate can put it in the rifle range enclosure. The Monday night pistol shoots are going well. Come on down between 6:00 and 9:00 pm to have some informal shooting fun. Sunday morning trap and skeet continue to draw good crowds and it is also open to the public, beginning at 10:00 am.

New Key Notice

The club has changed the keys to the front entrance gate and clubhouse. As of the February business meeting you will need your new key to get in the club. The easiest way to get a new key is to come to the club on Sunday mornings and get any officer or director to get your new key and membership card from the director’s storeroom.

Respectfully, Tim Santry ★

We are looking for donations of plywood for use as target backers on the outdoor

THE COPICUT RIFLE ASSOCIATION

Membership Anyone wishing to join the club can contact Ray Raposa 508-636-5250 or rayraposa@verizon.net

YOUR DUES ARE DUE NOW!

You must have a valid NRA and GOAL number (SEND A COPY WITH YOUR RENEWAL). You will not receive a key without your valid membership numbers and expiration dates. You can renew your NRA or GOAL through CRA. Annual dues $50.00 Initiation fee $25.00 NRA - 1yr- $35.00 GOAL – 1 yr- $30.00

Officers of CRA

President- George Tripp gtripp62@comcast.net Vice President- Paul Leblanc rleblanc10@ieee.org Secretary- Scott Clarke pistolshooter63@yahoo.com Treasurer- Ray Raposa rayraposa@verizon.net BOD Members, Kurt Palmer kpalmer@jkusa.com Marty Casey sailorcasey@verizon.net Russ Sylvia rochbus@hotmail.com

Rhode Island League

Copicut Rifle Association has two excellent rifle teams that compete in the Rhode Island League Matches. We are always looking for rifle shooters who will become serious to compete with us. Any Copicut member who would like to shoot for the Copicut teams in the Rhode Island League can contact Ray Raposa at 508636-5250 or rayraposa@verizon.net Individual Rankings Rhode Island League State Championship 10/2/2011 South County Rod & Gun Club

March 2012

P.O. Box 3049 Westport, MA 02790 508-636-5250 copicutrifleassociation.org

1 Caires, Joe Match Rifle High Master 1 23 193-4X 196-10X 200-7X 200-11X 789-32X 2 Leblanc, Ron Match Rifle High Master 1 8 189-1X 196-7X 197-4X 20013X 782-25X 3 Warszawski, John Match Rifle Master 1 13 188-3X 200-10X 194-5X 198-9X 780-27X 4 Lewis, Scott Match Rifle High Master 1 6 190-2X 196-9X 193-7X 1989X 777-27X 5 Mathis, Kevin Match Rifle High Master 1 17 181-2X 198-5X 196-3X 1997X 774-17X 6 Polseno, John Service Rifle Master 1 12 189-4X 199-7X 188-2X 195-3X 77116X 7 Lawson, Jim Service Rifle Master 1 15 181-2X 197-7X 196-5X 196-5X 77019X 8 Colley, Grant Match Rifle Expert 1 24 184-3X 194-4X 196-8X 189-6X 76321X 9 Palmer, Kurt Service Rifle High Master 1 5 183-2X 200-10X 185-1X 1954X 763-17X 10 Comastra, Anthony Service Rifle Expert 1 19 186-1X 194-3X 186-0X 1844X 750-8X 11 Banner, Greg Service Rifle Sharpshooter 1 10 178-1X 192-4X 1871X 186-1X 743-7X 12 Dubois, Aime Service Rifle Master 1 18 182-1X 190-3X 176-3X 194-2X 742-9X 13 Titus, Jim Service Rifle Expert 1 14 179-0X 194-4X 189-0X 179-1X 741-5X 14 Faunce, Tim Service Rifle Expert 1 21 180-0X 190-6X 180-0X 187-5X 73711X 15 Lewis, Kerri Service Rifle High Master 1 22 185-2X 193-3X 188-1X 1701X 736-7X 16 Leblanc, Holly Service Rifle Sharpshooter 1 9 164-1X 188-3X 182-3X 195-3X 729-10X 17 Jolin, Jim Service Rifle Expert 1 4 183-1X 182-4X 182-2X 175-1X 722-8X 18 Gath, Dennis Service Rifle Expert 1 The

11 174-0X 189-3X 171-2X 183-3X 7178X 19 Dehart, Steve Service Rifle Marksman 1 20 176-1X 178-3X 180-1X 173-0X 707-5X High Master 97.00 above, Master 94.00 to 96.99, Expert 89.00 to 93.99, Sharpshooter 84.00 to 88.99, Marksman Below 84.00

50 rd NMC

The National Match Course matches are for beginning and experienced shooters who want to become good rifle shooters and perhaps shoot in the RI League as they develop their shooting skills. Some guns and ammo are available at these shoots with some instruction for shooting the matches.

All shoots start at 9:00 am. For more info contact Ray at rayraposa@verizon.net or 508-636-5250.

CMP

The CMP matches are for beginning rifle shooters and are also for those CRA members who want to qualify for CMP Garand rifles, and 1903 rifles from the Civilian Marksmanship Program sponsored by the government. Some guns and ammo are available for new shooters to use at these shoots. All shoots start at 10:00 am. For more info contact Ron Leblanc at rleblanc10@ieee.org

GOAL 100 Club Member

Garand & Vintage

This shoot is open to beginner and experienced shooters with a fun and relaxed atmosphere for anyone wanting to shoot M1 Garands, Springfield ‘03's or any vintage military style rifle. M1A’s can now be shot in this shoot. The club also has Garands & M1 Carbines if you wish to shoot but don’t have a rifle. Coaching is available.

For more info contact Kurt Palmer 508-676-9181 or kpalmer@jkusa.com

Zoot Shoot

This is a shoot that is in period dress back in the roaring 20’s. Any questions contact Tom Orlowski at torlo67193@aol.com

News and Reminders

* Thank you to Mitch Plunka for taking over new member orientations from Ray. * Please check the website www.copicutrifleassociation.org for any updates or call the contact. * Any member wishing to post information on the web site, contact Dave Gama at dgama83@comcast.net * Any member wishing to post club information or scores in The Outdoor Message contact Scott Clarke at pistolshooter63@yahoo.com or 508-9990590. * Please inform any officer of address changes. ★

168 Elm Street - Agawam, MA 01001

413-786-0100

Guns Built Bought Sold Traded & Repaired

Tu-W-F 12-8 Th 4-8 Sat 10-5

Outdoor Message

Off hours by appointment Page 29

UXBRIDGE ROD & GUN CLUB West Street - PO Box 412 - Uxbridge MA 01569 www.uxbridgerodandgunclub.com

Meeting Minutes

Fish

Pres. Berube called the February 6, 2012 meeting to order at 7:01 PM. Paul Soares lead the Club in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Pres. Berube acknowledged Jim Valentine as becoming a full-time member this year and that he will be going back to serve his country overseas in Iraq.

Pres. Berube reported the stocking date for February 4th, 2012 was canceled as well as the ice fishing derby on February 11th, 2012, due to poor ice conditions. At this point he is going to have a stocking on March 31st at 10 AM. The pond will be closed for a week and will reopen on April 7th with an Adult Members Fishing Derby, which will run from 8-10 AM. Registration will run from 7-8 AM at the Club House. We are hoping to have the kitchen open for breakfast. Derby rules will be given out at registration; there will be a one line, 2 fish limit with size and time taken to determine the winner. No culling allowed as always.

Other tentative stocking dates at this point will be Saturday, May 5th at 10 AM, closing the pond for a week and reopening on Saturday, May 12th at 8AM with the Children’s Fishing Derby. Registration will be from 7-8 AM with the derby running from 8-10:30 AM. Prizes and trophies will be awarded, as in the past, in all three-age categories.

The tentative fall stocking will be on

Secretary’s Report

Chris Britt read the Secretary’s report.

Bob Miller made a motion to accept; Bob Holmes seconded.

Treasurer’s Report

Jerome Jussaume read the Treasurer’s report. Ed Pokornicki made a motion to accept; Bob Holmes seconded.

There were no reports from Archery, Audit, BMP, Board of Advisors Club House, Forestry, Grounds and Maintenance, Kitchen, Land and Pond, Officers, Pistol, Rifle, Trap, WCL and Website.

Traditional Archery, Muzzleloading Firearms & Accessories ● ● ●

●

Saturday, September 8th at 10 AM closing the pond for a week and reopening on Saturday, September 15th at 7 AM. Please remember to use our pond at your own personal and safe discretion and of others also! Enjoy yourselves and please keep our catch recording sheets up to date.

Game

Brian Stevens, Jr. reported that the game supper was held on January 28th, everything went well and they had a good turn out. He thanked the kitchen staff, Willie, Ray, Ron and everyone else who helped out and the Pheasant Committee.

