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Announcements:You can email the Association by clicking this link: 2011 Meeting Dates The Association's Constitution. Click HERE By-Laws up date Click Here Shortcut to Membership Form Here The 2011 Montana State Shooting Schedule: Click Here Need to know about gun care and all that rust on the muzzel: Click Here Junior Shooters Diary: Click Here 19 December 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana 19 December 2011 Meagher County Sportsmen's Association Meeting Minutes. Pledge of Allegiance lead by George Kirkwood, President, and meeting called to order. Members present: Mike Vennard, Pat McCoy, George Kirkwood, Arnie Blair, Curtis Kerr (prospective member), Tim Allen, Dean Anderson, Steve Hicks, Don Doig, Otto Ohlson, Boyd Briggs, Dan Rader, Ron Coleman, Karen Coleman Minutes of previous meeting read by Mike Vennard. Pat McCoy motion to accept, Arnie Blair 2 nd , motion passed Directors Meeting of 17 November 2011 minutes read by Mike Vennard and approved by membership. (see attached) Treasures Report read by Mike Vennard, Pat McCoy motion to accept, Ron Coleman 2 nd , motion passed. Appreciation letter to Ben Forkn for his generous donation to the Association Jr. Marksman program read by Mike Vennard and approved by membership. (see attached) Committee Reports Pat McCoy reported on the status of the Jr Marksman program, noting that one junior has dropped out and the rest are progressing nicely. Pat McCoy also reported that the indoor traveling target installation has been completed and is in operation and being used by the juniors on a weekly basis. Correspondence There was no correspondence. Old Business George Kirkwood called for nominations to replace several Officers on the Board of Directors, noting that most Officers had been in office way longer that allowed by the Constitution, thus puting the organization at risk. After much discussion the following were nominated: President – Don Babcock There was considerable discussion about spring drainage flooding the outdoor bathroom. Several solutions were suggested and finally Tim Allen said he could take a look at the situation and probably provide the necessary equipment for a late spring 2012 solution. New Business Mike Vennard presented the new 2012 budget. (see attached) Mike explained the various categories and the 2011 estimates and actual costs; he then answered a couple questions. Arnie Blair made a motion to accept, Tim Allen 2 nd , budget accepted. Several Constitutional Changes have been presented (see attached)[constitutional changes posted below on this web page]. Mike Vennard read and explained the reasons behind the proposals. It was noted that this is the first reading, and the Constitution with changes will be left on the board at the range as well as being posted on the web site in order the membership have a chance to review them. The changes will be voted on at the January 2012 meeting. The Association meeting dates for 2012 were presented, and with no furthur discussion Mike Vennard made a motion to accept, George Kirkwood 2 nd , dates accepted. It was decided that for the January meeting if you wanted to show your gun, older than 1941 manufacture, you could do so at the January meeting. Arnie Blair made a motion to Adjourn, Ron Coleman 2 nd , motion passed, meeting adjourned to view the examples of military rifles brought in by members. 19 December 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana During the December Meeting several changes to the MCSA Constitution were proposed. Below are the changes excerpted from the complete Constitution [which may be viewd by clicking the appropriate link above] These changes will be voted upon at the next general meeting to be held on January 19, 2012 at the Range Facility. Items in Bold are to be deleted and replaced by wording in Italic. Proposed Changes to: Constitution of Article: I NAME no changes Article: II PURPOSE C. To issue bulletins to inform each member as to major problems and issues affecting the M.C.S.A. members and/or to act report on proposed actions and pending legislation, so the membership may make its will known to the duly elected representatives. Article: III MEMBERSHIP A. There shall be three four classes of Membership. 4. Daily Membership. Daily Membership does not have a vote. C. Annual membership dues shall include one of the following categories: 1. per individual membership 2. per individual membership with class B range access 3. per family membership 4. per family membership with class A range access D. Annual and daily membership fees shall be recommended by the Board of Directors and then voted on by the members at the December meeting. Article: IV MEMBERSHIP DUES AND FEES DATE A. All dues for the Meagher County Sportsmen's Association and range access fees are due and payable on January 2nd each year with a grace period extending until March 1st. Fees and dues become delinquent on March 2nd. New membership dues run from January to January and will not may be prorated. This does not apply to Class C (One Day) range access fees. Article: V MEAGHER COUNTY SPORTSMEN'S SHOOTING RANGE ACCESS A. There shall be three classes of range access which may not be separate from membership in the Meagher County Sportsmen's Association 3. Class C range access fee: per individual and shall provide access to the shooting range facilities for ONE DAY. This fee would apply to visitors other than first time prospective members accompanying all other class of members. Article: VI OFFICERS no changes Article VII MEETINGS A. The members shall meet at a time and place designated by the President on a third Tuesday at least once a quarter and should include December and January. Article VIII ELECTIONS No changes Article: IX AMENDENTS TO CONSTITUTION no changes Article: X COMMITTEES no changes Article: XI BOARD OF DIRECTORS nn changes Article: XII AUDIT OF FINANCIAL CONDITION no changes Article: XIII BYLAWS no changes
