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GOAL News
Print
Edition
The Official Monthly Publication of Gun Owners’ Action League - Protecting Your Freedom Since 1975
April 2015 Dedicated to Education, Safety, Training, and Support of Massachusetts Firearms Owners
GOAL Takes On Lowell
GOAL Leading Lowell Residents In Effort To Restore Rights
GOAL Director at Large Bettina
Romberg and approximately
50 concerned citizens stand up
against rights restriction at Lowell
City Council Meeting.
This report will go to the City Manager and the Mayor, after which it
will likely go to the floor of the City
Council. The Clerk reported that he
has no idea how long this will take.
February 25, 2015
If there is no report after 30 days,
GOAL will ask Lowell residents to
contact city hall and ask why there
is a delay. We will keep you up to
date regarding this.
Northborough, MA. 01532
On Tuesday night, GOAL Director at Large Bettina Romberg was
joined by approximately 50 Lowell
residents at City Hall where they
voiced their displeasure over the
Police Chief’s arbitrary restriction
on Licenses to Carry in Lowell.
Lowell Update:
The City of Lowell’s Restrictive Firearm Licensing Policy should be repealed because:
Excepting law enforcement, Lowell residents are only permitted to
lawfully carry a concealed firearm
GOAL Director at Large Bettina Romberg (standing at podium) addresses the Lowell City Council
if they are a business owner who
regarding the city policy on rights restriction.
carries a large amount of cash or
have already been the victim of a myself and my loved ones?”
about the issues presented to them
violent crime.
and saw that further investigation
The issue was further illuminated
Nine residents spoke up and ex- that veterans, women, senior citi- into the policy was necessary. They
plained the problem in their own zens and many other groups are voted unanimously to look into the
terms, asking questions like, “Why restricted simply because they live city policy and have asked that the
Chief produce information, in the
do I have to be a victim of a violent in Lowell.
form of a report, to explain the recrime in order to be allowed to carstriction policy.
The
City
Council
was
concerned
ry a concealed firearm to defend
Cape Cod/Yarmouth Area *ALERT*
Yarmouth Residents, Please Attend Town
Meeting May 2, 2015
Residents of the town of Yarmouth have filed an anti rights
article regarding the discharge of firearms.
Should the article pass it could force the Bass River Club to shut
down, it could make the lawful discharge of firearms on private
property illegal and could ban hunting in most areas within the
town due to a change in zoning .
Yarmouth’s Annual Town Meeting is scheduled for Saturday,
May 02, 2015 at Mattacheese Middle School. GOAL is currently
communicating with local clubs towards a proactive solution
for stopping this article.
Also note: If you are not a registered voter in the Town of Yarmouth, the last day to register to vote in the Town Meeting will be
Friday, April 10, 2015. The Town Clerk’s Office will be open from
8:30 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.
•It is an outdated/antiquated
policy that pre-dates the recognition of the Second Amendment
as a civil right. Many such policies existed around the country
regarding other civil rights prior
to the nation maturing and accepting the rights of ALL lawful
citizens.
•Such antiquated policies treat
lawful citizens as if they are susContinued on page 11
GOAL Blasts SJC For Stun Gun Ruling
GOAL BLASTS SJC FOR STUN GUN cense to Carry or pepper spray.
RULING; WILL SEEK LEGISLATIVE
“We believe that the SJC erred in
SOLUTION
this decision and we are going to
take that to the Legislature. 42
March 6, 2015
other states in America have no
BOSTON- The Gun Owners’ Action
restrictions on stun guns and we
League of Massachusetts (GOAL)
want to see Massachusetts be the
today blasted the Massachusetts
43rd.”
Supreme Judicial Courts’ decision
not to find 2nd Amendment pro- More information:
tections for stun guns in the ComThe defendant in this case, Jaimonwealth. The case, Commonme Caetano, is 4’11” tall and had
wealth v. Caetano, challenged the
filed numerous restraining orders
constitutionality of the state’s ban
against her abusive boyfriend who
on the possession of a stun gun
had beaten her so badly in the past
after an Ashland woman was arthat she wound up in the hospital.
rested for having one for self-protection from an abusive partner.
It should also be noted that Caetano never actually used the stun
“It is ridiculous to limit the ways
gun, she merely showed it to the
someone can protect themselves
boyfriend in order to succesfully
- especially victims of abuse and
scare him off.
violence,” said Jim Wallace, Executive Director of the Gun Owners’ She had never committed a crime,
Action League. “We at GOAL want or hurt anyone with the stun gun,
to ensure that all means of self- she only wanted it to keep her boydefense are available in the Com- friend, who was ignoring restrainmonwealth and will seek a legisla- ing orders, from beating her.
tive remedy to this ruling.”
At this time Massachusetts is one
The Court ruled that the stun gun of only 5 states that requires a lipossessed by the defendant did cense to own/possess this type of
not fall under 2nd Amendment device.
protections and that there were
The MA supreme court was very
others methods of self-defense
available including obtaining a Li- Continued on page 6
Change Service Requested
Gun Owners’ Action League
PO Box 567
Northboro, MA. 01532
2
GOAL News Print Edition
April 2015
April 2015
GOAL News Print Edition
GOAL News
In This Issue:
GOAL News Print Edition
GOAL News - Print Edition is the Official Journal of Gun Owners’ Action
League. GOAL is the official state association of the National Rifle Association.
GOAL is dedicated to education, safety, training and support of Massachusetts Firearms Owners.
Since 1975, GOAL has represented the interests of the law abiding citizens of Massacusetts.
Gun Owners’ Action League Officials
GOAL Board of Directors
President: Jay Beard
1st Vice President: Steve Moysey
2nd Vice President: Mike Anthony
Secretary: Ellie Horwitz
Executive Director: Jim Wallace
Term up in 2016
Mark Jester
Ron Amidon
Richard Sinnott
Ernest W. Foster
Term up in 2017
Bruce Hall
Michael Concannon
Gary Wilk
Vacant Seat
Term up in 2018
Rickard Sitte
Bettina Romberg
Jim Finnerty
Keith Langer
From the Editor - Mike Sweeney
From The Executive Director
GOAL Shoot-B-Q
Scholastic Pistol Intro A Big Success
Special Offer From GOAL
Big Bang Raffle - Last Chance!
Club Events
Join GOAL - Information/Form
2015-2016 Legislation Chart
GOAL Training Schedule
Reloading Bench
Worcester Rifle & Pistol Club News
3
Page 4
Page 5
Page 10
Page 11
Page 12
Page 13
Page 13
Page 14
Page 15
Page 16
Page 17
Page 18
Join GOAL Protecting Your Freedom Begins Here!
Gun Owners’ Action League is the official state firearms association in
Massachusetts. We are an association of law-abiding citizens who believe in the basic right of firearms ownership for competition, recreation
and self-protection.
GOAL works hard to defend the Constitution and the Bill of Rights against
those in Massachusetts who wish to infringe upon the freedoms guaranteed by our forefathers. The programs sponsored and developed by
Gun Owners’ Action League are supported by competitors, sportsmen,
recreational shooters and law enforcement throughout the state.
We were formed in 1974 to protect the right to keep and bear arms for
lawful purposes in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We are recognized as the state’s premier gun rights association.
Why You Should Join GOAL
Every intrusion on our gun rights is an intrusion on all rights. The Constitutional rights and freedoms that you enjoy - and may take for granted - are becoming more fragile each day. Secure your rights for yourself,
your family and future generations. Join GOAL and become part of the
solution today.
Gun Owners’ Action League - GOAL News “Print Edition” is published
Gun Owners’ Action League is a grassroots organization whose memmonthly and provided as a membership benefit to all classes of members actively participate in the many facets of protecting our Second
bership who wish to receive it.
Amendment rights and passing on the shooting sports traditions.
Submissions of original works are welcomed. However the editor reNo one has any reason to fear the possession of firearms by law-abiding
serves the right to reject or appropriately edit any submitted material.
citizens. GOAL publishes materials to bring the truth about gun ownerReprint permission is granted provided that appropriate credit is given ship to the public, the legislature and our members.
in the form of the statement: “Reprinted from GOAL News Print Edition”.
We also provide courses to new shooters, as well as certification trainAdvertisers should contact Mike Sweeney at 508-393-5333 x25 or ing for those wishing to become firearms instructors. We also provide
[email protected] for rates and information.
referrals to instructors around the state.
GOAL News - Print Edition
Join online, at http://goal.org/joingoal.html
Chief Executive Officer: James Wallace
Editor: Michael Sweeney
Contributing Editors:
Angela Fisher, Jon Green, Steve Moysey, Jay Beard, Bettina Romberg
Gun Owners’ Action League
PO Box 567/361 W. Main St.
Northboro, MA. 01532
Phone: 508-393-5333 Fax: 508-393-5222
http://www.goal.org
General e-mail [email protected]
Chief of Staff: [email protected]
News/Communications/Web e-mail: [email protected]
Training/Education e-mail: [email protected]
Membership/Club e-mail: [email protected]
Gun Owners’ Action League is the official Massachusetts state
association of the National Rifle Association.
Follow Us Online!
Please Note New Printing Schedule!
The GOAL Board of Directors has decided to change the print publication schedule to a bi-monthly publication starting in 2015.
Starting in 2015 & going forward the GOAL News Print Edition will be
published 6 times annually.
The first issue for 2015 will be in February, with a new issue to follow
every other month.
This will present a significant savings for GOAL members, remember,
any information presented here is always posted on our website and in
our Friday News email and on our social media.