Membership

Pres. Berube reported that it’s that time of year...as you all know membership renewals started Sunday, February 5th, 2012. We had a total of 42 regular and life members renew at that time. That being said to those of you who haven’t renewed yet, you have the 3 remaining Sundays in February from 12:30-4 PM and Wednesday evening, February 22nd from 6-8 PM. As it stands as of this report we

200 Modern & Muzzleloading Firearms in Stock “The East’s largest stocking Over 150 Bows & Related Accessories in Stock dealer of Shiloh Sharps Single Shot Custom Made Traditional Archery Equipment, Long Bows, Recurves, Rifles and Accessories!”

Quivers, Cedar Arrows, Videos, Books, Feathers, Etc. Dealer for Zebra Archery, Wheeler Long Bows, Buffalo Creek, Howard Hill, Damon Howatt Quality Custom & Semi Custom Muzzleloading Firearms, Related Accessories & Building Components Historical Clothing & Garment Quality Buckskin, Buffalo and Elk Leather

HUNTERS RENDEZVOUS BOWHUNTER’S DEN ● ●

(978)433-9458

Exit 31 off Rt 495 HOURS: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10 am - 6 pm ● 11 miles West on Rt 119 Pepperell, MA Tuesday Call Ahead ● Saturday 10 am - 5 pm ● Sunday 1-5 pm Look for the Log Cabin -- Headquarters for the Traditional Hunter/Sportsman and Historical Reenactor --

have a total of 15 openings for membership for various reasons and have 41 people on our waiting list. Anyone looking to start off the new membership year and need to get in some work hours they can see Ed Gervais or me to help us during renewals. Going forward, Ed will be our new membership chairman and I thank Ed and our new membership committee for stepping up to the plate and helping with that job.

Work Hours

Durk Lawson reported that twenty-five out of twenty-eight probationary members have completed their hours and meetings.

Newsletter

Pres. Berube reported that a new list would be sent after renewals.

Old Business

Nominations. Pres. Berube reopened the nominations. Nominations for Officers were closed. Nominations for Board of Advisors were closed.

New Business

Ray DeMore reported that they put on a meal for the Bass Masters. Mike thanked Pres. Berube and the Club for allowing them to hold it this year at the club; thanked Ray, Nancy, Wil and everyone else who helped out in the kitchen.

Awards were given out.

Bob Miller made a motion to adjourn at 7:30 pm; Bob Holmes seconded.

Respectfully submitted, Chris Britt, Secretary

www.uxbridgerodandgunclub.com

The Sportsman’s Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Education & Training

GENERAL TRAINING

Bristol County Ray 508-336-5724 Mar 8: Gun Law for Citizens blar1@comcast.net Mar 14-15, May 16-17: NRA Metallic Quarterly: 2-day Defensive Handgun Cartridge Reloading Course IM-SAFE Firearms Training Center Apr 5: Art of Concealed Carry in Simsbury, CT Massachusetts Dennis 860-651-4911 Apr 12: Utah Non Resident CCW www.im-safe.com Apr 18: Kubaton The following TRAINING offered Apr 24, May 22: Intro to IDPA AS NEEDED: 37 Pierce Street NRA Home Firearms Safety, NRA Northboro, MA Basic Pistol, NRA Personal Tara 508-393-5333 x22 Protection, Mass Basic Firearms Daily: NRA and Mass Certified Pistol Safety Course and FID Card Course Ayer Gun & Sportsmen’s Club Distribution Firearms Services Ayer, MA 10 Colonial Road Suite 209-C Dan 978-870-7298 Salem, MA dan.damato@comcast.net Must pre-register 978-741-0044 NRA Basic Pistol, Mass Basic 3rd Saturday: NRA Home Firearms Firearms Safety Safety/Mass Basic Firearms Safety Worcester Pistol & Rifle Club Rod & Gun Club of New Bedford Boylston, MA North Hixville Road amerigunteacher@yahoo.com North Dartmouth, MA Must pre-register R.J. 508-676-9861 NRA Basic classes, Advance Tactical classes Last Thursday and Last Saturday: Dynamic Incident Response Basic Firearms Safety & Handling Mike 781-258-6577 dynamic Worcester County Jail and House incidentresponse@comcast.net of Correction Mass Basic Firearms Safety, NRA 5 Paul X Tivnan Dr Home Firearms Safety, NRA Basic West Boylston, MA Pre-register Julie 508-854-1800 x2442 Pistol, NRA Rifle, NRA Shotgun Carver, MA Weekends/Monthly: MA Certified John 508-728-5899 Pistol Course, Law Enforcement and jedduf@gmail.com Civilian Training NRA Basic Pistol, Home Firearm Franklin County League Safety, Tactical Pistol, Concealed 721 River Road Carry, Private Accuracy Workshops Deerfield, MA Central Mass Alan 413-863-2964 www.centralmassfirearmsacademy.com Monthly: Massachusetts Firearms License to Carry Safety Blue Stag School

Page 30

Chelmsford, MA 978-256-6216 or BLUESTAG@COMCAST.NET NRA Basic Pistol, Home Firearm Safety, Personal Protection in the Home; Private Shooting Lessons; Advanced Tactical and Concealed Carry Courses Central MA Area First Defense Firearms, Inc. 508-278-6844 www.firstdefensefirearms.com Mass Basic Firearms Safety, NRA Basic Pistol, NRA Home Firearms Safety, NRA Basic Rifle Dedham & Braintree, MA Mitchel mitch1055@comcast.net FID & LTC Courses Cape Ann Sportsmen’s Club 57 Cherry Street Gloucester, MA 978-283-0304 capeannsportsmansclub.org NRA and Mass State Police Certified Pistol Course, Shotgun Shell reloading, Metallic Cartridge Reloading, Refuse to be A Victim Hampden and Worcester Counties Conrad 413-739-3015 www.FirearmSafetyClass.com NRA Basic Pistol, NRA First Steps Hanson Rod & Gun Club Davis Road Hanson, MA hansontraining@gmail.com NRA and MA State Police Certified Pistol Course Leominster, MA Michael 978-534-2484 firearmsinstruction@gmail.com Smallbore Rifle Courses The

Outdoor Message

★

Ludlow Fish & Game Sportsmen’s Road Ludlow, MA Al 413-782-2917 staff@lfgclub.org Craig 413-589-7093 Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun, Home Firearms Safety Millis, MA Paul 508-541-3164 pgmarier@verizon.net NRA Basic Pistol and NRA Home Firearm Safety Plainville, MA Jeff 508-944-3797 rkba@earthlink.net NRA Home Firearms Safety, Basic Pistol, Personal Protection; Mass Basic Firearms Safety; GLOCK Certified Instructor; GLOCK Armorer Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut Harry 401-965-4648 NRA Basic Pistol, NRA Home Firearms Safety, MA State Certified Shrewsbury, MA Mike 508-330-9430 Mass Basic Firearm Safety Course South Shore Charles 774-776-6494 www.magproinc.com Home Firearms Safety, Basic Pistol, Rifle, Shotgun; Mass Basic Firearms Safety; NRA/NMLRA Muzzleloading South Shore John 781-963-7785 john.monti@comcast.net State Certified Basic Home Firearms Safety, Basic Pistol, Rifle, Personal Protection, Shotgun, Muzzleloading Swansea, MA Richard 508-673-8263

NRA Home Firearms Safety, NRA Basic Pistol, Mass Basic Firearms Safety Swansea, MA Mike or Richard 401-413-2313 Home Firearms Safety, Basic Pistol, Basic Rifle, Shotshell & Metallic Cartridge Reloading Worcester, MA John 508-414-0491 fasafetytrng@aol.com Corporate Seminars & Workshops including workplace Violence and Women’s Safety Seminars. Custom programs available IM-SAFE Firearms Training Center Simsbury, CT Dennis 860-651-4911 www.im-safe.com MA/RI certified instructor, RI Pistol recertifications Tiverton, RI Steven 401-624-2649 steventsr@hotmail.com

INSTRUCTOR TRAINING

Mar 2-4: Basic Pistol & Home Firearms Safety GOAL Foundation Headquarters 37 Pierce Street Northborough, MA Tara 508-393-5333 x22 Mar 27: PowerPoint for Instructors GOAL Foundation Headquarters 37 Pierce Street Northborough, MA Tara 508-393-5333 x22 Apr 15: RSO Course Monument Beach Sportsmens Club (continued on page 32)

March 2012

SHIRLEY ROD & GUN CLUB

Minutes from February Meeting There were 2 new members: Sonny Smith – Lunenburg, Ma. Anthony Galluzzo – Lunenburg, Ma.

Membership

John Stewart out on medical leave due to hip surgery. We wish John a quick recovery.