17 November 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana A meeting of the MCSA Directors was convened at the City Offices conference room with the express purpose to discuss and select liability insurance for the coming year. Directors present were Mike Vennard, Arnie Blair, Jerry Churchill, George Kirkwood and Pat McCoy. Two policies were under consideration, one possible renewal from Locton Insurance sponsored by NRA, and Outdoorsinsurance.com, Inc. Pat McCoy, having experience in these matters, outlined each policy noting membership concerns, costs and particular liabilities. After discussion the concensus was we, to have the best coverage for the Association as a whole and at the best cost, should go with Outdoorsinsurance. After the decision was made, and voted on, the Directors disbanded. 15 August 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana 15 August 2011 Meagher County Sportsmen's Association Meeting Minutes Pledge of Allegiance and opening of the meeting – George Kirkwood. Members Present: Mike Vennard, George Kirkwood, Pat McCoy, Don Doig, Arnold Blair, Dick Witt, Jim Rassler, Steve Hicks, Bill and Joann Cummins, Laura Ellington, one other. Mike Vennard read the minutes from the 18 April 2011 meeting. Dick Witt made a motion to accept, Jim Rassler 2 nd . Motion Passed. Mike Vennard read the Treasurers report for April to July. Pat McCoy made motion to accept, Jim Rassler 2 nd . Motion Passed. Mike Vennard noted the lack of monies, budgeted or otherwise in the General Account was worrisome, to the extent that he is going to refuse to sign any checks for any sum unless approved by the membership. He felt that spending is not regulated and that from the initial 9 thousand dollars in the account, and including yearly income, the organization has spent it down to less than 2 thousand dollars. Mike believes with impending commitments of insurance, rent and general expenditures such as electricity and propane the organization will be broke shortly. Pat McCoy asked if the construction account, which it was determined at 7 thousand dollars plus, is tied legally to just range construction/improvements. Mikes answer was no, only in intent. There for Pat concluded that the Association was much better off than Mike had portrayed. Mike concluded that IF the membership wished for him to sign checks for items of uncertain significance he may do so, but with complete reservation, and to tap into the construction account will jeopardize future construction projects. No committee reports. No correspondence. Old Business. Pat McCoy explained the NRA Grant had been received for purchase of 5 pistols [pistols were presently on display to the attending members] to be used in the Personal Protection Class as well as a Pistol Class. He also indicated that the pistols could be used by the membership for personal practice and training. During the explanation Pat noted that NRA money does come back to help the local clubs and thanked everyone who supports Friends of NRA. George Kirkwood noted that the next F of NRA banquet will be held in Helena in late September. Pat McCoy reported on the FW&P grant for $1100 the Association received to purchase and install steel targets at various positions around the range. These targets would range from small gongs at 100 yards to large gongs the size of the black area on appropriate targets for distances up to 1000 yards. It was noted that John Dracon had taken his truck and trailer to Great Falls and brought the steel down to WSS and delivered it to Tim Allen who will cut the various shapes with his plasma cutter. Pat then suggested that several members get together to determine just where the targets will be place, and then soon place them, hopefully before the freeze. When installation starts there is a full size antelope [less legs] donated by Ron Coleman which can be placed also. Pat McCoy reported on the indoor target carriers project being nearly complete. Mike Vennard has gotten in contact with Brian Fisher to see about getting long reach handles being bent out of electrical conduit, and along with some long cardboard being obtained, should put the carriers in business. George Kirkwood remarked on action needed to be taken to drain the front of the building. For during the spring thaw, the outside toilet becomes flooded and needs to be drained. This happened twice this year with the late spring. George suggested a cloth covered 4 inch drain pipe dug in the ground and angled to the west drainage, covered with gravel. Clean Up of facilities. It was pointed out to the members present that the two clean up days were quite successful, and a big thanks to everyone who helped out.