See links at left to follow us online. Thank you!
GOAL News Print Edition
4
From the Editor
April 2015
By: Mike Sweeney
Sound Suppressor Legislation
ers and town officials who are
dealing with property rights disWe’ve all seen the film noir imputes and often times the genesis
ages of the assassin sneaking into
of the complaints is derived from
a room, peering around to make
the sound of firearms in the dissure all is clear, the rain drips off
tance.
his fedora as he slowly pulls the
silencer out of his overcoat and Let’s clarify a couple of things bebegins threading it onto his pistol, fore we continue. Notice above
all the while his eyes are alert for that I quoted “legalizes”. This is
the slightest movement or sound. because ownership/possession of
Slowly, he creeps across the wood- a sound suppressor for a firearm is
en floor, his wingtip shoes silent currently legal in MA. The problem
on the hardwood floor. The as- is that our legislature has created a
sassin stops at the bedroom door, very hard to navigate set of condislowly turns the knob, and opens tions and permits that need to be
the door just a crack to peek in. He acquired before that’s possible. As
spots his target, sound asleep and we stand now, in Massachusetts,
snoring, creeps in closer, aims, a citizen would have to possess a
pulls the trigger and we hear noth- federal permit known as an 07FFL
ing but a clicking sound as the as- which recognizes the permit holder as a manufacturer and dealer of
sassin does the deed.
firearms in order to legally own/
As usual, what happens in a movie
possess a sound suppressor. (This
isn’t necessarily accurate in real
would be in addition to the regular
life. We also know how many erfederal and MA state requirements
rors there are in the movie clip dethat need to be met, more on that
scribed above, have you ever tried
below).
walking silently on a hardwood
floor in wingtips? It’s nearly im- Also, it has to be pointed out; a
possible, as is completely silenc- sound suppressor on a firearm
does not silence it as it is portrayed
ing a firearm.
in the movies. Sound suppresThe genesis of laws pertaining to
sors reduce the noise, exactly like
sound suppressors for firearms
a muffler on a car. Only the noise
originated in the early 20th cenfrom the report of the shot being
tury, they were originally passed
fired is reduced. There is still noise
as hunting laws under the guise
coming from the firearm in terms
of stopping people from hunting
of the action working. More imat night, and/or poaching. I’m
portantly there is still a supersonic
guessing that more than a few of
crack from the bullet flying downthe supporters of these early laws
range.
also had the silent movie assassin
As with anything to do with our
in their minds as well.
Second Amendment this legisIn today’s world of urban enlation will face opposition from
croachment, passing legislation
people who don’t know any of
that “legalizes” possession of
the facts stated above. They will
sound suppressors for firearms,
make uneducated and immature
makes sense. We are constantly
statements regarding killers using
hearing from clubs, property ownMarch 2015
them to rack up a body count and
talk about nobody “needing one”.
tional Firearms Act of 1934 was
passed. This law put a number
of hurdles in place including the
They want to simultaneously com$200 tax stamp that still needs to
plain about the sound of firearms
be paid for anyone to obtain perand claim that keeping them loud
mission to own.
helps reduce crime.
Should GOAL’s legislation pass, a
Ridiculous.
citizen would need to be licensed
Keeping sound suppressors for to own a firearm in the state of
firearms out of the hands of law- Massachusetts and would need to
abiding citizens makes ZERO meet the following federal requiresense. None, zilch, squat, nada, ments as outlined by the American
by the same logic, should we re- Suppressor Association:
move the mufflers from cars being
Suppressors are regulated under
driven by student drivers?
the National Firearms Act (NFA)
of 1934, which falls under the
Some background.
purview of the Bureau of Alcohol,
The suppressor, or “silencer” as it
Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
was originally called, was invent(ATF). To legally purchase or posed in the early 1900s by an MIT stusess a suppressor you must:
dent named Hiram Maxim. Hiram
•Be at least 21 years of age to
was an avid firearms enthusiast
purchase a suppressor from a
who invented the “silencer” so he
dealer.
could shoot in his backyard “in a
more neighborly fashion.”
•Be at least 18 years of age to
purchase a suppressor from an
His invention was hugely popular
individual on a Form 4 to Form
and was available for purchase
4 transfer (contingent on state
in hardware stores for just over
laws).
$3.00. Sportsmen and hunters enjoyed the benefits of suppressed
•Be at least 18 years of age to
firearms for years until the Napossess a suppressor as a beneficiary of a trust or as a member
of a corporation (contingent on
state laws).
•Be a resident of the United
States.
•Be legally eligible to purchase a
firearm.
•Pass a BATFE background check
with a typical process time of
60-120 days.
•Pay a one time $200 Transfer
Tax.
•Reside in one of the 39 states
that currently allow civilian
ownership of suppressors.
The American Suppressor Association also does a great job listing
the benefits of owning a suppressor:
Continued on page 6
April 2015
GOAL News Print Edition
5
From the Executive Director
Legislative Committees Named
Christine P. Barber
It took some time to name the
house members of the joint committees for the new 2015 – 2016
legislative session, much longer
than usual. By the end of February we finally found out who was
going to lead and serve on the big
three that GOAL normally has to
deal with. Here is a listing:
Donald R. Berthiaume Jr.
The Joint Committee on Public
Safety and Homeland Security:
https://malegislature.gov/Committees/Joint/J22
Senate Chair: James Timilty
Senate Vice Chair: Michael Moore
Remaining Senate Members:
Sonia Chang-Diaz
Jennifer L. Flanagan
James T. Welch
Richard J. Ross
House Chair: Harold Naughton
House Vice Chair: Linda Campbell
Remaining Members:
Bruce Ayers
James Cantwell
James Dwyer
Paul Heroux
Alan Silvia
Rady Mom
Paul Tucker
David Viera
James M. Kelcourse
The Joint Committee on the Judiciary: https://malegislature.gov/
Committees/Joint/J19
Senate Chair: William Brownsberger
Senate Vice Chair: John Keenan
Remaining Senate Members:
Sonia Chang-Diaz
Cynthia Creem
Patricia Jehlen
Richard Ross
House Chair: John Fernandes
House Vice Chair: Claire Cronin
Remaining House Members:
Colleen Gary
Jeffery Roy
John Velis
Evandro Carvalho
Michael Day
Carlos Gonzalez
Paul Tucker
Sheila Harrington
James Lyons
The Question 10 Trap
Timothy Whelan
On the standard Massachusetts
application to obtain a Firearm
The Joint Committee on the Envi- Identification Card or License to
ronment, Natural Resources and Carry supplied by the Criminal
Agriculture: https://malegislature. Justice Informational Services,
gov/Committees/Joint/J21
there are a series of questions
that are to be answered by the apSenate Chair: Anne Gobi
plicant. Most are pretty standard
Senate Vice Chair: Michael Rush
requesting age, citizen status, arrest warrants, etc. There is one
Remaining Senate Members:
question in particular that sets up
a trap for some who are not payJames B. Eldridge
ing close attention or simply don’t
Thomas M. McGee
understand the question being
asked of them.
James E. Timilty
Robert L. Hedlund
House Chair: Paul Schmid
House Vice Chair: Brian Mannal
Remaining House Members:
James M. Cantwell
Carolyn C. Dykema
Josh S. Cutler
Mary S. Keefe
Jay Livingstone
Question #10: Have you ever appeared in any court as a defendant
for any criminal offense (excluding
non-criminal traffic offenses)? The
catch here is that if the licensing
authority believes you have knowingly filed an application with false
information, they can declare you
a prohibited person. This is caused
by paragraphs in both the FID card
and LTC laws that can punish
an offender with imprisonment.
These paragraphs then invoke the
violations listed in the prohibited
persons category.
This question has confused so
many people that even those who
apply for relief before the Firearm
License Review Board are often
found to have answered incorrectly on that application. The question from the Board is then, if you
have not been a defendant then
why are you here?
than two years in a house of correction, or by both such fine and
imprisonment.
Chapter 140, Section 129B(i)(d)
a violation of any law regulating
the use, possession, ownership,
transfer, purchase, sale, lease,
rental, receipt or transportation of
weapons or ammunition for which
a term of imprisonment may be
imposed;
One of the new law changes that
have taken effect this year is the
right to know specifically why you
are being denied or restricted. Under the reforms that GOAL worked
for in Chapter 284 of the Acts of
2014, citizens now have the legal
right to a written explanation for
denials and restrictions.
Chapter 140, Section 131(d)(i)(d)
a violation of any law regulating
the use, possession, ownership,
transfer, purchase, sale, lease,
rental, receipt or transportation of
weapons or ammunition for which
Many people legitimately get con- a term of imprisonment may be
fused by the question because imposed; or
they don’t consider themselves to
Chapter 140, Section 131(h) Any
have been a defendant in court. It
person who knowingly files an apcould be an old case 40 years ago
plication containing false informathat was a simple assault case
tion shall be punished by a fine of
from a teenage fight. In most cases
not less than $500 nor more than
people pled guilty, paid a fine and
$1,000 or by imprisonment for
walked away. Because there was
not less than six months nor more
no trial, most people don’t conthan two years in a house of corsider it a court case. The long and
rection, or by both such fine and
short of it is that if you had any inimprisonment.
teractions with the courts be sure
and disclose it on the form.