Upcoming Events

ANNUAL MEETING – Thursday, Mar. 8th – 7:30 pm. Membership dues of $50 to paid at the meeting. Nominations for officers and voting of officers to be held. If you wish to run for an officer’s position, then please attend the annual meeting.

Annual Game Supper – Saturday, Mar. 10th – 6:00 – 8:00 pm. Leigh Blakely is looking for donations for the game supper.

You can bring donations to the March 8th Annual meeting. Leigh will be at the club on Friday, March 9th at 6:00 PM for donations. Leigh will take donations on the day of the game supper. Donations need to be thawed please. Please contact Leigh at 978-273-0105.

Easter meat raffle – Thursday, April 5th – 7:00 – 9:00 PM. Please contact Buff at 978-394-3860.

Dick Burnap announced the next Friends of the NRA Banquet being held on September 21st. Please see Rodney Huff to sign up. We have a table of 10 people at a discounted rate of $40.00 per person. Please contact Rodney Huff at 978-660-8309.

Leigh Blakely is looking for a group to go Wild Boar hunting. Looking at the following weekends: Friday, May 11th to Sunday, May 13th Friday, May 18th to Sunday, May 20th The cost is approximately $800.00 for everything. Please contact Leigh at 978273-0105.

Kittredge Road, P.O. Box 327, Shirley, MA 01464 Tel: 978-425-2570 www.shirleyrodandgunclub.com 4th of July meat raffle – Thursday, June 21st – 7:00 – 9:00 PM July Monthly meeting – Thursday, July 12th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm August Monthly meeting – Thursday, August 9th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm AUGUSTFEST – Saturday, August 11th noon until dusk Labor Day meat raffle – Thursday, August 23rd – 7:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday Night 3D – last of regular shoots – Wed. Aug. 29th – 5 pm until dark September Wednesday Night 3D Broad Head 1 of 2 shoots – Wed. Sept. 5th – 5 pm until dark Wednesday Night 3D Broad Head last shoot – Wed. Sept. 12th – 5 pm until dark Monthly meeting – Thursday, Sept. 13th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm Ducks Unlimited Shoot/Auction –

Sunday, Sept. 16th – 9:00 am – 3:00 pm October Monthly meeting – Thursday, Oct. 11th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm November Monthly meeting – Thursday, Nov. 8th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm TURKEY SHOOT – Sunday, Nov. 18th – 9:00 am – 5:00 pm December Monthly meeting – Thursday, Dec. 13th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm

Officers and Chairs

President: Leigh Blakely 978-273-0105 Vice President: Jim Finnerty 617-3208012 Treasurer: Mike Slocumb 978-621-6050

Secretary: Rodney Huff 978-660-8309 Grounds: Vernon Gustason 978-8080227 Building: Jeff Adams 978-877-1328 Range: Tony Celona 978-577-7884 Fishing: Sarah Celona 978-577-7883 Archery: Leigh Blakely 978-273-0105 New Range: Don Miller Kitchen: John Corwin 978-793-0117 Bar: Craig Carpenter 781-844-4487 Membership: John Stewart 978-4591870 Finance Committee: Frank Esielionis 978-425-4739 Advertising: Rodney Huff 978-660-8309 VOLUNTEERS ARE ALWAYS NEEDED AT THE MANY EVENTS THAT KEEP OUR CLUB FINANCIALLY STRONG! THIS IS YOUR CLUB! Please call an officer or committee chair person to volunteer today. ★

Please tell our advertisers you saw it in The

Outdoor Message™

Reminder

All essays for the Jr. Conservation Camp are due on or at the March 8th meeting. A winner will be selected at the meeting.

Event Calendar

March ANNUAL MEETING – Thursday, Mar. 8th – 7:30 pm. Membership dues of $50 to paid at the meeting. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm Annual Game Supper – Saturday, Mar. 10th – 6:00 – 8:00 pm April Easter meat raffle – Thursday, April 5th – 7:00 – 9:00 PM Monthly meeting – Thursday, April 12th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm Spring cleanup – Saturday, April 21th – 9 am – 1 pm Kid’s fishing derby – Sunday, April 22nd – 10 am – 2 pm May Wednesday Night 3D shoots start – Wednesday, May 2nd – 5 pm until dark Monthly meeting – Thursday, May 10th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm Memorial Day meat raffle – Thursday, May 17th – 7:00 – 9:00 PM June Monthly meeting – Thursday, June 14th – 7:30 pm. Dinner served before meeting – 6:30 pm

March 2012

Find your Fort Knox safe at

Eastern Security Safe

Many Models in Stock ● In-home delivery available Open in two locations!

23 Providence Street Mendon MA 1-877-644-7233

The

13 Bosworth Street West Springfield MA 413-781-1048

Outdoor Message

Page 31

The Sportsman’s Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Education & Training

(continued from page 30)

199 MacArthur Boulevard Bourne, MA Doug 508-367-1665 tables still available!

The following courses offered AS NEEDED: All NRA Disciplines, RSO Training Blue Stag School 978-256-6216 or BLUESTAG@COMCAST.NET NRA Range Safety Officer Certification Holyoke Revolver Club Holyoke, MA 413 539-9345 or roblombardihrc@comcast.net.

NRA Instructor & RSO Training Greater Lowell area Ken 978-692-6818 Gun_Safety@comcast.net NRA Instructor Courses Instructional Shooting Inc. 164 Andover Street Lowell, MA Must pre-register 800-984-4867 www.instructionalshooting.com NRA Instructor Courses for Rifle, Shotgun, Pistol, Personal Protection, Range Safety Officer and Reloading Metallic or Shotgun IM-SAFE Firearms Training Center Simsbury, CT Dennis 860-651-4911 www.im-safe.com

NRA BASIC PISTOL

Mar 6, Apr 3 GOAL Foundation Headquarters 37 Pierce Street Northborough, MA 508-393-5333 x22 Mar 17, Apr 14, May 12 Lowell Sportsmen’s Club 50 Swain Road Chelmsford, MA Rick training@lowellsc.org Mar 24 Southborough Rod & Gun Club 254 Fruit Street Hopkinton, MA John 978-692-2653 johnmgerst@comcast.net Wednesday Evenings Cape Cod Steven 508-548-5879 www.capecodgunsafety.com Monthly. Must pre-register Hamilton-Wenham Rod & Gun Mike 978-815-6989 Every 2nd Wednesday Ludlow Fish & Game Sportsmen’s Road Ludlow, MA Les lprentice@verizon.net Every 3rd Saturday Holyoke Revolver Club 431 West Cherry Street Holyoke, MA 413-539-9345 3rd Sunday Brockton, MA Charles 508-238-1586

chuck@cdavisgroup.com Saturdays & Sundays Instructional Shooting Inc. 164 Andover Street Lowell, MA Must pre-register 800-984-4867 www.instructionalshooting.com Monthly Starfire Haverhill, MA Lynne & Edward 978-373-4325 Monthly - Must pre-register Eastern Rifle & Revolver Club 315 Walnut Street Lynn, MA Sonny 781-599-9882 Twice Monthly Western Massachusetts Robert 413-232-7700 Monthly Tactical Dynamics Firearms Training Foxboro, MA Rob 508.982.8307 rob@tacticaldynamicsfirearmstraining.com or www.tacticaldynamicsfirearmstraining.com

Marlboro, MA Marlboro Fish & Game 1 Muddy Lane Mark 508-393-7575 Maynard, MA Maynard Rod & Gun Club 45 Old Mill Road Kenyon 508-361-4259 trackertx17@yahoo.com New Bedford, MA Joe 508-863-0464 www.nbpistolinstructor.com Revere, MA Boston Firearms Training Center 796 Broadway Tom 781-284-6677 www.bostonfirearms.com Sharon, MA Sharon Fish & Game 307 East Street Dan captdan33@aol.com 781-784-5806 Shrewsbury, MA Mike 508-330-9430 South Shore/Cape Cod Steve 781-974-3920 www.southshoregunsafety.com The following courses offered AS South Shore NEEDED: John 781-963-7785 Blackstone Valley Area john.monti@comcast.net Blackstone Firearms Training LLC Southboro, MA Fred www.basicpistol.com Chuck 508-485-1430 Braintree, MA Swansea, MA John 781-848-0047 Mike or Richard 401-413-2313 jrwalsh@beld.net Tewksbury, MA Central Cape Area Stan 978-658-7308, 978-436-0639 Harwich, MA Westboro, MA Steven 508-432-8036 Self Reliance Firearm Training Central Massachusetts 290 Turnpike Road, Ste 6, Box 390 www.centralmassfirearmsacademy.com Steve 508-963-6073 Central Massachusetts Westford, MA First Defense Firearms, Inc. Stony Brook Fish & Game Assoc.