The cases of .22 ammo for the Jr shooters has arrived and the savings is substantial when compaired to the continuing of small purchases for the same purpose. It is expected that the purchase will extend over the next four years. New Business Pat McCoy proposed an indoor Pistol shooting Class be presented to the membership and public, which would be held in late October or November. It was agreed that an ad be placed to see what kind of response is gotten on the proposal. Pat remarked that the rifle class from last winter required to run with a minimum of 5 students, so will this class. Sight in days for this year will be on the 2 nd and 9 th of October. Both are a Sunday and will be from 9 am to 1 pm. Your help would be appreciated. Pat proposed a program designed to create interest in the meetings by having the membership bring a gun, if they might have one, in a particular category such as Military, large caliber [above .4], antique, etc. After a brief discussion it was decided that for the December meeting members could bring a military weapon if they wished. Steve Hicks made a request that the club send out a brochure on being a Fully Informed Jury member. He said that he would provide the brochures at no cost and the subject of the brochure is your rights as a jury member and 2 nd amendments rights as well. Steve Hicks made a motion for inclusion of the brochure in the end of the year letter, Pat McCoy 2 nd , motion passed. Motion to Adjourn by Arnold Blair, 2 nd by Steve Hicks, Motion Passed. 18 June 2011- 16 July 2011 Work Days Scheduled, White Sulphur Spring Two work days this summer. Both extreamily sucsesful with many and varied small and large projects completed. For those who helped with work on 18 June we would like to recognize the following: And the crew who responded on the 16th of July consisted of: To all a heardy thanks for a job well done. 1 June 2011, Work Day Scheduled, White Sulphur Springs On June 18th from 8:00am to ?? a work day will be held at the range. Clean up, moving 100 fence, and installation of indoor target carriers are the primary objectives. Shovels, fence tools, and gloves will be need for the outdoor projects, and step ladders, drill/screw guns, tape measures, misc small wrenches (for 1/4" to 1/2" nuts) will be needed for indoors. We will try to finish by 1:00pm, but may break for lunch (bring your own) then finish up in the afternoon. 20 May 2011, Legislative Recap, Helena Mt.Couple positives, and couple others from this session. The Governor signed HB159 into law, so we shouldn't have to worry about FWP making lead bullets illegal. Sound suppressors still are illegal when hunting, but may now be taken into the filed for target practice. The Governor vetoed HB271, a bill to allow concealed carry in the .6% of Montana in which it has not already been legal for twenty years, that is within city limits. Other bills never got out of committee, including one to eliminate two of the limitations on where a person carrying concealed with a permit may do so; banks and restaurants which serve alcohol. As always, contact your legislators to thank them, or express concerns to be addressed in the future. --Pat McCoy Mayl 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana Artilcle to appear in the MCNews Paper Thirteen members attended the April 18 th meeting of the Meagher County Sportsmen's Association (MCSA), to hear guest speaker Larry Copenhaver from the Montana Wildlife Federation. Mr. Copenhaver reported the on the recent decision by the U.S. government to delist the gray wolf in Montana. This will allow state control of wolves, including another hunt this Fall. He also reported that the access to ditches in Montana was still in jeopardy, as the legislature was still in session. There will be two work days at the range this year, with the first one being the morning of June 18 th . Hopefully we can install the new indoor target carrier system at that time. Normal clean up and maintenance will also be done, and now that the range boundary project is complete, locations for future target berms and metal gong targets can be established. The indoor shooting season has ended, and weather has been wet enough to limit the outdoor shooting so far this Spring. Hopefully things will dry out a little, and everyone can get out to the range to start practicing for the Fall hunting seasons. There will be a few Tuesday evenings after things warm up, when we will be introducing the junior shooters to smallbore shooting in the wind (outdoors). Adults are encouraged to bring their .22 rifle and have some fun on those nights also. More to follow on exact dates. Smallbore outdoor shooting is a real test when the wind blows, and is great inexpensive practice for hunters. For more information on any of the organization's activities see the website at http://www.meaghercosportsmen.com/. 18 April 2011 Meagher County Sportsmen's Association Meeting MinutesPledge of Allegence and opening of the meeting – George Kirkwood. Members Present: Mike Vennard, George Kirkwood, Pat McCoy, Don Doig, Tim McCann, Arnold Blair, John Dracon, Dick Witt, Daryl Mesecher, Jim Richard, Ben Forkin, Keith Forkin, Don Babcock. Guest: Larry Copenhaver, Montana Wildlife Federation. Mike Vennard read the minutes from the January [Annual] meeting. Arnold Blair made a motion to accept, John Dracon 2 nd . Motion Passed Mike Vennard read the Treasurers report for January to 15 March. After Mike made a recalculation of the present total, Pat McCoy made motion to accept, Ben Forkin 2 nd . Motion Passed. No committee reports. No correspondence. Old Business. Pat McCoy reported on the Personal Protection Class. There were 8 students in the class which were taught the fundamentals of personal protection with a firearm. All the students completed the class successfully and gave complimentary comments on the course. The course took in $420, had $120 in ammo expenditures and the students paid for their own class materials. Mike Vennard reported on