You Have the Right to Know
Chapter 140, Section 129B (8) Any
person who knowingly files an application containing false information shall be punished by a fine of
not less than $500 nor more than
$1,000 or by imprisonment for
not less than six months nor more
The new law states: “…the licensing authority shall notify the
holder of a license in writing setting forth the specific reasons for
the determination…” This new
change will no longer allow lo-
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GOAL News Print Edition
6
April 2015
GOAL News - Print Edition
GOAL Blasts SJC - Continued from page 1
specific about the Second Amendment not applying to this type of
device as it was not invented when
the Second Amendment was written.
friend) had it for that purpose, but
had not used it for that purpose.
“She wants her stun gun and she
has a right to her stun gun under
our theory of the case and she also
has a right not to have a conviction that will follow her for life for
doing what any reasonable person
would have done. She did not use
the stun gun, she displayed it.”
“I am saying that it is protected by
the Second Amendment if it is carried for self defense in case of confrontation and those are the facts
of this case.”
From The Editor - Suppressors- Cont’d from page 4
“Right, he would be committing a
crime of assault and battery or..
MA SJC: “So is it your view that
Listening to the back and forth
it’s only a crime if it’s being used
between Caetano’s attorney Benfor that purpose, as opposed to
jamin H. Keehn and the Supreme
somebody who might not be using
Judicial Court was very telling.
is for so good a purpose?
It continued and, as we know, the
SJC found against Jamie Caetano.
This is the kind of backwards
MA SJC counters: “Let’s assume it
thinking that our Supreme Judiwas the boyfriend who had a stun
cial Court displays. In their eyes
gun and was using it to torture her
it’s better to have a women locked
without leaving marks.”
up for protecting herself from be“That would be a crime”
ing beaten than to allow her, or
anyone, to carry a tool to lawfully
MA SJC counters: “What would be
protect themselves. They do this
the crime? Not the possession acunder the guise of “protecting
cording to you.
people”, all the while they are only
endangering people by removing
“Torture is a crime”
our choice of self defense.
MA SJC: “Let’s assume he (the boy-
It’s hard to
hIt It when
you can’t see It
Let us heLp you bring things in to focus
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Quality, Detailed Eye Exams
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hopkInton VIsIon center
508.435.4711 www.drperryman.net
10 Cedar Street Hopkinton, MA 01748
Anatomy of a suppressor - they are very similar to a car or motorcycle muffler.
Benefits of Suppressors
As urban developments advance
into rural areas, shooting ranges
HEARING PROTECTION
and hunting preserves across the
Noise induced hearing loss and country are being closed due to
tinnitus are two of the most com- noise complaints. Although it can
mon afflictions for recreational still be heard, suppressed gunfire
shooters and hunters. Everyone helps mitigate noise complaints
knows that gunfire is loud, but from those who live near shooting
very few people understand the ranges and hunting land.
repercussions that shooting can
ACCURACY
have on their hearing until it’s too
One of the most common problate.
lems for shooters is decreased acSuppressors reduce the noise of a
curacy caused by flinching in angunshot by an average of 20 – 35
ticipation of the firearms discharge
dB, which is roughly the same as
and recoil. By containing the exearplugs or earmuffs. By decreasplosion of the gunpowder at the
ing the overall sound signature,
muzzle, suppressors reduce recoil,
suppressors help to preserve the
and help decrease muzzle flinch.
hearing of recreational shooters,
These benefits lead to improved
hunters, and hunting dogs around
accuracy, better shot placement,
the world.
and more humane hunts.
SAFER HUNTING
FDR is famously quoted as saying
Most hunters do not wear not “the only thing we have to fear is
wear hearing protection in the fear itself”, this rings true regardfield because they want to hear ing suppressor legislation. There
their surroundings. The trouble is, are many myths and unjust fears
exposure to even a single unsup- surrounding sound suppressors
pressed gunshot can, and often and they are just that, fears that
does, lead to permanent hearing have nothing to do with reality.
damage. Suppressors allow huntGOAL looks forward to working
ers to maintain full situational
with our legislature towards bringawareness, while still protecting
ing Massachusetts in-line with the
their hearing. The result is a safer
bulk of the country. We will keep
hunting experience for the hunter,
you updated regarding the staand for those nearby.
tus of this legislation as it moves
along; let’s make MA muffled!
NOISE COMPLAINTS
April 2015
GOAL News Print Edition
7
GOAL News - Print Edition
From the Executive Director - Continued from page 5
cal authorities to simply supply
a form letter that simply states
you have been found unsuitable.
These new requirements are of
particular importance if someone
who is denied or restricted seeks
to challenge that in court.
more, or different, evidence the
judge should disallow it and the
authority should be found in violation of the law.
One thing that is very important
to be aware of is certain cities or
towns that tell applicants they
don’t accept applications for unrestricted licenses such policies
are not supported by law. If they
choose to deny or restrict your application then it is their obligation
to justify it. It is also a tactic they
can use against you in court because the application will reflect
that you applied for a restricted
license.
License applicants have long had
the legal right to appeal outright
denials in district court in Massachusetts. With the passage of
Chapter 284, this is the first time
that applicants have officially
been given the right to challenge
restrictions. This is not to say that
some people have not had success
in the past with a challenge, but
now it is officially a Massachusetts
law and all state courts must recognize it.
Just keep in mind that you have a
civil right to keep and bear arms.
Because the new law mandates
If that right is being denied or resuch specificity it should be very
stricted it is your right as a lawful
beneficial to anyone bringing a
citizen to now why and to chalchallenge to court. If an applicant
lenge it.
files an appeal, the only evidence
the licensing authority should be
able to use in their defense is the
https://malegislature.gov/Laws/
written statement that was supSessionLaws/Acts/2014/Chapplied to the applicant. If the liter284
censing authority attempts to use
Section 48 of 284
accordance with paragraph (e).
Upon revoking or suspending a
Section 131 (c) … Upon denial of
license based on a determination
an application or renewal of a liof unsuitability, the licensing aucense based on a determination
thority shall notify the holder of a
of unsuitability, the licensing aulicense in writing setting forth the
thority shall notify the applicant
specific reasons for the determinain writing setting forth the specific
reasons for the determination in Continued on page 8
Have you been
denied an LTC?
Has an old conviction,
minor firearms conviction
or a minor drug offense
caused you to lose your
LTC/FID?
We may be able to help, email [email protected],
include the reason the PD supplied for denial.
Comm2A has multiple pending cases in federal court in an effort to
ensure state firearms law treats all lawful residents equally and fairly.
Comm2A is a non-profit public charity organized
under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue
code. Contributions made to Comm2A are fully
tax deductible and always welcome.
www.comm2a.org
[email protected]
(617) 942-0660
PO Box 301398
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
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GOAL News Print Edition
8
April 2015
GOAL News - Print Edition
From the Executive Director - Continued from page 7
tion in accordance with paragraph
(f). The determination of unsuitability shall be subject to judicial
review under said paragraph (f).
SECTION 51 of 284
Section 131 (f) Any applicant or
holder aggrieved by a denial, revocation, suspension or restriction placed on a license, unless a
hearing has previously been held
pursuant to chapter 209A, may,
within either 90 days after receiving notice of the denial, revocation
or suspension or within 90 days after the expiration of the time limit
during which the licensing authority shall respond to the applicant
or, in the case of a restriction, any
time after a restriction is placed
on the license pursuant to this
section, file a petition to obtain
judicial review in the district court
having jurisdiction in the city or
town in which the applicant filed
the application or in which the license was issued. If after a hearing a justice of the court finds that
there was no reasonable ground
for denying, suspending, revoking
or restricting the license and that
the petitioner is not prohibited by
law from possessing a license, the
justice may order a license to be issued or reinstated to the petitioner
or may order the licensing authority to remove certain restrictions
placed on the license.
Marijuana, Where do Gun Owners Stand?
The GOAL office gets inquiries
about the marijuana laws and
how they affect lawful gun owners. The problem with answering
those questions is that there is a
lot of gray area and uncertainty.
This is caused by conflicts between state and federal laws and
even between different state laws
and policies. It really started in
2008 when the Massachusetts legislature passed a law decriminalizing marijuana possession of under
an ounce.
Get ready for Spring Turkey Season - Read below for more info!
and forfeiture. It is important to
note that this law DID NOT legalize marijuana, it only changed the
punishment for possessing under
an ounce. For the record, the new
law includes as part of that one
once limit anything in your body
including in the urine, blood, saliva, sweat, hair, fingernails, toe
nails or other tissue or fluid of the
Chapter 387 of the Acts of 2008 human body. How they measure
amended Chapter 94C, Section that is anyone’s guess. It also does
32L, making the possession of not forgive any violation of operatone ounce or less of marihuana ing a motor vehicle under the inpunishable only by civil penalties fluence. To some extent it is fair to
say that the possession laws may
have been decriminalized, but not
the usage.
Section 1?” Notice the word “convicted” appears on the application and not “violation”. Again the
word “use” also appears.
All of these laws and policies combined create quite a devil’s snare.