508-278-6844 Jim 978-392-7996 www.firstdefensefirearms.com gunsafejim@verizon.net Central Massachusetts Weymouth, MA Richard 508-876-9270 Chris 781-812-2541 training@competitionspecialties.com shootsafe4u@aol.com Central Massachusetts Weymouth, MA Charlie 508-981-6402 Weymouth Sportsmen’s Club crfcook@verizon.net Joseph joefeepistolinstruction.com Dedham, MA Tiverton, RI Tom tparisi@comcast.net Steven 401-624-2649 Hampden and Worcester Counties steventsr@hotmail.com Conrad 413-739-3015 www.FirearmSafetyClass.com NRA BASIC RIFLE Hanson, MA 3rd Sunday Hanson Rod & Gun Club Brockton, MA Davis Road Charles 508-238-1586 hansontraining@gmail.com chuck@cdavisgroup.com Harvard, MA Michael 617-803-1307 The following courses offered AS instructor@voland.net NEEDED: Holliston, MA Dracut, MA Holliston Sportsmen’s Association Black North Firearms & Training 137 Bullard Lane Tony 978-337-4044 Ed 508-881-0850 blacknorth@comcast.net.

Lenox, MA Greater Lowell area Lenox Sportsmen’s Club Ken 978-692-6818 New Lenox Road Gun_Safety@comcast.net Lou 413-442-4550 South Shore Greater Lowell area John 781-963-7785 Ken 978-692-6818 john.monti@comcast.net Gun_Safety@comcast.net

Swansea, MA Richard 508-673-8263

NRA BASIC SHOTGUN Monthly Ludlow Fish & Game Sportsmen’s Road Ludlow, MA Ray 413-596-3288 cr2smith@charter.net

NRA HOME FIREARMS SAFETY

Weekly RKBA Personal Safety Training 129 No Main Street, Room 302 Mansfield, MA Jeff 508-944-3797 www.massltctrain.com 1st Tuesday and Thursday monthly Scituate Rod & Gun Club Rte 3A Scituate, MA 781-545-1510 secretary@scituaterg.com 3rd Saturday. Must pre-register Rod & Gun Club of New Bedford North Hixville Road North Dartmouth, MA R.J. Kozik 508-676-9861 3rd Sunday Brockton, MA Charles 508-238-1586 chuck@cdavisgroup.com 3rd Tuesday Cape Cod Fish and Game Off Depot Street North Harwich, MA Jack 508-394-9466 Evenings & Weekends Metrowest Boston, Eastern Mass Mike 508-734-1156 or www.homegunsafety.com

The following courses offered AS NEEDED: Braintree, MA John 781-848-0047 jrwalsh@beld.net Central Cape Area Harwich, MA Steven 508-432-8036 Central Massachusetts www.centralmassfirearmsacademy.com Central Massachusetts First Defense Firearms, Inc. 508-278-6844 www.firstdefensefirearms.com Clinton, MA 978-368-8065 gubber1@verizon.net Hampden and Worcester Counties Conrad 413-739-3015 www.FirearmSafetyClass.com Holliston, MA Holliston Sportsmen’s Association 137 Bullard Lane Ed 508-881-0850 Greater Lowell area Ken 978-692-6818 Gun_Safety@Comcast.net Marlboro, MA

Marlboro Fish & Game 1 Muddy Lane Mark 508-393-7575 Maynard, MA Maynard Rod & Gun Club 45 Old Mill Road Kenyon 508-361-4259 trackertx17@yahoo.com Milford, MA Dave 508-243-1521 New Bedford, MA Joe 508-863-0464 www.nbpistolinstructor.com Revere, MA Boston Firearms Training Center 796 Broadway Tom 781-284-6677 www.botnfirearms.com Shrewsbury, MA Mike 508-330-9430 South Shore John 781-963-7785 john.monti@comcast.net South Shore/Cape Cod Steve 781-974-3920 www.southshoregunsafety.com Southboro, MA Chuck 508-485-1430 Swansea, MA Richard 508-673-8263 Swansea, MA Mike or Richard 401-413-2313 Westboro, MA Self Reliance Firearm Training 290 Turnpike Road, Ste 6, Box 390 Steve 508-963-6073 Westford, MA Stony Brook Fish & Game Assoc.

Jim 978-392-7996 gunsafejim@verizon.net

NRA PERSONAL PROTECTION

Wednesday Evenings Cape Cod Steven 508-548-5879 www.capecodgunsafety.com Monthly Starfire Haverhill, MA Lynne & Edward 978-373-4325

The following courses offered AS NEEDED: Central Cape Area Harwich, MA Steven 508-432-8036 Greater Lowell area Ken 978-692-6818 Gun_Safety@Comcast.net South Shore John 781-963-7785 john.monti@comcast.net Swansea, MA Richard 508-673-8263

REFUSE TO BE A VICTIM

The following courses offered AS NEEDED: Greater Lowell area Ken 978-692-6818 Gun_Safety@comcast.net ★

The Sportsman’s Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shooting Practices

ARCHERY

Club 508-759-5653 1455 Elm Street Thursdays: Indoor Paper, 3D Archery Leominster, MA Wednesdays: Indoor Archery Saturdays: Women’s Indoor Archery Woburn Sportsmen’s Association Manville Sportsmen's Rod & Gun Club CONVENTIONAL PISTOL 155 Middlesex Turnpike 250 High Street Mondays 6:30 pm: Conventional Bedford, MA Manville, RI Bullseye Pistol Shooting indoorarchery@woburnsportsmen.com msrandgc@gmail.com Angle Tree Stone Rod & Gun Club Wednesdays 6 pm: Archery Barre Sportsman’s Club 57 Kelly Boulevard Wrentham Sportsmen’s Association 221 Spring Hill Road North Attleboro, MA 7 Madison Street Barre, MA ljr26thf@yahoo.com Wrentham, MA John 978-355-4071 Mondays & Wednesdays 6 - 9 pm Dave 508-883-7959 Tiverton Rod & Gun Club BLACK POWDER Wednesdays 7 - 9:30 pm 1529 Fish Road Rod & Gun Club of New Bedford Sundays 10 am - dusk Tiverton, RI North Hixville Road Woburn Sportsmen’s Association John 508-675-2946 North Dartmouth, MA 155 Middlesex Turnpike 2nd & 4th Monday 7 pm: Big Bore Paul 508-993-2117 Bedford, MA Pistol Shoot Thursdays 7-9 pm blackpowder@woburnsports 3rd Saturday 1 pm: Blacklight Pistol Monument Beach Sportsmen Club men.com Hanson Rod & Gun Club Dump Road off MacArthur Blvd Sundays 8 am - 12 pm Davis Road, off Elm Street Monument Beach, MA Leominster Sportsmen’s Assoc.

Hanson, MA

Page 32

The

Outdoor Message

Bill 781-585-8225 Tuesdays: Pistol League Cape Ann Sportsmen’s Club 57 Cherry Street Gloucester, MA 978-283-0304 Tuesdays 8-10 pm: .22 NMC League Mass. Rifle Association 290R Salem Street Woburn, MA Steve 781-862-6516 Wednesdays 8 pm: .22 Pistol League Hopkinton Sportsmens Assoc.

95 Lumber Street Hopkinton, MA Mark 508-529-4207 2nd Sunday: Action Pistol Fall River Rod & Gun Club Sanford Road Westport, MA Bob 508-995-7768

3rd Saturday 9 am Barre Sportsman’s Club 221 Spring Hill Road Barre, MA Bert 508-413-6529

COWBOY SHOOTS

Saturdays 9 am - noon Woburn Sportsmen’s Association 155 Middlesex Turnpike Bedford, MA blackpowder@woburnsportsmen.com

HIGH POWER RIFLE

Sundays 10 am Woburn Sportsmen’s Association 155 Middlesex Turnpike Bedford, MA highpower@woburnsportsmen.com (continued on page 34)

March 2012

FITCHBURG SPORTSMEN’S CLUB

289 Rindge State Road (route #119) in Ashburnham, Massachusetts

Dear Fellow Sportsmen, Our monthly meeting was held on February 6, 2012. President Philip A. Madonia III welcomed all and opened the meeting at 7:35 PM with a moment of silence for our deceased members and fallen Armed Forces members followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Pres. Madonia said that Dennis Ring volunteered to head up the Election Committee for tonight’s elections. Ballots were handed out to all members attending.

The minutes of the January meeting were read and a motion was made to amend to correct what was reported about the Lead sinkers and not the jigs which will be restated by John Root later in the minutes of this meeting. A motion was made to accept the minutes as amended, seconded and passed.

Correspondence

A letter from Rodney Conrad, Mass Licensed Firearms instructor was received and Pres. Madonia said that those interested in getting instruction may contact him.