the reinstatement of the 501(c)7 status. This particular status does not allow us to grant tax free donations. We are a reinstated 501(c)7. Pat McCoy reported on the indoor target carriers. Keith Forkin has been asked to weld up the parts of the carriers as a school shop project, he has obtained the necessary materials and should have the welding done by mid May. At that point a crew needs to be assembled to install the carriers on the stations indoors. A resolution was presented for consideration. It was resolved that MCSA will continue to provide Hunter and Bow Safety classes as it has done in the past. Without further discussion the resolution was passed unanimously. Resolution 2011-2. Mike Vennard reported on the Association's ability to stick to the budget. As of this meeting the Association has taken in just over 300 dollars more that it has spent. Several items not budgeted for, mostly end of last year, have rolled over and were not budgeted for, thus the discrepancy. Mike pointed out that spending will have to be curtailed on general items unless measures be taken to increase income, measures not in the works at the present. The membership though that Mike was being overly conservative and acting like some Republicans and Tea Partyists in manhandling the budget. Pat McCoy suggested that there are several ways to increase income such as raffles, competitions and other such fund raisers. Mike noted that these should be considered and suggested the topic be revisited at the next meeting. Mike Vennard noted that the realignment of the range boundaries project has been completed and our 66 acres has been adjusted to reflect the direction of fire. Pat McCoy noted that we have yet to receive the monies Friends of NRA have granted for the personal protection class pistols. Friends of NRA have been contacted to little avail. It is not sure when we will get the check. Arnold Blair reported that he had one target frame left to build for the new single leg target holders. Yeah, Arnie. New Business Open House. It was decided to postpone this years open house and possibly make it a club function in late August. The subject will be revisited next meeting. Pat McCoy presented a Grant he has prepared for FW&P's range improvement program. The grant will get us monies for steel to crate silhouette targets at appropriate meter distance and circular targets representing the black of actual targets a yardage distances. Along with the paperwork a notarized resolution is need in this grant process. The resolution was read, motion to accept by Mike Vennard, 2 nd John Dracon, and approved by the membership present. Resolution 2011-1. Clean Up of facilities. Several summer projects have been suggested. Drainage, snow drift control [fencing], barbwire re-route as well as general cleanliness. George Kirkwood has located 4 inch perforated drain pipe at a reasonable price, and Mike Vennard suggested the first line of snow fence [orange plactic] be put in the barbwire fence on the west side of the range. With the budge as it is a question about the whereabouts of monies for the projects was made. It was noted that the monies would come from the Construction fund and not the general fund. There was an additional discussion of backstop berms at the 100, 200, 300 and possibly 400 yard positions for capturing lead. A RR tie revetment with dirt infill be put up at those positions. Some of this work will need the use of a tractor or backhoe or bobcat skid steer. McCoy mentioned that he could see about getting one. Dates for work days have been set the 18 th of June and the 16 of July. Specific projects forthcoming. Pat McCoy presented an opportunity to purchase a large amount of .22 ammo for the junior program. The ammo is target quality and at a reduced cost of 20 to 30 percent. It was noted that over future time the difference in cost should increase and that the price works out to be just about $2 a box. As the juniors are charged a dollar a box [in order they have a commitment in the program] the overall cost to the Association is additionally reduced, while providing an inexpensive source of ammo for the Junior. Again, considering the budget, where is the upfront money coming from? As this is an exceptional opportunity it is presented to the membership to see if they want to take advantage, as there is still money in the bank, just not in the budget. Arnold Blair made a motion to purchase, Ben Forkin 2 nd , motion passed. The amount decided on was to purchase one thousand dollars worth, this should last at least 4 seasons. Mike Vennard noted that the Community Expo is coming up at the end of the month. We normally attend at no cost to us, but we need to provide a door prize. Mike suggested a mini-Mag flashlight, useable, desirable and inexpensive at $8 each. Without discussion and motion a voice vote of yes was made for the purchase. AGAIN it was noted that the Association Officers are mostly illegal and that we all need to be replaced and at least some empty positions need to be filled. On a motion by Mike Vennard and second by George Kirkwood, Pat McCoy was vote in as Reporter. The remainder of the officers were retained in a unanimous voice vote. Guest Speaker Larry Copenhaver from the Montana Wildlife Federation was introduced by President George Kirkwood. Mr Copenhaver gave an overview of the Federation and it operations, it involvement in many policies with and in opposition to FW&P and the Federations need for continued support. He noted that the Wolf discussion has been resolved with Montana now in a position to control populations. As for the status of the Tenderfoot land acquisition and exchange he noted that the funding is at risk and there are no conclusions as yet. He additionally made remarks on the ditch problem and how this may affect stream access. At the conclusion of Mr Copenhaver's talk, Daryl Mesecher made a motion to adjourn, Pat McCoy 2 nd , passed. ADJOURN. 