Even if we can untangle the answers here in the state, there still
lies another snake in the grass. The
federal government still considers
all possession and use of marijuana to be illegal. Aside from the
issues mentioned above, the federal laws also bring into question
medical marijuana use in Massachusetts. If it somehow showed on
a NICs background check that you
had been in violation of the drug
https://malegislature.gov/Laws/ laws, you could be federally proSessionLaws/Acts/2008/Chap- hibited from buying a firearm.
ter387
As anyone can see, there is a lot of
The 2008 law created a civil pen- work to be done on this subject.
alty as follows: “… one hundred Regardless of our personal likes or
dollars and forfeiture of the mari- dislikes of these law changes, we
huana, but not to any other form must work to find answers.
of criminal or civil punishment or
disqualification.” You may have
noticed the last word that refers to Turkey Season Approaches
no “disqualification”. Many regard
I was going to write a bit about
this as a safety net for anyone who
what you needed to know if you
was fined and may be seeking a
were going to head to the fields
Massachusetts FID or LTC, not so
(if the snow ever melts) to chase
fast.
a gobbler this coming season. InOne of the things that make you a stead I found the following post on
prohibited person under the Mas- the Division of Fisheries and Wildsachusetts gun laws is: “… a viola- life website. Saved me some work
tion of any law regulating the use, and hopefully tells you what you
possession or sale of controlled need to know.
substances, as defined in section 1
http://www.mass.gov/eea/agenof chapter 94C including, but not
cies/dfg/dfw/laws-regulations/
limited to, a violation under said
plain-lang-sum/hunting-of-wildchapter 94C…” Notice the word
turkey.html
being used is “violation” not criminal conviction. Just like a speed- 1. Spring Season Dates:
ing ticket is a moving violation, a
The spring turkey season begins
marijuana ticket is as well. This
on the last Monday in April. It conmeans even a civil fine is a 94C viotinues for 4 weeks (i.e., ending on
lation.
the 4th Saturday) in the zones in
To make things even more con- #4 below.
fusing, question #5 on the firearm
2. Fall Season Dates:
license application form asks:
“Have you ever convicted of the The fall turkey season begins on
unlawful use, possession, or sale the second to last Monday in Ocof narcotic or harmful drugs as tober and continues for 2 weeks
defined in M.G.L. Chapter 94C, Continued next page
April 2015
GOAL News Print Edition
9
GOAL News - Print Edition
From the Executive Director - Continued from page 8
ending on the 2nd Saturday.
3. Mentored Youth Turkey Hunt:
(a) the Saturday immediately preceding the last Monday in April;
(b) youths aged 12-17 may participate upon completion of a training
program and field exercise. Once a
youth has completed the training,
they may participate each year
thereafter until reaching age 18. A
free annual permit is required;
(c) all participating youths must
have completed hunter education
training;
(d) each participating youth must
be accompanied by an adult mentor. Only one youth per mentor is
allowed;
turkey hunters require a special
turkey hunting permit, for which
there is an additional fee. One
permit is valid for both spring and
fall seasons in the calendar year.
The permit must be carried on the
person at all times while hunting
turkey and must be shown on demand to a law enforcement officer
or check station official. All youths
participating in the mentored
youth turkey hunt must have a
free special permit which allows
them to participate. Youths aged
12 to 14 may be issued a free 1-day
turkey hunting permit and turkey
tag. Youths aged 15 to 17 years
must purchase and use a conventional turkey hunting permit and
tag.
9. Turkey Tags:
(e) participating youths may hunt
anywhere within the spring hunt- There are 2 “turkey tags” attached
to the turkey permit. Upon killing zone.
ing a turkey, the hunter must im4. Spring Zone: the spring turkey
mediately fill out the appropriate
hunting zone consists of Wildlife
tag, and must detach it from the
Management Zones 01 through
turkey permit and attach it to the
13 (see Zone map in the annual
turkey in a conspicuous manner.
“Hunting and Fishing Abstracts”);
The tag must remain attached to
5. Fall Zone: The fall turkey hunt- the turkey until the turkey is preing zone consists of Wildlife Man- sented to an official check station,
agement Zones 01 through 13 (see at which time the official in charge
Zone map in the annual “Hunting of the station will remove the tag.
Tags which are detached except as
and Fishing Abstracts”);.
provided herein are void and may
6. Hunting hours:
be confiscated by a law enforce(a) the spring (and mentored youth ment officer. See #8 above for perhunt) hunting hours are from 1/2 mit and tag requirements for parhour before sunrise to 12:00 noon; ticipants in the mentored youth
turkey hunt.
(b) the fall hunting hours are from
1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 10. Check Stations:
hour after sunset, except on wildWithin 48 hours after killing a wild
life management areas stocked
turkey, the entire carcass (the aniwith pheasant or quail, during the
mal may be field-dressed) must
pheasant or quail season, where
be presented to an official check
the hunting hours are from sunrise
station, by the person who killed
to sunset.
the turkey. At this time, the turkey
will be recorded and examined for
7. Bag Limits:
research purposes, and the check
(a) the annual bag limit is 2 tur- station official may remove feathkeys. An adult hunter may choose er samples. If lawfully taken, the
either of the following options:
official will remove the paper tag
(b) two birds in the spring (beard- and affix a locking metal seal. The
ed birds only); only 1 bird per day; seal must remain on the turkey
until it is skinned, cut up, or othwith no fall turkey allowed; or
erwise prepared for food purposes
(c) 0-1 bearded bird in the spring or for mounting by a taxidermist.
and one bird of either sex in the Seals are non-transferable. Alterfall.
nate procedures may be estab(d) Note: it is not permissible to lished for checking turkeys during
the mentored youth turkey hunt.
take 2 birds in the fall season.
11. Hunting Implements:
(e) the bag limit during the 1-day
mentored youth turkey hunt is Wild turkeys may be hunted only
one bearded turkey per youth.
by means of a shotgun (including
smoothbore muzzle-loaders) not
8. Licenses and Permits:
larger than 10 gauge (allowable
Resident Massachusetts hunters shot sizes #4 to #7) or by archery.
require either a resident hunting Bows must have a minimum pull
or sporting license. Non-resident of 40 lbs. at 28 in. draw (or peak
hunters require a non-resident draw for compound bows) and
big game license. In addition, all
must be used with well-sharpened
steel broadhead arrows not less
than 7/8 in width. Rifles and handguns are not allowed.
12. Prohibited:
Wild turkeys may not be hunted or
taken by means or with the aid of:
dogs, live decoys, bait, electronic
calls, or traps. Driving wild turkeys
is also prohibited.
the sticker is visible to the shooter
while sighting down the barrel of
the shotgun. Safety stickers are
not required of persons hunting
turkey by archery.
15. Calling Turkeys for Other:
A person is allowed to call turkeys
for another person, during the
open hunting season, provided
that the person doing the calling
has both a hunting or sporting li13. Other Hunting Methods:
cense and a current valid turkey
It is lawful to hunt turkeys with or permit. However, if the person
by means of an artificial decoy. doing the calling has killed his or
Hunter orange is not required, her season limit of turkeys, that
except that on a wildlife manage- person may not carry a firearm or
ment area stocked with pheasant archery equipment, or engage in
or quail, during the pheasant or turkey hunting in any way other
quail season, a person must wear than calling. The caller still must
have his or her hunting or sporting
a hunter orange hat or cap.
license and turkey permit in pos14. Safety Stickers:
session, whether or not the permit
A person shall not hunt wild tur- still has turkey tags attached.
key by means of a shotgun, or
This is not the entire law, and is
have a shotgun in his possession
subject to change. Refer to the
while hunting wild turkey, unless
Wild Turkey Hunting regulations
that person has obtained a “safety
in the Code of Massachusetts
sticker” as provided or approved
Regulations, 321 CMR 3.02(9) and
by the Director of Fisheries and
to several provisions of the MasWildlife and affixed the sticker to
sachusetts General Laws, Chapter
his shotgun in such a manner that
131.
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GOAL News Print Edition
April 2015
GOAL News - Print Edition
Join us for an afternoon of range fun followed by a BBQ bash, complete with cash bar, live music, cigar tent and more!
No need to bring your guns, we’ll be supplying them for you! Best part of all, you will have a chance to win one of the guns you shoot - just by participating!
Shoot IT - Win IT - Here’s how it works: Each participant will have an opportunity to purchase “shooting tickets”. Each ticket will be redeemed for a turn to shoot at one of the many “shooting stations” to be set up. Each
station will feature a different discipline and a different firearm. Everytime you redeem a ticket to shoot you are automatically entered into the drawing pool for that firearm, the more you shoot, the better your chance
to win!
Shooting stations will feature a Scholastic Steel pistol station, tactical rifle station, tactical shotgun station, clays station and a vintage gun section. (subject to change)
Shooting will go from 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM. At 4:00 PM all ranges will be shut down and all firearms will be secured. Once this happens the cash bar will open and the barbecue portion of the event will follow, featuring live
music and a delicious BBQ dinner featuring seafoood, pulled pork, Caribbean jerk chicken, and all of the fixings. To register contact Angela at GOAL 508-393-5333 or click on image above.
April 2015
GOAL News Print Edition
11
GOAL News - Print Edition
GOAL in Lowell Continued from page 1
Scholastic Pistol Program Intro a big success!
GOAL had a great time this past weekend at Taunton Rifle & Pistol club
where we had a great turnout for our first Scholastic Pistol Program Intro Day. Kids, parents, and potential coaches braved the sunshine and
cold air to learn more about this fast and fun sport. Most notably a few
coaches and students from Northeastern University and two teachers
from a local high school came out to learn more. One of the teachers
ran the “Go fast” stage in 2.47 seconds and was high for the day! We also
had one young man who never shot more than a BB rifle get into the
mid 6 second range by his 3rd run!
pect simply for wanting to exercise their civil right to protect
themselves or their family.
•The city should consider lawful
citizens to part of the solution
rather than part of the problem.
Such policies actually create a
wedge between law enforcement and citizens when we could
easily be working together.