An email from GOAL was received alerting us to a hearing at the State House on S661 “An Act Relative to the Common Defense” on Tuesday, February 7th by the Joint Committee on the Judiciary in Room B-1. Please contact your legislator and the committee members even after the hearing. It is a good bill introduced by Sen. Brewer which will protect those who use deadly force in their or others defense against lawsuits.

Pres. Madonia reported on the status of our Scholarship fund and said that even though we are granting funds to those who are pursuing a field of study in conservation and related endeavors, there are scholarships available through The Greater Worcester Foundation in other fields such as arts, sciences, theater, etc.

High School Seniors and others must submit applications by March 19th, references from Guidance Counselors and transcripts must be included. Scholarship amounts range from $250.00 to $5000.00.

There is no fee for applying, we have $26,358.00 with fees not drawn, we made 2.5% on the fund for the year.

New Members

Pres. Randy A. Nichols read the applications of David Celuzza, William J. Reynolds, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Johnny Dixon IV, William M. & Cheryl A. Cook II, Raphael Solomito, Michael D. Brown, Conrad St. Thomas, Larry Myers, James Lavoie, Brandon Lavoie, John Femino and Rodney Bilodeau. A motion was made to accept into membership subject to final approval by the Directors. Once accepted, we hope that you will participate in our workdays and activities.

Welcome to the club.

Treasurer’s Report

The Secretary read the report. The Treasurer’s report was accepted as read.

House & Grounds

Dennis Ring reported that there were problems with the boiler as it was not working, the blower was not working properly and the fresh air intake was iced up. The malfunction caused the fire alarm to go off. The problem will be investigated and a remedy found to correct it.

March 2012

Fish & Game

http://www.fitchburgsportsmensclub.org/

Leo Ross reported the ice was 8” thick and the derby is a go. He requested help in registering the fishermen.

Kitchen

The Secretary reported that Ken Rehler would have Breakfast in the morning and around 10:30 AM to noon he would have hot dogs, hamburgers and chili.

Old Business

Youth Turkey Hunt, Esther Erickson had some flyers on the program. The program is open to youth hunters between the ages of 12 and 17 who have completed Basic Hunter Education.

A Firearms Identification Card (FID) and hunting license is required for all young adults between the ages of 15 to 17. Young adults 12 to 14 years of age do not need a hunting license or FID card. The program consists of a one-day seminar in which the basics of turkey hunting and safety will be reviewed with participants and a one day mentored turkey hunt. Interested participants should visit the Mass Div of Fisheries and Wildlife website for information on the program and to download the required forms. <www. mass.gov/dfw/education/yath/yath_home. htm>. To sign up please contact Mike Rhodes at 978-386-5670 or Esther Erickson at 978-827-3340.

A Hunter Education class will be held at the club on April 10, 12, 14 & 17th.

Evenings 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, Saturday will be all day. The hunt will be held on April 28th. Please contact Esther to register 978-827-3340.

Dues are due and Banquet tickets are available. Please send them in as time is getting short.

New Business

Our next event will be our Annual Banquet, it’s a great time to meet your fellow members and our elected officials.

Good and Welfare

John Root provided the Secretary with the Mass Wildlife News 12/16/2011 which reminded all freshwater fishermen that the ban on LEAD SINKERS and JIGS took effect on January 1, 2012. A sinker is defined as any sinker or weight made from lead that weighs less than 1 ounce. A “lead Jig” is defined as any lead weighted hook weighing less than 1 ounce. Many alternatives such as steel and tin may be used. Please refer to <www.mass.gov/ masswildlife>. This ban came about as lead ingestion by Loons is the single largest cause of mortality in fresh water in New England. The results of veterinarians at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine found that 44% of adult Loons died as a result of lead poisoning. For more indepth info get on their website. The preceeding is a amendment to the January minutes. John was kind to provide me with the info so every fisherman is informed.

Another matter of concern is to advise those who use poisons for rodent control that these poisons are killing hawks and owls. Pellets are ingested by the rodents and the hawks and owls that prey on them are being killed by the poison. A study of red-tailed hawks by Tufts Veterinarians revealed that 80% including great horned owls have rodent poison anticoagulants in their systems. We need to keep our raptor population from being decimated. Please

use other means to control rodents (sprung traps, etc.). For more info, go to the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, Mark Blazis Outdoors, published Jan 31, 2012.

Our next meeting will be at Slattery’s in Fitchburg on Monday, March 5th, 2012. I will be there at 4:30 PM for those who have reservations but have not paid.

The meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM. Respectfully Submitted George F. LeBlanc Yours in Sportsmanship

Schedule of Events

Monday, March 5, 2012, Annual Banquet at Slattery’s, 6 PM Social Hour, Dinner at 7 PM Thursday, March 8th, 6 PM Range Orientation Monday, March 12th, 6 PM Range Orientation Monday, March 12th, 7 PM Director’s Meeting Sunday, March 18th at 1 PM Range Orientation Monday, April 2nd, 6 PM Range Orientation Monday, April 2nd, 7:30 PM Membership meeting Monday, April 9th at 6 PM Range Orientation Sunday, April 15th at 1 PM Range Orientation Thursday, April 19th at 6 PM Range Orientation Sunday, April 29th Adult members Fishing Derby Sunday, April 29th “300” Drawing at 1 PM ★

FITCHBURG SPORTSMEN’S CLUB, INC. P.O. Box 594 - Fitchburg, MA 01420 2012 Dues Renewal Form

NAME: ________________________________________ FSC Mbr. # _ _ _ _ _ _

The election results were announced by Dennis Ring, President- Philip A. Madonia III, Vice President- Randy A. Nichols, Treasurer- James J. Belliveau, Secretary- George F. LeBlanc, DirectorsKevin T. Brooke, Richard E. Lampula, Leo B. Ross and Kenneth C. Rehler. A motion was made to destroy the ballots, seconded and passed.

Raffles- Member #L74, Dana Parkhurst was present for the attendance prize. Due to the fact that there was no 50/50 drawing, the prize will be $50.00 for the next meeting.

ADDRESS: ____________________________________ DOB: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ CITY/STATE/ZIP: _____________________________ PHONE: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AMOUNT ENCLOSED: $ ___________

E-Mail: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Junior Member (15-17 years Old) - $27.50 Senior Member (65 and Older) - $36.00 Regular Member (18 - 64 years) - $55.00 Family Membership - $65.00 Senior Family Membership - $46.00 # of “300 Drawing” Tickets ______ x $10.00 each = _________ Amt. enclosed for tickets.

138th Annual Banquet

Slattery's Restaurant & Bar, 106 Lunenburg St. (enter via Culley St) - Fitchburg, MA 01420 March 5, 2012 at 6:00 pm. Members with UNPAID reservations must pay at 5 PM.

Name:________________________________________ Telephone:______________________ Appetizers: Cheese & crackers, Cup of homemade soup, Tossed garden salad Meal:* Baked Haddock ___________ Baked, stuffed breast of chicken ___________ Yankee Pot Roast ___________ TOTAL DINNERS @ $20.00 each = ___________ Dessert - TBA * All entrees are served with mashed potatoes, vegetables, crusty rolls, coffee, tea, decaf available. All reservations must be received no later than Monday, February 27, 2012. Please call the Secretary for reservations. In order to expedite persons unpaid, please show up between 5 and 5:30 pm. This will allow the Secretary to get set up for the Banquet. Arrangements may be made to pay prior by contacting the Secretary at 978-342-5928.

Please return form and payment by mail, or call the secretary at 978-342-5928. Deadline March 1, 2012 Fitchburg Sportsmen's Club, P.O. Box 594, Fitchburg, MA 01420 The

Outdoor Message

Page 33

The Sportsman’s Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shooting Practices

(continued from page 32)

1st Saturday 9 am, 3rd Sunday 1 pm: CMP Hanson Rod & Gun Club Davis Road, off Elm Street Hanson, MA 781-293-9872 Sundays 9 am - noon: 20 shots offhand any rifle, any sights/scope, 100 yards Leominster Sportsmen’s Assoc.

1455 Elm Street Leominster, MA oleary5150@comcast.net 4th Sunday 1 pm: DCM Shoots Maspenock Rod & Gun Club McGill Lane, Milford, MA Dave 508-478-6211

Old Colony Sportsmen’s Assoc.

Forest Street Pembroke, MA George 781-871-0003 Sundays 5 pm: Smallbore Rifle Lenox Sportsmen’s Club 258 New Lenox Road Lenox, MA Jeff 413-528-1343 Sundays 6 - 9 pm: Smallbore Rifle Nenameseck Sportsman’s Club Bacon Road Palmer, MA Dick 413-283-3920 Junior High Power Rifle Reading Rifle and Revolver Club Haverhill Street Reading, MA Bob 978-474-0695 Duane duaneb1953@yahoo.com Beginner & Advanced Programs Mass Rifle Association 290R Salem Street Woburn, MA Maureen mrmttrcktt@aol.com 781-933-9020

Thursdays 10 am - 1 pm Hopkinton Sportsmen’s Assoc.