12 April 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana Artilcle to appear in the MCNews Paper, week of April 11th 2011 Recently 8 individuals completed an NRA Personal Protection in the Home course sponsored by the Meagher County Sportsmen's Association (MCSA). This is the second year the course has been offered, and will be available again next Spring. It covers information needed by anyone who may have a firearm to use for personal defense, including how and when to use the firearms, and the legal ramifications of the use of deadly force. Watch for more information in this column in January. The indoor shooting season for the junior shooters has ended, with all shooters having achieved portions of their long term goals to reach the Distinguished Expert status. Five shooters went to Big Timber on March 19 th to participate in the Montana Indoor Sate Championships. All gained valuable experience, with Kelsey Lopp, Zach Ripple, Wylan Lopp, and Clay Ripple all shooting individual target scores which were good enough for various levels of qualification in the Distinguished program. Josh Mesecher shot a personal best 427 out of 600 to lead the team, and combined with his score from the March 5 th match, he is the top junior shooter in the club for this year. We will shoot outdoors four or five Tuesday evenings when the weather warms up, and perhaps take a team to the Montana State Games in Billings this July. Indoor season will resume about October 1 st , and anyone wanting information on the program can contact Mike Vennard or Pat McCoy (547-2437). The Spring meeting of the MCSA will be held at 7:00pm on Monday evening, April 18 th , at the range. All members and visitors are welcome. Discussion will include possible addition of up to 10 more metal gong targets for the outdoor range. For those currently using the range, please be sure to pick up any targets you put out when you are finished shooting, including unbroken clay targets. Also, be careful where you drive, as “mud season” is upon us (but Summer and drier weather will come). Programs for both adults and youths in basic rifle and pistol marksmanship are available if there is enough interest. The club does have some firearms available to be used in these programs if you don't have your own. For more information contact any club officer listed on http://www.meaghercosportsmen.com/. 9 March 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana Note: this is part of the article that will appear in the Meagher Co News the week of Mar 9th. The remainder is the report on Jr. Shooters in Big Timber, below. MCSA is also currently hosting an NRA Personal Protection in the Home class. Eight local folks are learning how and when to legally use firearms in for self defense. This is the second year the class has been offered, and is intended to be offered every Spring if enough interest is shown. Other classes available if there is enough interest are Basic Rifle Marksmanship (for both adults and youths), and Basic Pistol Marksmanship (target style shooting). Warmer breezes are blowing and the snow is beginning to disappear. Time to think about finding your way to the range to get some early practice before next hunting season. For more information about MCSA check the web page at http://www.meaghercosportsmen.com/.6 March 2011, Big Timber, Montana Junior away match. Note: this is part of the article that will appear in the Meagher Co News the week of Mar 9th.
Local Intermediate Juniors (age 15 to 17) were led by Zach Ripple who scored a very good 402 out of 600 in his first ever rifle match. He was closely followed by Josh Mesecher with a 401. After taking a year off from Shooting Kelsie Lopp-Oneil is putting Three Sub-Junior shooters (under age 14) also attended their first competition. Clay Ripple fired a 130 while Wylan Lopp had 170. Jake Wendt led the younger shooters with a good first match score of 267. All are first year shooters, and will be valuable members of the team in future years.
Just a note to let you know that the link to the 2011 MT HP, Small-bore and Pistol schedule is active at HTTP://www.mtrpa.org [click link] web page. Look in the lower right corner – click the HP-SB-Pistol link and you should see the latest version of the schedule, including last minute up dates.
The difficulty between the original boundaries of the shooting range and the actual usage of the property has been resolved. After GPSing boundary points by Jerry Churchill and Mike Vennard, to make the 66 acres under lease from the Jackson Ranch more viable to planned and actual usage, Mike Kakuk composed a Lease Amendment which George Kirkwood, Association President and Scott Jackson, lease holder, signed, agreeing to the boundary realignment. The area under lease now encompasses a narrow and longer piece of property, ranging from just where the road into the range widens to become the parking lot and extending north easterly up the canyon from the shooting line to the top of the bare hill, approximately 1000 yards from the shooting apron. The area originally extended about four to five acres wide and 10 plus acres deep with the southern border at the calving shed to the right of the road and you enter, this box was at a 25 degree cant north and south. With this change shooting will now be contained on leased property and we can extend shooting distances based on the range house orientation out to safe 1000 yard distances. Thanks to all for their efforts in this project.
Approximate location of range boundries.
New Thermostat controls installed. Due to several instances of members walking off and leaving the heaters running, costing the Association several hundred dollars to refill the propane tan,. the board decided to install mechanical timers on each heater. The timers will limit the operation of the heater to one hour before someone has to tend the timer for additional heating. This will hopefully eliminate the heaters from running for days or possibly a week at a time. There is a heater timer installed next to the thermostats which operate a heater.