•We are not saying that everyone
should carry a firearm; we are
simply saying that every lawful
citizen should have the choice.
•The ability to exercise our unrestricted civil right to carry a firearm should be the norm, not the
exemption. Restrictions on civil
rights should be rare and well
documented as to the reasons.
•The time and effort of our city regarding public safety should be
focused on the human criminal
element that is the root cause of
several problems.
•Most other states around the nation and cities and towns within
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have long recognized
the civil right to keep and bear
Ben Dewhirst watches Tim Rose “Go Fast” while GOAL’s Jon Green runs the timer at the
Taunton Rifle & Pistol Club last weekend.
arms and consider their citizens
to be a proactive measure in
public safety.
An extra Thanks to Rich Coffill and Ben Dewhirst from the Taunton Rifle & Pistol Club. They helped set up, acted as safety officers and even
•Lawful citizens wishing to exerhelped us take everything down.
cise their civil rights should not
be treated as adversaries by The next two are at Worcester Pistol & Rifle Club, April 4 from 10AM their representative local gov- 2PM and Nauset Rod & Gun Club April 12 from 1PM - 4PM. GOAL will
ernments, but rather as partners provide the guns, ammunition, and safety equipment. Leave your guns
in our goal to produce a safe at home and use ours!
community.
The Scholastic Pistol Program is a fast growing, fun and challenging dis•The wish of lawful citizens to cipline and a great time for all ages and abilities.
aid in making safer community
If your club is interested in running an SPP Intro, please contact Jon
should be fostered rather than
Green at the GOAL office 508-393-5333 or [email protected].
hindered.
See page 13 for more information about the SPP.
New GOAL Gear!
GOAL Military Cap
$15.00
GOAL Pink Camo Hat
$15.00
Alpha Crosslock Knife
Reaper Folding Knife
Lazer Etched Logo
$65.00
Lazer Etched Logo
$25.00
GOAL Digi-Cam Hat
$15.00
GOAL New Logo Black Hat
$15.00
GOAL News Print Edition
12
April 2015
GOAL News - Print Edition
Schedule A Scholastic Pistol Intro Today!
With the successful passage of Chapter 140 section 130 ½, GOAL has
partnered with the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation to assist
GOAL affiliated Clubs in starting Scholastic Pistol Program teams.
Special Spring Offer From GOAL Make a donation
or upgrade your life membership and receive this special pin!
GOAL Spring Fund Drive & Member Upgrade Special.
This exciting sport involves precise speed shooting at steel targets. It
combines the best features of other disciplines to allow student athletes to practice and participate in exciting matches with very little specialized equipment.
GOAL can help your club set up an SPP Intro event. These Intro events
will have information for parents, clubs and coaches. Prospective student athletes will have an opportunity to fire the “GO Fast” course of
fire using .22 and 9mm caliber pistols. In addition, all safety equipment,
firearms and ammunition (dependent on donated supply) will be provided by GOAL.
Please leave your guns and ammo at home!
In order to facilitate growth, GOAL has purchased a complete set of targets from GT Targets LLC of Collegeville, PA at a cost of $2200 delivered.
We will loan the other three sets of targets to three affiliated clubs. The
idea is to provide clubs with at least 5 steel targets so teams can practice. Clubs would then meet with other local clubs monthly, combine
targets and shoot a match.
Our goal is to register at least 25 4-person teams in 2015.
Here is how you can help:
1. Work with your Club to host an SPP Introduction. The Club will need
one pistol bay that is at least 50’ deep. 2. Start your own team. Other than the targets, there really is not a lot
of equipment needed.
3. You can donate a gun or money. Guns that are suitable for SPP may
be awarded to teams for use. Guns not suitable for SPP will be sold with
the funds to be used for equipment and target purchases from GT Targets and or Action Target. 4. Donate money, please make checks payable to GOAL and note SPP
in the memo line. Send to GOAL attention Jon Green 361 West Main St
Northborough, MA 01532. We can also take donations over the phone at
508-393-5333 ext 21.
Dear GOAL Members, Please help Gun Owners’ Action League stay in the fight
to protect and restore your Second Amendment rights in Massachusetts!
Thanks to you, we have succesfully fought off continued calls for more restrictions on our rights and have even made significant reforms, but the fight continues.
In the past few years we have faced many challenges on Beacon Hill. Recently
the fight has gone local, several cities and towns across the Commonwealth
have introduced local ordinances to restrict or ban the use of firearms for selfdefense or sporting purposes. To date we have stopped all local attacks in
their tracks! With your help GOAL can continue to fend off these continued
attacks on our rights.
Yes, I want to make a donation to help GOAL stay in the fight!
If you are a life member we have another great way to help, upgrade
your life membership and help GOAL stay in the fight!
To thank you for your donation or upgrade GOAL would like to send you a special, limited edition GOAL “40 Years” pin mounted on a hand signed thank you
card from GOAL’s Executive Director Jim Wallace and GOAL’s President of the
Board, Jay Beard.
Life Member Upgrade Specials:
Upgrade from Sustaining to Benefactor: Normally $750 - Special price: $375
•Receive commemorative 40th anniversary pin!
Upgrade from Sustaining to Patron: Normally $2,250 - Special price: $1,125
•Receive commemorative 40th anniversary pin and GOAL knife!
To make a donation or upgrade, please send your check to:
GOAL Spring Fund Drive, P.O. Box 567, Northborough, MA. 01532
Thank you for your support!
n Gu n s m
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it h
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in
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K.
36 Fern Hill Road, Palmer, MA. 01069
413-283-9975
www.klhootongunsmiting.com
Gunsmithing Since 1974
Free Estimates
April 2015
GOAL News Print Edition
13
GOAL News - Print Edition
Big Bang Annual Raffle!
Upcoming Competition and Events
•Auburn Sportsman’s Club - Game Dinner on Saturday, April 25th
You need not be present to win. Odds determined by number of tickets
sold. All federal and state gun laws apply. All prizes are to be claimed
within 30 days from the drawing. Firearms may be shipped to another FFL
at winner’s expense.
**Please note that due to postal regulations, we cannot send any
part of a raffle ticket through the mail.**
Please note: Firearms pictured in ad are not actual prize guns, they
are representative of the firearms to be awarded.
Edward George &
Associates
We concentrate in civil litigation representing closely held businesses
including negotiation and court appearances in matters involving real
estate, business, contracts and environmental disputes.
We also concentrate in representing individuals and families in trust
and probate (estate) litigation and administration and personal injury
claims.
We advise small businesses, clubs and associations regarding
compliance with regulations, risk management, employment and
related issues.
We serve as general counsel to a number of corporations, LLC’s and
partnerships.
444 Washington St.
Suite 510
Woburn, MA. 01801
Tel: 781-281-7288 Fax: 781-305-3259
email: [email protected]
www.edgeorgelaw.com
from Noon until 5pm. The Game Dinner is open to the public and
menu includes venison, bear, salmon, pulled pork, cherry stones,
and an assortment of deep fried treats, i.e., turkey and more. Tickets
are limited. Donation is $25 per person for this “All You Can Eat” meal
and can be purchased in the lounge at the Auburn Sportsman’s Club.
The Game Dinner will be held in the hall at the Auburn Sportsman’s
Club located at 50 Elm Street, Auburn, MA 01501. The hall is handicap-accessible and parking is free. For further info, call the Auburn
Sportsman’s Club at 508.832.6492.
•Harvard Sportsmen’s Club - Babes With Bullets Women’s Handgun Shooting Camp - July 31 thru Aug 2 For all levels and abilities
- Cost includes instruction, range fees, housing, lunch, use of S&W
M&P handguns, belts, holsters, etc. Cost of ammo not included. For
more info and to register: www.BabeswithBullets.com - Questions?
Call, text or email Cynthia (BWB alum) [email protected]
•Monument Beach Sportsman’s Club - Annual Sportsman’s Show
April 11 & 12. This event brings together vendors and exhibitors from
shooting, fishing, outdoors activities and archery specialties in one
venue. Entry fee $10- per person. Military personnel in uniform FREE.
•Wrentham Sportsman’s Association - April 12 - Shotgun (Turkey No Slugs) - April 26 - Pistol, Rim Fire - May 10 - Pistol, Center Fire
(3 inch barrel or shorter) - May 31 - Military Rifle Keith’s shoot (Sling
Allowed) $20.00 entry fee. 1:00 pm start.
•Uxbridge Rod & Gun Club - Sunday Morning Trap - 10:00 AM start
time, runs year round, join in for a great time!
•High Power Rifle Shooting, at Reading Rifle and Revolver - the
ONLY 600yd range in the Massachusetts has a full schedule for both
“Across the Course” NRA and CMP matches as well as NRA “Mid-Range
Prone” matches, for the upcoming 2015 season. You don’t need to be
a member to participate in the matches.Go to: http://readinghighpower.com/ for complete schedule and match results. If you have
questions please contact the High Power Director at, [email protected]
•New England Airgun - Thursday Night Break Barrel Air Gun shoot.
Competition includes 3 rounds of shooting in standing - sitting - kneeling positions. Bring your own or Rent/Purchase onsite 7pm - 9pm.