95 Lumber Street Hopkinton, MA Chaulk 508-842-6208 wnigro@monarchspring.com Trap & Skeet: Sundays 1 - 4 pm, Thursdays 6 - 9 pm Southborough Rod & Gun Club 254 Fruit Street Hopkinton, MA Mike 508-879-9625 jmpearson@rcn.com Skeet: Sundays 9 am - 1 pm, Tuesdays & Thursdays 7 - 9:30 pm Trap: Sundays 9 am - Noon Riverside Gun Club 16 Wilkins Road JUNIOR Hudson, MA www.riversidegc.org Mondays 6 - 9 pm: Junior Rifle Trap: Sundays 10 am, Wednesdays 5 Saturdays 7:30 am-12:30 pm: Junior pm, Fridays 9 am, Saturday Noon Pistol Lawrence Rod & Gun Club Woburn Sportsmen’s Assoc.

Webster Street 155 Middlesex Turnpike Lawrence, MA Bedford, MA John 978-470-0327 jrrifle@woburnsportsmen.com Trap: Tuesdays 9 am - 12 pm jrpistol@woburnsportsmen.com PRACTICAL SHOOTS Skeet: Thursdays 9 am - 12 pm Mondays 6 pm: Smallbore Rifle Trap & Skeet: Sundays 9 am - 1 pm, Hopkinton Sportsmens Association 1st & 3rd Monday 7:30 - 10 pm: TRAP & SKEET Thursdays 6 - 10 pm, Saturdays 12 - 4 Lumber Street IDPA Practice pm Hopkinton, MA Harvard Sportsmen’s Club Trap: Sundays 9 - 11 am North Leominster Rod & Gun Club Kris 508-254-6221 or 508-881-3868 Littleton County Road Nashoba Sportsman's Club, Inc. Lancaster Avenue Mondays 7 - 9 pm: Junior Rifle Harvard, MA 924 Main Street Lunenburg, MA Reading Rifle & Revolver www.harvardsportsmensclub.com Acton, MA 978-840-6322 Haverhill Street Trap: Tuesdays 6 pm Trap & Skeet: Sundays 9 am - 12 pm Reading, MA SMALLBORE Fitchburg Sportsmen’s Club Leominster Sportsmen’s Association Bob 781-246-4860 Route 119 Tuesdays 5 pm - dark: .22 Rimfire 1455 Elm Street Tuesdays 7 - 9 pm: Smallbore Rifle Ashburnham, MA Benchrest Rifle Leominster, MA Harvard Sportsmen’s Club Esther 978-827-3340 Lee Sportsmen’s Association Trap, Skeet, Modern Skeet, Five Stand: 250 Littleton County Road Trap 565 Fairview Street Sundays 11:30 am - 4 pm Harvard, MA Barre Sportsman’s Club Lee, MA Trap, Skeet, Modern Skeet: Saturdays 978-772-6534 or rjjr@charter.net 221 Spring Hill Road Pete 413-274-1623 11 am - 3 pm Tuesdays 7 pm: Sporter Air Rifle Barre, MA pviale@frpaper.com Ludlow Fish & Game Club Fridays 7 pm: Smallbore Rifle Mike 508-867-8867 Barre Sportsman’s Club Sportsman Road Maspenock Rod & Gun Club Trap: Saturdays & Sundays 10 am 221 Spring Hill Road Ludlow, MA McGill Lane noon Barre, MA Marshall 413-585-8662 Milford, MA Woburn Sportsmen’s Association Tony 978-355-4474 Trap: Sundays 1 - 4 pm Dave 508-243-1521 155 Middlesex Turnpike Mondays 7 pm, Wednesdays 5:30 pm: Fin Fur & Feather Club Wednesdays 6 pm: Smallbore Rifle MA Bedford, 22LR Pistol League 35 Crystal Springs Road Hanson Rod & Gun Club Bob 781-275-7323 Manville Sportsmen's Rod & Gun Club Mattapoisett, MA Davis Road, off Elm Street trap@woburnsportsmen.com 250 High Street 508-758-6790 Hanson, MA Trap: Sundays 9 am 1 pm Manville, RI Trap: Mondays 5 - 9 pm Rick 781-293-6185 Swift River Sportsman’s Club msrandgc@gmail.com Methuen Rod & Gun Club Wednesdays: Smallbore Rifle 79 Moore Road 240 Tyler Street Ames Rifle & Pistol Club Belchertown, MA SPORTING CLAYS Methuen, MA 110A Canton Street Trap & Skeet: Sundays 1 pm; Every Day 9 am - Dusk Eli 978-683-3261 North Easton, MA Wednesdays 9 am - Noon Peace Dale Shooting Preserve Trap: Sundays 10 am; Wednesdays 6 Bob 508-238-8563 Lowell Sportsmen’s Club Peace Dale, RI pm Wednesdays: Smallbore Rifle 50 Swain Road 401-789-3730 Maspenock Rod & Gun Club Sagamore Rifle Club Chelmsford. MA Saturdays & Sundays 1 - 4 pm 1 McGill Lane Sagamore, MA president@lowellsc.org Independent Sportsmen Club Milford, MA Doug 508-775-1500 Sundays 10 am - 2 pm Mirimichi Road L.A. lajtax@comcast.net Wednesdays 5 - 9 pm: Smallbore Rifle Standish Sportsman's Association Foxboro, MA Saturdays and Sundays 12 - 3:30 pm Taunton Rifle & Pistol Club Off Burr Lane Saturdays 9:30 am - 1 pm Fin, Fur & Feather Club 460 Britannia Street East Bridgewater, MA Western Mass Bird Dog Club 100 Larch Road Taunton, MA John 508-378-7696 87 Charles Farnum Road Millis, MA Sid 774-473-7934 Trap & Skeet: Sundays 12:30 pm Granville, MA 508-376-2977 Wednesdays: Junior Indoor Air Rifle Franklin County League Jim 413-538-8941 Trap & Skeet: Sundays 10 am - 2 pm Saturdays: Junior Indoor Archery 721 River Road Saturdays Noon - 5 pm Skeet: Wednesdays until 1 pm Manville Sportsmen's Rod & Gun Club East Deerfield, MA Fall River Rod & Gun Club Springfield Sportsmen's Club 250 High Street John 413-863-8068 Sanford Road Woodhill Road Manville, RI Trap, Skeet, 5 Stand: Saturdays & Westport, MA Monson, MA msrandgc@gmail.com Sundays 1 - 4 pm; Wednesdays 5 - 8 508-673-4535 Skeet field 413-267-9230 Saturdays: Smallbore Rifle pm Al 413-222-8322 Independent Sportsmen Club Trap: Sundays 9 am; Thursdays 3 pm; Mirimichi Road Saturdays 10 am List your club events free of charge in Foxboro, MA Monument Beach Sportsmens Club Trap: Sundays 1 - 4 pm The Sportsman’s Calendar!

Dump Road off MacArthur Blvd Georgetown Fish & Game Club Monument Beach, MA Lake Avenue Event Category: Club 508-759-5653 Georgetown, MA Trap, Skeet & Wobble Skeet: Saturdays ❑ Education & Training Mike 978-463-9970 & Sundays 1 pm Trap: Sundays 9 am - 12 pm ❑ Competitive Events Angle Tree Stone Rod & Gun Club Cape Ann Sportsmen’s Club 57 Kelly Boulevard 57 Cherry Street ❑ Informal shooting & practices North Attleboro, MA Gloucester, MA Date of Event: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Joe 508-699-6730 978-283-0304 Trap: Wednesdays 7 pm capeannsportsmansclub.org Event Description: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ North Brookfield Sportsmens Club Trap: Sundays 1 - 4 pm; Tuesdays Event Location: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 6:30 - 9 pm; Wednesdays 6:30 - 9 pm 20 Boynton Road North Brookfield, MA _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Women Only Trap: 2nd Saturday 1 - 4 508-867-9216 pm Trap: Sundays 9:30 am - 1 pm; Contact Person, Phone, Email: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Hanson Rod & Gun Club Fridays 12 - 3 pm ______________________________ Davis Road Cape Cod Fish & Game Hanson, MA Depot Street Email: editor@theoutdoormessage.com 781-293-9872 North Harwich, MA Mail: The Sportsman’s Calendar PO Box 567, Northborough, MA 01532 Trap, Skeet, 5-Stand: Sundays 9:30 Peter 508-430-1072 Fax: 603-642-4327 am - 2 pm; Tuesdays 6:30 - 9 pm;

Page 34

Thursdays 5:30 pm Barre Sportsman’s Club 221 Spring Hill Road Barre, MA Randy 978-632-8708 Sundays 9 am - 12 pm Cape Ann Sportsmen’s Club 57 Cherry Street Gloucester, MA 978-283-0304 capeannsportsmansclub.org Sundays 9:30 am - 2 pm; Tuesdays 6:30 - 9 pm Hopkinton Sportsmen's Assoc.