14 February 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana; Friends of NRA Banquet reservations: The Association has received the NRA banquet reservation form from Bridger Friends. They will host a banquet with several raffles, speakers, entertainment and did I mention raffles. Click Here to download the reservation form, as well as to where to mail the form. Details on the banquet times and location are contained on the form. 12 February 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana; MCSA Newspaper article. The Meagher County Sportsmen's Association (MCSA) will offer an NRA Personal Protection in the Home class in March. This class if for adults (age 18 and older), and covers the basics of using firearms for personal protection. The class runs five Wednesday evenings in March, from 7:00pm to 9:30pm, plus about an hour on Saturday April 2. Cost is $60, with a $10 credit for MCSA members, and covers use of firearms, targets, ammunition, and instruction. You do not need to have your own firearm to take this class. Contact Pat McCoy at 547-2437 to register, or for more information. The junior rifle shooting program is heading into the most important part of the year, with the NRA Junior Sectionals to be held March 5 th in big Timer, and the Montana State Championships to be held there March 19 th . We expect to have at least half of the young shooters participate, and look for them to gain lots of good experience to help the team vie for a championship in the future. 2011 is a legislative year in Montana, and there are several bills being discussed which can impact firearms owners and usage. You can look up, and follow, the action at http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11/law0203w$.startup . Be sure to contact your legislators, Representative Harry Klock ( klock@mtintouch.net ), and Senator Dave Lewis ( davelewisd@aol.com ) to voice your concerns. They want your input. Spring is just around the corner (really, I promise) and hopefully the outdoor portion of the range will be getting more use. If you have ideas for improvement of the ranges, please contact any officer (www.meaghercosportsmen.com/).7 February 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana Correspondence received from Gary Marbut, president Montana Shooting Sports Association who is monorting this years Legislative Session is presented below. This is for informational purposes only and all opinions and comments are Mr. Marbut's alone. This information is provided as a service to the members of MCSA. If you wish to take personal action for or against any pending legislation you can contact Gary at the email address at the end of this article. Dear MSSA Friends, I'm just back from four days in Helena, duking it out in the Legislature over MSSA bills. I have good news to report, not-so-good news, and*action to request*. On Wednesday there were public hearings before the House Judiciary Committee on three bills. *HB 271,* to make it so a person does not need a concealed weapon permit to carry concealed inside the limits of a city or town IF the person is eligible to apply for a permit (of age, no criminal background, resident, gun safety training, etc.) For shorthand we call HB 271 "permitless carry." The Montana Human rights Network opposes all of our bills. This one was also opposed by police and lawyers on the public payroll. *More about this bill later - action needed NOW. HB 174*, to repeal prohibition on firearm sound reduction devices in field. FWP opposed this bill. However, *the House Judiciary Committee took "executive action" (also "exec" for short) on this bill and passed it out by 16-4. *It will now go to the full House for Second Reading. I'd expected HB 174 to be amended in Committee to continue the prohibition on hunting big game with suppressors, but according to the Legislature's Website, that didn't happen. Apparently the Committee remembered the testimony of proponents that there is no "fair chase" issue about shooting a big game animal with a suppressed hunting rifle, both as compared to archery, and that because hunting rifle bullets are supersonic the bullet arrives before any report of an unsuppressed rifle anyway - the animal is already shot before hearing any report. *HB 368*, to allow keeping firearm in parked vehicle or while on employer's business. This is the "parking lot storage" bill. Some employers make it a termination offense for an employee to have a firearm in their car in the employer's parking lot. The most difficult argument to overcome for this bill is that concerning the employer's property right to control what happens on the employer's property. The most successful counterargument is that the employee has a property right in his vehicle, and that this creates a bubble or enclave of property right for the employee within the employer's sphere of property right, PLUS the employee also has the RKBA to weigh in on his side. The terms of this bill also apply to a private vehicle used by an employee for company business, such as an outside sales person, a pizza deliveryman or a home health nurse. All of these people would be protected from firing for firearm in vehicle with HB 368. Under the terms of the bill, firearms would have to be out of view inside a locked vehicle. HB 368 was opposed by a LONG list of large employers or their organizations and associations, including the: Montana Chamber of Commerce, Montana Retail Association, Montana Petroleum Association, NorthWestern Energy, Montana Coal Council, Burlington Northern/Santa Fe, Motor Carriers of Montana, Billings Clinic, Montana Education Association and Montana Federation of Teachers, Montana Hospital Association, Crossroads Correctional Facility (private prison in Shelby), Montana Bankers Association, Montana Credit Unions, Montana Automobile Dealers Association, and one lady who didn't make much sense from the Montana Coalition Against Domestic Violence. *More about this bill later - action needed NOW. *On Thursday, we had three more bills before the House Judiciary Committee. *HB 355*, to award attorney fees and costs for person found not guilty for self defense. If you defend yourself but are charged with multiple crimes by some zealous prosecutor hoping to force you to plead guilty rather than sell your house to pay lawyers, this bill says that for any charges which are dropped, dismissed or for which you are exonerated your court costs and attorney fees would get paid out of the prosecutor's budget. This seems pretty simple to me. Prosecutors should not charge people with crimes they're not pretty sure they can win. However, the Montana County