Entry is $15. Lead-Free ammo required and available onsite. New
England Airgun Inc, 188 Central St, Hudson Ma 01749, 978.567.6970 www.NewEnglandAirgun.com
•Woburn Sportsmen’s Association 2014-2015 indoor season
(11/02/14 - 03/29/15), an indoor/outdoor match is run each Sunday
starting at 10 am SHARP with a nominal entry fee, firing from the
warmth of inside the high power house out to 200 yards. Targets are
collected and scored after each 20-shot, 20 minute relay. Shooters
are classified by NRA rules, and shoot against others in their same
rank. Cash prizes or trophies are awarded to the ranking shooters in
each class. Matches are open to the public, and there are usually 5
relays, so sign up for any one; we will have a rifle available for new
shooters For more information contact Russ Burschsted or [email protected]
•Lowell Sportsmen’s Club - Trap & Skeet: every Sunday at 1pm and
Wednesday at 10am, $3/round
•Petersham Gun Club - Sporting Clays course open every Sunday year
round, we shoot at 10am and finish by 1pm. Winter League starts
February 1st and runs 12 weeks. Contact petershamgunclub12@
gmail.com for more information.
+ your open to the public listing here - email info to [email protected].
GOAL News Print Edition
14
April 2015
GOAL News - Print Edition
Reloading Bench
Cartridge Case Longevity (Continued from page 17)
The most remarkable thing I learned during this test was the striking difference in longevity between plain brass and nickel-plated brass cases.
I had the feeling going in that nickel-plated cases split sooner than plain
brass cases. I didn’t realize how much sooner. The plain brass cases
lasted 3 times longer than the nickel plated brass. The first nickel-plated case failed on the 6th loading, and by the 15th loading, all six nickel
plated cases were split – with an average of 10.5 reloads before failure.
The first brass case failed on reload number 28, with one tenacious case
hanging on until the 40th reload! The plain brass cases averaged 33
reloads before failure (see Table 1).
On the other hand, 30 reloads per case is a lot, so repeating this test
with different dies to see if I can get a few more reloads per case is probably not going to be a high priority for me.
By the way, the tile of this article says ”Part 1” because I intend to test
additional calibers in the future – next up will be .45 ACP.
Table 1 – The results of the longevity test
Conclusions
When I take the amount of once-fired range brass I’ve scrounged
through the years, and combine it with the fact that plain brass cases
can be loaded about 30 times, I’m able to conclude that I have enough
.38 Special cases to last several lifetimes. I’ve also decided that when
I buy brass in the future for any caliber, I will opt for plain brass over Jim Finnerty is an NRA-Certified Metallic Cartridge Reloading instructor.
Jim teaches the reloading classes at GOAL, as well as at gun shops and
nickel-plated cases when given the choice.
clubs around the area. For more information, please visit Jim’s website at
Since work hardening seems to be the cause of the case failures, it might
www.MassReloading.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Massbe interesting sometime in the future to repeat this test using dies that
Reloading
are designed to go easier on the brass. Redding’s dual-ring carbide sizing dies work the brass less during sizing, while the new RCBS expander
dies and the Lyman “M” expander dies are designed with a stepped expander button to reduce the amount of mouth flare needed for proper
bullet seating. Both of these improvements should increase case longevity.
Join GOAL - Protecting Your Freedom Begins Here!
Gun Owners’ Action League is the
official state firearms association
in Massachusetts. We are an association of law-abiding citizens who
believe in the basic right of firearms ownership for competition,
recreation and self-protection.
GOAL works hard to defend the
Constitution and the Bill of Rights
against those in Massachusetts
who wish to infringe upon the
freedoms guaranteed by our forefathers. The programs sponsored
and developed by Gun Owners’
Action League are supported by
competitors, sportsmen, recreational shooters and law enforcement throughout the state.
We were formed in 1974 to protect
the right to keep and bear arms for
lawful purposes in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We are
recognized as the state’s premier
gun rights association.
Why You Should Join GOAL
stitutional rights and freedoms for yourself, your family and future
Every intrusion on our gun rights is that you enjoy - and may take for generations. Join GOAL and bean intrusion on all rights. The Con- granted - are becoming more frag- come part of the solution today.
ile each day. Secure your rights
April 2015
GOAL News Print Edition
15
GOAL News - Print Edition
2015 - 2016 Legislation
House
Bill #
Bill Title
Sponsor
H.1305
An Act Relative to Suppressors
H.1380
An Act INCREASING PENALTIES FOR DISCHARGING A FIREARM
INTO A DWELLING, RESIDENCE OR STRUCTURE WHERE PERSONS
RESIDE
H.1497
Committee Report
Committee Assignment
GOAL Position
Paul Frost
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
GOAL Legislation
Russell E. Holmes
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Oppose
An Act to prohibit gunfire directed at dwelling houses
Rady Mom
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Needs Further Study
H.1519
An Act to enhance courthouse security
Harold P. Naughton, Jr.
Joint Committee on the Judiciary
Needs Further Study
H.2092
An Act Relative to a Technical Correction of Chapter 284 of the Acts
of 2014
Nicholas A. Boldyga
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
H.2093
An Act relative to alien firearm licensing
Nicholas A. Boldyga
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
Support
H.2102
An Act relative to mental illness and firearms
Linda Dean Campbell
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
Needs Further Study
H.2120
An Act relative to the lawful sale of ammunition
Angelo L. D'Emilia
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
H.2122
An Act relative to change of address for firearm licensing
Stephen L. DiNatale
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
H.2134
An Act relative to creating an Olympic firearm roster
Sheila C. Harrington
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
Support
H.2138
An Act relative to equitable firearm license fees
Paul R. Heroux
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
H.2149
An Act relative to senior gun owner equity
Kevin J. Kuros
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
Support if amended
H.2155
An Act Relative to Unloaded Rifles or Shotguns
Paul W. Mark
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
H.2158
An Act relative to constitutional rights
James R. Miceli
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
H.2159
An Act creating a statewide gun offender registry
Aaron Michlewitz
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
Needs Further Study
H.2160
An Act Act relative to dangerous weapons
David M. Nangle
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
Needs Further Study
H.2175
An Act relative to the lawful sale of handguns
Todd M. Smola
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
H.2188
An Act relative to firearms in the Commonwealth
Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
Oppose
H.2191
An Act relative to firearm owners protection
David T. Vieira
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
Anne M. Gobi
H.2599
An Act relative to school safety and security
Marc T. Lombardo
Joint Committee on Revenue
Needs Further Study
H.2625
An Act relative to gun safe deductions
David K. Muradian Jr.
Joint Committee on Revenue
GOAL Legislation
H.2626
An Act relative to sales tax exemptions for gun safes and trigger
locks
David K. Muradian Jr.
Joint Committee on Revenue
GOAL Legislation
Committee Assignment
GOAL Position
Wildlife - Outdoor Related Legislation
House
Bill #
Bill Title
Sponsor
H.625
An Act relative to bow hunting for deer in Wompatuck State Park
Garrett J. Bradley
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Support
H.636
An Act relative to the feeding of wildlife
Gailanne M. Cariddi
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Needs Further Study
H.658
An Act relative to the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife
Carolyn C. Dykema
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Needs Further Study
H.672
An Act expanding the powers of the Director of Fisheries and
Wildlife
Paul K. Frost
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Support
H.709
An Act conserving our natural resources
Stephen Kulik
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Needs Further Study
H.728
An Act relative to the use of shotguns
David K. Muradian Jr.
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
GOAL Legislation
H.730
An Act concerning the trapping of fur-bearing mammals
David M. Nangle
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Needs Further Study
H.762
An Act authorizing the use of bow and arrows for Sunday hunting
William M. Straus | Paul
K. Frost
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Support
H.769
An Act relative to hunting with artificial light
David T. Vieira
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Support
H.1479
An Act relative to poaching
Brian R. Mannal
Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and
Agriculture
Needs Further Study
H.2176
An Act relative to firearms and recreational vehicles
Todd M. Smola
Joint Committee onPublic Safety and Homeland Security
GOAL Legislation
N/A
An Act relative to the use of crossbows
N/A
N/A
GOAL Legislation
Advertise
In GOAL News
Print Edition!
Committee Report
GOAL News Print Edition
16
April 2015
GOAL Training
2015 GOAL Training Schedule
Free MA Gun Law Seminar for Affiliated Clubs
GOAL is pleased to offer yet another benefit for our affiliated Clubs. The MA Gun Law for Citizens course is a 3 hour seminar on Massachusetts and
Federal statute and regulation. This presentation will help separate fact from fiction and provide guests with a basic understanding of MA gun
law regarding the possession, transportation, and storage of guns in this State. Additional topics include MA assault weapons laws, the Approved
Firearm roster, buying and selling of guns, ammunition limits / storage requirements and much more!
We’ll also provide an overview of changes from Chapter 284, the new gun legislation that the signed into law on August 13, 2014. Guests will receive a copy of the presentation as well as various handouts prepared by GOAL and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security.
This class is available for weeknight presentations from 6PM to 9PM and is presented by Jon Green, the Director of Education and Training for Gun
Owners’ Action League. Please contact Jon Green directly at [email protected] or 508-393-5333 extension 21 to schedule this free informative
and entertaining seminar.
Below is the schedule for courses held at GOAL Headquarters in Northboro, Massachusetts (unless otherwise noted).
All NRA Basic Pistol courses offered through GOAL exceed standards established in accordance with Massachusetts General Law Chapter . 140, §
131P and 515 CMR 3.00
All courses require pre-regisration paid in full. This can be done in person at The GOAL office, via phone 508-393-5333 x20, or via email by contacting Angela Fisher.