95 Lumber Street Hopkinton, MA Chalk 508-842-6208 or wnigro@monarchspring.com Sundays 1 - 4 pm Fin, Fur & Feather 35 Crystal Spring Road Mattapoisett, MA 508-758-6790 Sundays 10 am - 2 pm Springfield Sportsmen's Club Woodhill Road Monson, MA Al 413-222-8322

The

Outdoor Message

Trap & Skeet: Saturdays & Sundays 10 am - 2 pm; Wednesdays 10 am noon 5-Stand & Sporting Clays: Wednesdays 10 am - noon; Saturdays 10 am - 1 pm Old Colony Sportsmen’s Assoc.

159 Forest Street Pembroke, MA Dick 781-585-1875 Trap: Thursdays 6 - 9 pm Nimrod League of Holden Coal Kiln Road Princeton, MA www.nimrodleague.org Sundays 10 am Sippican Rod & Gun Club 215 Dexter Lane Rochester, MA Paul 508-763-4226 Skeet: Sundays 11 am; Wednesdays 5 pm Scituate Rod & Gun Club Rte 3A Scituate, MA 781-545-1510 secretary@scituaterg.com Trap & Skeet: Sundays 1 - 3 pm; Thursdays 6 - 9 pm; Saturdays 1 - 3 pm Easthampton Fish & Game Rt 10, College Highway Southampton, MA 413-527-9340 Skeet: Sundays 9 am - Noon; Tuesdays & Thursdays 5 - 8 pm Stockbridge Sportsmen Club Route 102 Stockbridge, MA Gary 413-298-3623 Paul 413-528-0859 Trap: Sundays 9 am - 1 pm; Wednesdays 6 pm Townsend Rod & Gun Club Emery Road Townsend, MA Jim 978-597-9121 Trap: Thursdays 6 pm - dusk Trap & 5 Stand: Sundays 9 am - 1 pm Skeet & 5 Stand: Tuesdays 6 pm dusk Walpole Sportsmen’s Association Lincoln Road Walpole, MA 508-668-6919 Trap: Sundays 1 - 4 pm Westford Sportsmen’s Club West Street Westford, MA Tom 978-692-4974 Sundays 12 - 4 pm; Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 10 am - 4 pm; Wednesdays 7 - 9 pm Fall River Rod & Gun Club Sanford Road Westport, MA 508-673-4635 Trap: Thursdays 7 pm Wrentham Sportsmen’s Assoc.

7 Madison Street Wrentham, MA Dave 508-883-7959 Trap: Wednesdays 6 - 9 pm Saturdays 10 am - 2 pm Skeet: Saturday & Sunday 12 - 4 pm Tuesday & Thursday 6 - 10 pm Wallum Lake Rod Gun Club 200 Brook Road Harrisville, RI 401-568-7171 or 401-568-5640 Trap: Sundays 9:30 am; Wednesdays 5:30 pm Manville Sportsmen's Rod & Gun Club 250 High Street Manville, RI msrgc.com Trap: Sundays 10 am - 1 pm; Saturdays 12 - 2 pm Smithfield Sportsman's Club Walter Carey Road, Off Route 5 Smithfield, RI Dave 401-949-1525 Trap: Sundays 10 am - 12 noon; Thursdays 4 - 7 pm Tiverton Rod & Gun Club 1529 Fish Road Tiverton, RI Clubhouse 401-624-3959 ★

March 2012

MASPENOCK ROD & GUN CLUB

P.O. Box 42 - McGill Lane - Milford, Mass. 01757 www.MaspenockRodandGun.org January 30, 2012. After the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for our public servants, members of the armed services and deceased member William Kimball, the meeting was called to order by President Dick Zontini. There were 70 members in attendance. There were 6 new members voted in. Welcome to Maspenock Paul Beggs, Gino Bravo, Chris Caffrey, John DiDomenici, Nicole Mainini and Peter Morriss.

There was no Treasurer’s report.

Financial Secretary

Leo O’Rourke reported that there are 305 regular members, 79 life time members, 14 spousal, 14 junior rifle and 5 juniors, 6 students and 6 military. The club had a 90% retention rate this year.

Recording Secretary

Minutes were sent to The Outdoor Message. A complete printed copy of the November minutes was made available.

Directors

Dennis Dorr gave the directors report.

Dennis reported that the directors discussed safety issues including shooting after dark and an archery work party in May. Other topics will be discussed by the committees.

Trap

Joe Aiken reported that the truck trailer was delivered. They are discussing a pad to place it on. This will be done in the spring. The trap committee has put together a schedule. New members may use their two free rounds either on Wednesdays, 6:00-9:00 PM, or on Sundays, 9:00 AM to whenever.

There were 200 hundred rounds shot in January. This is down a little. Leo O’Rourke thanked L.A. for all he has done to bring the trap program to where it is now.

Structure and Grounds

Tony Manbucca noted that a volunteer is needed to replace the ceiling tiles over the bar.

Rifle Range

Dave Kirschner reported that there are two areas left to be completed. The landscaping will be finished in the spring.

The committee is working on a draft for the blue sky barrier. They are still working within the budget. The extensive drainage project is not included in the budget.

Dave noted that the fundraiser netted more that they hoped for. There was 100 hours of time donated by members and their families. Plaques were made

recognizing donators.

There is no lighting yet on the outdoor range so shooting is not permitted after dusk. Once lighting is done then the hours will be 9 AM to 9 PM. ALL RANGES WILL BE CLOSED ON 3/10/2012 FOR THE PINEWOOD DERBY.

Junior Rifle

Manny reported that the juniors are doing quite a bit of shooting. They have been shooting air rifle to prepare for upcoming matches. The juniors are doing very well in the league. They are very motivated.

The juniors went to Reading for National match air rifle training. They had a lot of fun and did well. On their 3rd match the team scored 1011.

Congratulations juniors! Your coaches and instructors are very proud of you!

Indoor Pistol Range/ Outdoor Pistol

The caption is Brieanna and Emily Croteau reciting the Pledge of Allegiance with Director Lloyd Currie.

Leo reported that there is not a lot of activity on the outdoor range right now. It will resume in February. They will address the range layout and shelter at the next meeting.

Charlie noted that the pistol league is still shooting on Wednesday nights. They need more members. All shooters of all levels are invited to participate. The team is still looking for a win.

Fish and Game

Dewie is looking for a volunteer to take down some trees around the pond.

Archery

Archery is still looking for someone to chair a committee. Once a committee is established, organized shoots can be scheduled. Anyone interested should contact one of the directors. Help is needed to maintain the integrity of the range.

Entertainment

Lloyd reported that there will be 2 events.

On 3/24 there will be a family style meal open to the public. The cost is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12. On April 28th there will be a buffet style Porketta dinner. The cost will be $20 per person. There was a discussion regarding the increase in the bar revenue.

Worcester County League

L.A. reported that the last meeting was held at Singletary on January 20th. Guest speakers were Bill Davis and Ian Farley.

They were updated on the wood duck project and the Wachusett Reservoir creel

Reliant Mortgage Company LLC Brian J Hazard

VP Senior Mortgage Consultant Call 401-692-1097 or 508-395-1559 Fax: 419-793-1377 Email: brianh@reliantloan.com Web site: www.reliantloan.com/brianh

survey. The preliminary muzzle loader count was 372 deer. There is a mute swan disease that has claimed the lives of 12 swans. They are questioning an avian flu.

A deer biologist has been hired. He will be meeting with the league in the future.

A reminder was made that all licenses are being sold exclusively online in 2012.

The next meeting will be held at the Century Sportsmen’s Club in Auburn.

Anyone interested in being an alternate delegate should contact L.A. L.A. reported that the league sends 3 juniors to conservation camp every year.

L.A. had application available.

Old Business

Elections were held. Any member running for director was given an opportunity to speak to the membership. Dennis Dorr, Dewie Mann and Lloyd Currie were reelected. Leo O’Rourke was reelected as financial secretary and Michelle St.Gelais was reelected as recording secretary. The directors appointed Dick Zontini as

The

Lic #s: MA MLO 9437, RI 9437, CT 9437

March 2012

The

Outdoor Message

New Business

Member Don Gordon informed the membership that there will be a Ducks Unlimited Banquet in February.

Good Of The Club

A discussion was brought up about ATV use on club grounds. There is no ATV use allowed.