Attorneys Association testified at length about how this would be ruinous to the budgets of county attorneys (as if they don't ruin individuals financially). I suspect that the Judiciary Committee will be rather sympathetic with the claims of the county attorneys. I give this bill a 50-50 chance of getting out of committee. *HB 369*, to revise fish and game enforcement laws. The primary thrust of HB 369 is to require that FWP enforcement personnel must comply with all of the same requirement for arrest, search and seizure that deputy sheriffs, city police and the Montana Highway Patrol must comply with currently. Of course, FWP testified strenuously against HB 369, as did their surrogates the Montana Wildlife Association, the Montana Wardens Association and some others who pretty much always side with FWP (they have a "special relationship" with FWP, don't you know). FWP and surrogates testified that if HB 369 were to pass it would constitute an open invitation to every poacher in the World to come poach Montana because FWP wardens could never get another conviction, and the Montana wildlife resource will be quickly wiped out by these hoards of poachers. I predict that the soft Republicans on the Judiciary Committee will buy that argument and the bill will be tabled. *HB 384*, to revise carrying concealed weapon in prohibited places. This bill would exempt people with CWPs from the restrictions about "prohibited places" at 45-8-328, MCA., a nonsensical and badly conceived law. This bill was also opposed by cop types. *The committee took exec on HB 384 today and passed it by 12-8*. It will go to the House floor now for Second Reading. Friday, House State Administration Committee *HB 278*, to clarify and specify role of Home Guard. The "Purpose" section of the bill says: "The purpose of this part is to establish the Montana home guard as a volunteer community service apparatus in Montana to fill the gap between community service organizations, such as a neighborhood watch program and the Montana national guard, and to provide the state and its local communities with the ability to call upon trained and organized volunteers when necessary resources are otherwise unavailable. " It fleshes out existing laws to clarify organization and mission of Home Guard units. There was no opposition to HB 278 (well, the tinkerbell from the Montana Human Rights Network was there for comic relief but he was unable to articulate anything that got any traction). I predict the committee will pass HB 278. Gary Marbut, president Montana Shooting Sports Association 17 January 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana January 17, 2011 Meagher County Sportsmen's Association Meeting Minutes Pledge of Allegiance and call to order by George Kirkwood. Members present: George Kirkwood, Arnold Blair, Dean Andersen, Dan Fuller, Daryl Mesecher, Pat McCoy, Jerry Chruchill, Mike Vennard, Bill and Joann Cummins Minutes of the December 2010 meeting read by Mike Vennard, motion to accept Jerry Churchill, 2 nd Daryl Mesecher, motion passed. Treasures Report read by Mike Vennard, motion to accept Pat McCoy, 2 nd Jerry Churchill, motion passed. Additionally Mike Vennard presented to the membership the 2010 ‘End of Year' report. Mike noted that the association spent approximately $1400 more than it took in. It was also noted that the Association has a worth of approximately 355 thousand dollars. Mike Vennard then explained the tax status of the clubs 501(c)7. It appears that after attempting to submit an IRS postcard form 990, the IRS rejected the form, as the club not having a non-profit status. After over a weeks long sleuthing and waiting on the phone for the IRS it was discovered that proper procedures had not been followed in the 3 years after being granted a 501(c)7, and as a result 'end of year' reports had to be generated back to 2003, a form 8734 submitted along with corroborating materials, and all sent into the IRS. This had been done back in September of 2010. At present no answer has been received from IRS, so our tax status is in question. There were no Committee Reports. Old Business The second presentation of the changes to the Constitution were made, and with no further discussion Daryl Mesecher made a motion to accept, Arnold Blair 2 nd , motion passed. The second presentation of the proposed budget was made. Mike Vennard explained that the budget is an attempt to try and keep the spending less than we take in. But if the necessity of a major expenditure or other crisis occurs we do have reserve monies. Jerry Churchill made a motion to accept, Pat McCoy 2 nd , motion passed. Pat McCoy stated that he has had no offers to help on the overhead target carriers, but Arnold Blair will assist in building additional one legged target frames. No word has been received from Friends of NRA as to the status of the grant request for monetary assistance for Personal Protection Class pistols. Pat McCoy will put an ad in the paper for the upcoming Personal Protection Class. The change of boundary corners was presented to Mr Jackson by Arnold Blair. Mr Jackson was in agreement with the proposed changes, and paperwork was delivered to Mr Kakuk to produce an amendment to the Lease. New Business Pat McCoy mentioned that the State Legislature is now in session and this august body is to take up several gun related bill in the coming weeks. Links to the proposed bills are listed on the web page, and can be accessed through the web there. No Correspondence Motion to adjourn made by Arnold Blair, Pat McCoy 2 nd , motion passed. Adjourn 4 January 2011, White Sulphur Springs, Montana The announcement of a Personal Protection Class has been made. Anyone interested in attending should contact Pat McCoy at 547-2437. The class will run March 2,9,16,23, and 30 with an outdoor shoot on the morning of April 2. Classes meet at the Range facility off Jackson Road and start at 7pm, and are expected to last for approximately 2 hours. The course consists of lecture on several different topics including safety, legal, concealed cary, and gun handling, with demonstrations and live fire. Participants are requested NOT to bring personal firearms. The practice pistols [.22 cal] will be provided and there should be a diversity of arms to choose from in order to familiarize oneself with the different types. Students will be allowed to miss one class. In the final meeting on the morning of April 2 will be outdoor live fire demonstrations with several larger caliber weapons available for students to shoot at that time [you may also bring and shoot your own weapon at this time]. Please Note: Association members get a $10 reduction in the cost of the class. 