Course
Date
Tuition
Time
The Art of Concealed Carry in Massachusetts
4/9/15, 6/11/15, 9/10/15, 11/12/15
Members $85.00
Non-Members $120.00
5:30 - 10:00 PM
Basic Metallic Cartridge Reloading
4/18/15, 10/24/15
Members $110.00
Non-Members $140.00
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Basic Pistol Course (NRA LTC-002)
5/19/15, 8/25/15, 9/15/15
Members $100.00
Non-Members $145.00
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
BFS Primer Course for State Certified Instructors
TBA
Members $60.00
Non-Members $90.00
6:00 -9:00 PM
Close Quarters Carbine w/ Scott Gergain - Center Mass
5/15/15 - 5/16/15 at Shawme F&G
Members 300.00
Non-Members $350
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Instructor Course: NRA Basic Pistol and Home Firearm
Safety
TBA
Members $295.00
Non-Members $345.00
Call for more info.
Instructor Course: NRA Basic Pistol
6/29/15 - 6/30/15
Members $250.00
Non-Members $350.00
Call for more info.
Intro to IDPA
5/5/2015, 5/12/15, *6/9/15
Members $95.00
Non-Members $125.00
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Members $95.00
Non-Members $125.00
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
*at Shawme F&G
Intro to Carbine
5/26/15, 6/27/15 at Worcester P&R
6/23/15 at Shawme F&G
Intro to the Scholastic Pistol Program
4/4/15 at Worcester P&R, 4/12/15 at Nauset Rod & Gun
Free
10:00 AM
MA Gun Law for Citizens
TBA
Members $25.00
Non-Members $55.00
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Precision Rifle Reloading with Jim Finnerty
4/19/15, 10/25/15
Members $100.00
Non-Members $130.00
10:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Principles of Concealed Carry
9/3/15 at Shawme F&G
Members $95.00
Non-Members $125.00
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Progressive Carbine w/ Scott Germain - Center Mass
4/24/15 - 4/25/15 at Worcester P&R
Members $300
Non-Members $350
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Members $90.00
Non-Members $120.00
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
6/15/15 - 6/16/15 at Shawme F&G
Utah Non-Resident CCW
5/20/15, 7/7/15, 9/22/15
April 2015
GOAL News Print Edition
Reloading Bench
17
By: Jim Finnerty
Cartridge Case Longevity – Part 1
As an instructor, there is one experience in particular that I find truly
frustrating: When I have to reward a really good question with a very
bad answer. For example, when a participant in a reloading class asks,
“How many times can a case be reloaded before it must be scrapped?”
The correct (but unhelpful) answer is, “It depends.”
A number of factors affect case longevity. The caliber, the pressure to
which the rounds are loaded, the firearm used to fire the rounds, the
dies used to reload the rounds (and the way the dies are set up), and
even the case composition can all have an effect of the number of times
a case can be successfully reloaded.
Generally speaking, lower pressures, tighter chambers, better quality
components, and dies that are set up to work the case as little as possible all contribute to longer case life. However brass longevity isn’t
the only thing you have to consider when you are reloading: Some cartridges run best at higher pressures, some firearms have loose chambers, and sometimes you must set up your dies to produce ammo that
will run in a number of firearms rather than specifically tailoring it to
one chamber.
Figure 2 – Smith & Wesson Military and Police .38 Special Revolver (pre-Model 10)
The Results
In order to precisely determine how many times a particular cartridge
can be reloaded, you’d almost have to test each caliber/cartridge indi- The failure mode was the same for every case in the test: the case
vidually.
mouths split (see Figure 3). This makes sense. The .38 Special is a
straight-walled, low pressure revolver round. The primer pockets won’t
So, let’s do it. Since we have to start somewhere, I figured I’d begin by
loosen up, there’s no case stretch, and the chambers are fairly tight.
testing a middle-of-the-road .38 Special load.
That leaves “cracks due to work hardening” as the most likely failure
mode, which is exactly what happened to these cases. During loading,
the case mouth is first flared, and then roll-crimped, and then forcibly
flattened during firing. It is no surprise that the mouths split because
the mouth ends up getting worked much more than any other part of
the case.
Figure 3 –A split case mouth like the one above was the eventual failure mode for all 12 cases
Figure 1 – Portable Reloading Bench Set Up at the Range
The Test
I brought a portable reloading setup to the range with me (see Figure 1).
This setup is similar to the ones I use in the reloading classes. I loaded
the cartridges, shot them, wiped the cases off with a rag, and repeated
the process until the cases failed – in other words – until I couldn’t reload them anymore.
For this test, I tried to keep everything as “normal” as possible. What
I mean by that is that I tried to use boringly pedestrian data, components, and equipment to load and shoot the rounds in this test. There’s
nothing exotic here.
The splits start out tiny – less than 1/16th of an inch long. You can barely
see them, but they’re easy to feel if you run your fingernail around the
case mouth (see figure 4 to see one of the tiny splits). The first couple of
times I detected these tiny splits, I tried loading the case one more time.
Although the rounds with the tiny splits fired and performed normally,
the extracted cases showed significant (about 3/8” long) cracks like the
one in Figure 2. After seeing what happened when I loaded cases that
were starting to split, I decided to “retire” the remaining cases at the
first sign of splitting.
I employed a single stage Hornady L-N-L Classic press along with a Lee
3-die carbide pistol die set to load 142gr jacketed bullets over a medium
(7.5 grain) charge of Blue Dot for a velocity of about 850 FPS. I flared
each case a ‘normal’ amount before seating the bullets, and finished
each round with a light roll crimp. I chose Blue Dot because I had about
a quarter of a bottle left over from another project.
I fired the rounds from a Smith & Wesson pre-Model 10, pencil-barrel,
six-shot K-Frame revolver made in the 1950’s - when it comes to .38s,
that’s about as ‘standard’ as you can get (see Figure 2).
I started with 12 once-fired Remington (R-P headstamp) .38 Special cases – six were plain brass, and six were nickel plated brass. I used both
brass and nickel-plated brass because I wanted to see if one lasted longer than the other. I loaded and shot all 12 cases until they failed.
Figure 4 – Note the small split at the case mouth. This was the first indication of failure
GOAL News Print Edition
18
Club News - Worcester
Worcester Pistol and Rifle Club Monthly Business Meeting
February 5, 2015
President Al Bonofiglio opened the meeting at 7:00
pm
Pledge of Allegiance
Reports:
Secretary – Ann Kerouac was absent
Treasurer’s Report – Mike Swett was absent
Membership – Brian Frappier
Membership stands at 798.
To date, we have only had 360 Members renew for
2015.
Please remember to check the online calendar for
updates.
State Rep Matthew Beaton of Shrewsbury has resigned to accept the post of Secretary of Executive
Office of Environmental Affairs.
Reminder: All training events have to be scheduled.
Members wishing to conduct a training event must
coordinate with the XO. Any non-standard training
must have E-Board approval. Contact Bill Hardell
for any additions or deletions to the calendar. You
can use the link from the club website under the
“Club Officers” tab. Any additions / corrections
need to be made two weeks out so we can get them
posted online.
Retiring State Rep. George Peterson of Grafton has
been named as Commissioner of the Dept. of Fish
and Game.
The League is looking into the possibility of expanding the paraplegic deer hunt.
Mike, the Raffle Guy – Mike Burchman
Mike explained the Monthly and the Big Raffles.
Competitive Shooting
Worcester Pistol Team – Tim Wells was absent
Pin Shoot – no report
IDPA – Bill Thorpe
Executive Officer Report – Bill Hardell
OLD BUSINESS –
Calendar Events
NEW BUSINESS –
We have the 2015 calendars on line and in the clubhouse. Individuals conducting training classes
must contact Bill Hardell. We will be adding additional training events throughout the year. Please
review the calendar and contact Bill Hardell with
any changes and or corrections.
Dave Morin made the motion that the Club purchases a table at the cost of $245.00. Motion was seconded and the motion was approved unanimously.
Reminder: All training events have to be scheduled.
Members wishing to conduct a training event must
coordinate with the XO. Any non-standard training
must have E-Board approval. Contact Bill Hardell
for any additions or deletions to the calendar. You
can use the link from the club website 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:
The next Work Party is scheduled for 02/15/15.
President’s Message – Al Bonofiglio
1. Shooters seem to be using the target hangers on
the indoor range.
2. The First Aid training for our Range Safety Officers
is still in the works. Since we have about 20 people,
we will plan to run two courses. Jim Colonese will
teach the class. John Hinson will order the materials from the Red Cross. Tom LaRoche can get us
an emergency defibrillator (Phillips Heart Start) at
a cost of $880.00
3. We would like to have a slideshow at the100th
Anniversary Party. Ann is scanning all the photos
we have from years ago and will collect more from
Members.
4. We have met with a representative from a company that installs sound absorption materials. He
sealed the door into the range and just that brought
the sound down by 8 decibels. So if we can now add
sound absorption inside the range, the levels will go
down even more. Charlie is researching companies
and materials and will present at the next E-Board
meeting.
5. We are installing new software for the security
system. This will give us the ability to do more without the need to contact the security company.
6. Tom LaRoche found a trophy from 1946 that
needs repair. If you or someone you know can take
on the project, we’d appreciate it.
GOAL Report – Jon Green was absent
Worcester County League – Dave Morin
Last months meeting was held at the Singletary Rod
and Gun Club. Twenty-seven Clubs were present.
Singletary President John Meserve gave an overview of the Club and said it has a full membership
and a waiting list at this time. They attribute this to
their youth programs.