Food was provided by Bob Clemente, owner of Purchase Street Market, after the meeting. Thank you, Bob. Motion was make to pay the billsApproved Motion to adjourn- Approved at 8:10 Respectfully submitted, Michelle St.Gelais ★

Outdoor Message CLASSIFIEDS

For Sale: Bench Stock-Duplicator.

New, unpacked motor, Spare parts, Weight about 70lb. Ask $300. Please call 508-904-4044 or email to swampls@hotmail.com for photos and info.

Place orders by 3/20/12 for pre-season discounts on wood canoes & Rokon 2wheel drive motorcycles. Also have mopeds, scooters, dirt bikes, atv’s and electric bicycles. Claude's Cycles. 508543-0490. www.claudescycles.com BOW CLEARANCE - 40% off MSRP on many new, non-current Top Model Bows from various manufacturers. See Photos, Descriptions, Prices on website www.emeryloiselle.com ERYLEEN ARCHERY 781-272-0244. Also MATHEWS dealer.

Wanted!!

Military items for educational purposes and collection.

“Where Care Concern and Knowledge Make the Difference”

president and Buddy Mainini as Vice President. Congratulations to all.

Uniforms, swords, hats, medals, bayonets, flight jackets, helmets, flags.

Anything - any country. Civil War, Spanish American War, World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam.

Longtime Historian and Collector.

Also buying old guns and gun parts, old ammo and other related items.

Paying cash, I buy it all! Call Randall 978-772-2563 R.T. Chagnon Construction serving Bristol and Plymouth counties.

Additions, in law apartments, complete interior and exterior remodeling and home improvement. Licensed and insured. www.RTChagnon.com Call Rich at 774-263-7638 U.S. SILVER DOLLARS WANTED. Paying $25 each. Also buying all other coins. Higher pay than coin shops or mall buyers. Call Lin at 781-956-8891.

CLASSIFIED RATES: $4.00 per insertion for 30 words or less. $1 for each additional group of 10 words or less.

Advance payment required. Send check, payable to The Outdoor Message, to PO Box 567, Northborough MA 01532.

Page 35

AYER GUN & SPORTSMEN'S CLUB

Next Meeting March 1st at 7:30 PM.

255 Snake Hill Road - Ayer, MA 01432 978-772-9748 Email: ayergsc@verizon.net Website: http://www.ayergsc.vzwebsites.com/

House

February Meeting Summary

• Held their first meeting. Had some good discussion and anticipate good participation from the team.

The meeting was held on February 2nd at 7:30 PM. There were 22 members present. We had a moment of silence in honor of all service members and our departed members.

The reading of the Secretary’s minutes for the January meeting was waived and the minutes were accepted as written.

The Treasurer was not present and the reading of the minutes was postponed to next meeting.

• Pistol backstops replaced and repaired with (2) 4x8 sheets of plywood. New member Ian Sears helped with this repair.

• Trap Bunker: A new starter cord was installed on the generator. Generator was then started and ran for about 10 minutes.

The generator still needs to come out of the bunker for the winter.

• Archery: Tree stand installed with the help of Norm Davin and Len Stotzky. The ladder has a removable bottom section which is presently stored in the office.

• Dan D’Amato will be running another Basic Pistol Safety course on February 25th and March 24th.

• Thanks to all who helped out with the outdoor range and the archery range.

Old Business

• We are waiting for the figure for the Sliding doors from the House.

• There was some discussion around the no smoking policy. When there is a function in the building there is no smoking inside. More discussion ensued.

New Business

• Don and Roger looked into the costs of our current trash pickup and compared it to costs of other companies. Provided some data to the House.

• Scott Russell met with the BOD to discuss some of his plans for the fishing derbies and some fund raising ideas for the ARC and Veteran’s derby as well as his thoughts around sponsoring a Children’s Fishing Derby.

President - Ernie Johnson DirectorsVice President - Buddy Shorey Don Anderson- Chair Treasurer - CJ Moore Brent Routhier, Gary Secretary - Darlene Johnson Coke, Roger McPadden, Sergeant of Arms - Walter Peeler Norman Reynolds, Justin Field Captain - Barry Schwarzel Harvey, Miles Donell

Range & Archery

Youth

involved -- members’ kids as well as community kids. He would like to give them free poles, gift bags, etc. He shared his ideas about this as well as his plans around fund raising for this event along with the ARC derby and the Veteran’s fishing derby

News

We are now on Facebook; visit us!

The Annual Easter Egg Hunt open to kids from 0 to 12 is scheduled for April 1st.

To view the full meeting minutes look on the back bulletin board at the club or check your email.

Upcoming Events

ST PATRICK’S DAY DINNER CELEB. Saturday, March 17th

FIREARMS SAFETY CLASSES: Saturday, March 24th 8 AM - 5 PM SPRING MEAT RAFFLE: Friday, March 30th 7 PM

St Patty’s Day Corned Beef and Cabbage

This annual event is scheduled for March 17th at 6 PM. The cost is $10.00, open to the public. This event is not to be missed ask anyone who has attended in the past.

We have received nothing but praises for the great cooking. ★

Fish & Ponds

Scott Russell - Gave Dates for the Fishing Derbies • He would like to get kids more

Precision Sheet Metal Fabrication Prototype l Production l Engineering l Consulting Judy Candage

jcandage@cericfab.com www.cericfab.com

70 Nemco Way Ayer, MA 01432 T: 978.772.9034 F: 978.772.3012

The Sportsman’s Calendar . . .Competitive Shooting Matches and Special Shooting Events

AIR RIFLE

155 Middlesex Turnpike Monson, MA Bedford, MA 413-267-9652 Mar 3: Open Freedom Matches blackpowder@woburnsportsmen.com 3rd Sunday, 1 pm Mar 24: 2012 Massachusetts Civiliam Georgetown Fish & Game Club COWBOY Marksmanshp Program 3P Air Rifle Lake Avenue Junior Olympic Qualifier Wednesday evenings, Saturdays 9 am Georgetown, MA Reading Rifle & Revolver - 12: Black Powder Cowboy Shooting Craig 508-265-2255 Haverhill Street Woburn Sportsmen’s Association 3rd Saturday, 10 am Reading, MA 155 Middlesex Turnpike Lawrence Rod & Gun Club Maureen 978-257-0406 Bedford, MA Webster Street blackpowder@woburnsportsmen.com Lawrence, MA ARCHERY Monthly: Cowboy Fast Draw practice Art 978-687-9504 ext 1 and matches Wednesdays: 3D Fun Shoots PRACTICAL SHOOTS Groveland, MA Woburn Sportsmen’s Association 617-921-7942 155 Middlesex Turnpike Apr 28, May 12: RI Police Pistol johnnybourbon@comcast.net Bedford, MA Combat League archery@woburnsportsmen.com Scituate, RI PIN & PLATE SHOOTS Wednesdays 6 pm: Indoor Paper George 401-639-8573 League 1st Sunday gpesare7@hotmail.com Manville Sportsmen's Rod & Gun Club Cape Ann Sportsmen’s Club 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 4th Saturdays: 250 High Street 57 Cherry Street IDPA League Club Matches Manville, RI Gloucester, MA S&W Shooting Sports Center msrgc.com 978-283-0304 Springfield, MA www.capeannsportsmansclub.org 413-846-6400 BLACK POWDER 1st Sunday 4th Sunday Springfield Sportsman’s Club Rod & Gun Club of New Bedford Sundays 10 am - dusk: Black Powder 215 Wood Hill Road North Hixville Road Woburn Sportsmen’s Association

Page 36

The

Outdoor Message

North Dartmouth, MA Dave 508-984-9589 4th Sunday 8:45 am: IDPA Matches Nenameseck Sportsman’s Club Bacon Road Palmer, MA Norm 413-967-3797 www.nenameseck.com/idpa

SMALLBORE

Pelham, NH 603-673-6105 www.neshooters.com Apr 28-29: Gun and Sportsmens Show Monument Beach Sportsmens Club 199 MacArthur Boulevard Bourne, MA Doug 508-367-1665 tables still available!

Feb 4, Mar 3: Open Freedom Matches SPORTING CLAYS Reading Rifle & Revolver Haverhill Street Sundays 10 am, Wednesdays at noon: Reading, MA Winter League Maureen 978-257-0406 Petersham Gun Club 159 Nelson Road SPECIAL EVENTS & Petersham, MA petershamgunclub12@gmail.com SHOWS Parker win59pe@hughes.net Apr 22, May 6, May 20: Biathlon practice TRAP Harvard Sportsmens Club Wednesdays: Greater Lowell Trap Littleton County Road League Harvard, MA Woburn Sportsmen’s Association Chris chris@bikewaysource.com 155 Middlesex Turnpike Apr 20-22: 5th Annual Summit preBedford, MA sented by Neshooters, LLC trap@woburnsportsmen.com ★ Pelham Fish & Game Club

March 2012