Bill Davis, District Supervisor for the Mass Wildlife
Central District, noted that Environmental Police
are following leads relating to a major dumping
at the Little Chauncy Pond access at the Westboro
WMA Bill’s full report can be viewed in the February
issue of the Sportsmen’s News.
After a public hearing, the Fisheries and Wildlife
Board voted in favor of a Youth Deer Hunt to be held
the 4th Saturday after Labor Day.
Pertaining to bear regulations, the Board voted in
favor of expanding the harvest to include all of Massachusetts and also to include the shotgun season
Pistol & Rifle Club
on deer with slugs only. The deer and bear regulations will take effect in 2015.
The next New Member Orientation will take place in
April 2015, if we have openings. We will not know
how many openings will be available until after the
April 2, 2015 Monthly Meeting. Anyone interested
in Membership should send in a signed and dated
Application for Membership. When we receive this
application the name will be added to a list for that
Orientation in 2015 by the date we receive it.
Please remember to check the online calendar for
updates.
April 2015
January and February are always tough due to
weather. The match for February has been canceled, but they will have a mini match indoors for
the volunteers.
Steel Plate Challenge – no report
John Root spoke about the Library Telescope Program, where Astronomical telescopes are placed in
Town Libraries. John is the Coordinator for all of
Massachusetts. The Worcester Public Library has
one scope now, but more are needed. John Root
made the motion that the Club purchase two telescopes for $700.00. Motion seconded by John Hinson. Motion was approved unanimously.
Question – Has any consideration been made concerning more lighting down range? Al said that the
sound absorption project must be done first. Then
we will have an electrician look into more lighting.
Good and Welfare of the Club
John Hinson - Always carry a defensive flashlight
Al - When on the indoor range, make sure the door
is shut completely so the ventilation system works
properly.
Meeting adjourned at 7:36 pm
_________________________________________
Monthly Business Meeting
March 5, 2015
President Al Bonofiglio opened the meeting at 7:00
pm
Pledge of Allegiance
Reports:
Secretary – Ann Kerouac
Ann read the report from the February meeting.
Treasurer’s Report – Mike Swett
Mike presented an accounting of the Club’s current funds, as well as what expenditures have been
made since our last general meeting.
Membership – Brian Frappier
Membership stands at 798.
To date, we have only had 447 Members renew for
2015. That breaks down to 393 Regular Members
and 54 Life Members. At this time last year we had
600 renewed.
FOBS - We still have 1 Member who have paid their
$5.00 for the FOB, but haven’t picked it up. We still
have 23 Members who haven’t paid anything for a
FOB and don’t have one – and therefore can no longer access the Club property. Twelve of them have
renewed for 2015.
The next New Member Orientation will take place in
April 2015, if we have openings. We will not know
how many openings will be available until after the
April 2, 2015 Monthly Meeting. Anyone interested
in Membership should send in a signed and dated
Application for Membership. When we receive this
application the name will be added to a list for that
Orientation in 2015 by the date we receive it. We
now have 50 Applications on the list and 50 emails
from people who say they will send one in.
Executive Officer Report – Bill Hardell
Calendar Events
We have the 2015 calendars on line and in the clubhouse. Individuals conducting training classes
must contact Bill Hardell. We will be adding additional training events throughout the year. Please
review the calendar and contact Bill Hardell with
any changes and or corrections.
Indoor / Outdoor Ranges:
The next Work Party is on 04/12/15.
President’s Message – Al Bonofiglio
1. Al is working with Wachusett Country Club for the
100th Anniversary Party. We are trying to accommodate as many Members as possible. More details
will follow.
2. New software for the security system has been
installed and is working properly. We will need to
spend a bit more money so that a second user is
able to log onto the system. It will also allow Brian
to monitor, as well as make changes without having
to contact the security company.
3. Jon Caparso is still looking into a new design
for the outdoor range stands. Since Jon Green has
been to a lot of the Clubs, he (Jon Caparso) will contact Jon Green for input.
4. We have had to replace a couple of the heating elements for the infrared heaters in the indoor range.
It is not currently known who did it, nor how it happened, but somebody broke a couple of them.
GOAL Report – Jon Green
ATF is looking to take away the exemption for the
SS109 and the 183 type 556 ammo. Our voices have
been heard. Keep up the pressure – it’s working.
With regard to the Scholastic Pistol Program, there
will be an introductory program on April 4th. The
Mini Steel challenge is for boys and girls ages 12 and
up. Fulltime college students are also allowed to
compete.
GOAL is in a BIG fundraising mode right now:
Big Bang raffle tickets are available – five guns will
be raffled off. Tickets are 1 for $10.00, 3 for $20.00
or 10 for $50.00.
There is a yearlong membership drive going on now.
Anyone who brings a new member to GOAL gets his/
her name entered in the raffle for a great firearm.
Mass Supreme Court ruled that stun guns are not
protected under the 2nd Amendment. GOAL just
filed a Bill that would allow non-prohibited people,
aged 18 and older to possess an electrical defensive
tools such as a stun gun.
The Suppressor Bill is gaining a lot of traction. GOAL
is now working with the American Suppressor Association. Currently 46 States allow possession of the
devices. GOAL is working to educate the Legislators
of the benefits of allowing lawful citizens to use suppressor to be better neighbors. This Spring Jon will
be working with the Gun Parlor and WPRC E-Board
to schedule a mini Legislative Firearm Safety Day,
which will focus on the myths of firearm suppressors. Central Mass Representatives, Senators and
Town Council will be invited to try pulling the trigger of a suppressed gun.
American Suppressor Association will be signing on
a National Association of Medical Doctors, which
will advocate that suppressor use is a health benefit.
Worcester County League – Dave Morin
Last months meeting was held at the Maspenock
Rod and Gun Club in Milford. Twenty-four Clubs
were present.
Maspenock’s League Delegate LA Jones gave an
overview of the Club’s grounds and their activities.
Bill Davis, District Supervisor for the Mass Wildlife Central District, noted a number of personnel
changes within Fisheries & Wildlife, and also the
activities the District has been able to complete despite the deep snow. Bill’s full report can be viewed
in the March issue of the Sportsmen’s News.
The League met with Senator Ann Gobi and Representative Kimberly Ferguson concerning the filing
of many Bills effecting sportsmen and gun owners.
The Bills should have house numbers by the end of
March.
Also at the end of March is the Worcester County
League’s Annual Appreciation Banquet at the Wachusett Country Club.
Don’t forget our annual firearms raffle. Winners
names will be drawn at the Banquet.
Next meeting will be on March 20, 2015 at the Fitchburg Sportsman’s Club.
Mike, the Raffle Guy – Mike Burchman
Mike explained the Monthly and the Big Raffles.
Competitive Shooting
Worcester Pistol Team – Tim Wells
Currently, the team has five wins and ten losses with
only four matches left for the Season. Schedules
are posted on the Club bulletin board for anyone
who would like to participate. Practice opens at 6
pm and the matches start at 7 pm. Only the top five
scores count, so you can’t hurt the team if you’re
not an outstanding marksman.
Pin Shoot – no report
IDPA – Al Bonofiglio for Bill Thorpe
There will be new rules effective March 1, 2015. Two
new divisions will be created - one for compact guns
and one NFS (not for score). Virtually any handgun
can be used in the NFS division, so this should encourage more people to use what they carry.
There was a record turnout with eighteen shooters
at this months practice. Monthly practice is a great
way to be introduced to the sport. The March 7th
match is cancelled due to snow on the range, but
we will be conducting a mini-match on the indoor
range for those who had volunteered to staff the
March 7th match.
Bill repaired the broken wooden trophy and will
bring it to the April meeting.
Steel Plate Challenge – no report
OLD BUSINESS –
John Hinson will be contacting the Red Cross to order the training materials for the First Aid Training.
Ann read the thank you letter from the Aldrich Astronomical Society for our donation of $700.00 for
the Library Telescope Program.
Anyone desiring to post on the bulletin board must
contact Bill Hardell for permission.
NEW BUSINESS –
Mike Swett actually wrote the check to the Aldrich
Astronomical Society for $750.00, rather than the
$700.00 that was approved by Club vote. The additional $50.00 is now approved unanimously.
We received a request for funding assistance from
the Auburn High School. They are the “We the
People….” Massachusetts State Champions and are
now raising funds so that the students may represent Massachusetts at the National Level.
Tom made a motion to donate $500.00. John moved
to amend the amount to $1500.00. The amendment
to the motion was seconded and approved unanimously. The motion to donate $1500.00 was approved unanimously.
Charlie moved to spend no more than $5000.00 to
purchase and install sound deadening features to
the indoor range. Motion was seconded.
Charlie summarized the plan, which will include installing sound deadening material along both walls
and parts of the ceiling.
After discussion, motion was approved unanimously.
Q. Last month there was discussion about possibly
adding lighting down the indoor range – has there
been any movement on that? A. We will investigate that after the sound deadening materials are
installed.
Good and Welfare of the Club
Tom received a letter from the Worcester Historical Society thanking us for the donation of the rifle
cleaning kit – does anyone know anything about
this?
John Hinson – if you need a lawyer for a gun-related
issue, be sure to get a lawyer who is familiar with
gun laws. Contact GOAL for referrals.
Pick up your brass! This is very important.
Meeting adjourned at 7:54 pm
33 Pullman Street - Worcester, MA 01606 | (T) 508.926.8730 | (F) 508.853.0843
[email protected] | www.pullmanarms.com