21 December 2010, Helena, Montana We have received a list of bills to be considered by the Montana State Legislature during their 2011 session. The editor denies any reason for the following format, nor does he know how this stuff works. It is posted here as information for those who might find some kind of interest is what is happening within our democratic processes. I might expect that if you click on the appropriate link it should take you to more information about the particular bill. I guarantee nothing from this point on. - Ed. C Number Bill Type-Number Short Title Delete Entry Notify of Hearing /What's New?/ Notes LC0030 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0030&Z_ACTION=Find > Sheriff must authorize federal employee arrest, search, or seizure *Delete* *No* Add LC0048 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0048&Z_ACTION=Find > Restrict authority of FWP to regulate ammo or firearms for hunting *Delete* *No* Add LC0062 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0062&Z_ACTION=Find > Revise residency requirements for hunting *Delete* *No* Add LC0458 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0458&Z_ACTION=Find > Provide for monitoring of wolf diseases *Delete* *No* Add LC0459 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0459&Z_ACTION=Find > Provide for control of wolves *Delete* *No* Add LC0700 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0700&Z_ACTION=Find > Revise carrying concealed weapon in prohibited places *Delete* *No* Add LC0702 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0702&Z_ACTION=Find > Repeal prohibition on firearm sound reduction devices in field *Delete* *No* Add LC0703 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0703&Z_ACTION=Find > Limit police firearm seizure *Delete* *No* Add LC0704 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0704&Z_ACTION=Find > Revise offense of disorderly conduct *Delete* *No* Add LC0706 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0706&Z_ACTION=Find > Award attorney fees and costs for person found not guilty for self defense *Delete* *No* Add LC0707 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0707&Z_ACTION=Find > Allow employees to keep firearms in vehicle in workplace parking lot *Delete* *No* Add LC0708 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0708&Z_ACTION=Find > Encourage manufacture of ammunition in Montana to ensure availability *Delete* *No* Add LC0709 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0709&Z_ACTION=Find > Exception to concealed weapon offense if eligible to apply *Delete* *No* Add LC0710 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC0710&Z_ACTION=Find > Clarify and specify role of Home Guard *Delete* *No* Add LC1058 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC1058&Z_ACTION=Find > Revise fish and game enforcement laws *Delete* *No* Add LC1717 < http://laws.leg.mt.gov/laws11_pref/LAW0210w$BSIV.ActionQuery?P_BILL_DFT_NO5=LC1717&Z_ACTION=Find > Allow motorized access to public lands for game retrieval *Delete* *No* Add I would like to thank the members who showed up at the December meeting for lending a hand at folding and stuffing envelopes with the end of the year letter and new application, it saved me probably 3 house of hand work. Thanks guys - Mike 20 December 2010, White Sulphur Springs, Last Meeting of 2010 Pledge of Allegiance and Call to Order by George Kirkwood, President. Members present: George Kirkwood, Mike Vennard, Arnold Blair, Pat McCoy, John Dracon. Mike Vennard read Minutes of Last Meeting, Pat McCoy made a motion to accept as read, Arnold Blair seconded, motion passed Mike Vennard read the Treasurer's report. Vennard motion to accept, Arnold Blair seconded, motion passed. Committee Reports: There were no Committee reports. Old Business: Mike Vennard noted that he is still working on the logo. Pat McCoy reported that he had advertised the Rifle Instruction class and had only one response from a grandfather/grandson, which was not enough to hold the class. The grandson was included in the Junior Shooter instruction for the 2010 season. Pat also reported that he had completed and submitted the Grand Application for monies to supplement our purchase of 5 handguns, to the Friends of NRA. It was believed that the acceptance committee for FofNRA Montana was this week and, if our request is granted we should hear shortly. New Business. Mike Vennard presented three changes in the constitution, and read the changes for the first reading. It was noted that the second reading will be at the January meeting where a vote will be held for acceptance. The first change will be to allow the President to split the job of Secretary Treasurer if necessary. The second is to eliminate the necessity to have the range manager give permission to bring a guest for a one time orientation to the range. The third is to allow the President to appoint a person to fill out a vacancy on the Board of Directors or Officers until next voting period. A copy of the proposed changes is posted on the bulletin board at the Range. Mike Vennard presented a proposed budget for 2011 to use as a guideline to try and realign expenses with income. A copy of the budget is on the bulletin board at the Range for inspection. A second presentation is to be made at the January meeting. Pat McCoy pointed out that the FW&P had a budget to include grants for range improvements only. He suggest that we look into this and see if we can get money for additional gongs and metallic targets on the range. Pat McCoy asked if he should ask for club help in working on putting up a set of target carriers on the inside range. It was agreed that he does so. It was also agreed that Pat should start work on the next Personal Protection Class to be held in March. No specific dates as of yet. Members will get a $10 discount and first crack at getting signed up. Watch this web site and your email, if you have shared it with the club, as to when to apply. John Dracon made a motion to adjourn, Arnold Blair second, motion Passed. Adjourn.
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Seven junior shooters from the Meagher County Sportsmen's Association (MCSA) traveled to Big Timber to take part in the NRA Junior Sectional Smallbore Rifle championship on Saturday, March 5 th . This match is held is various locations throughout the country, with two locations in Montana. Scores are mailed to the NRA in Virginia to be aggregated with all other scores from around the country, and final standings will be posted in June. 
pressure on the boys by scoring 380 after only a few weeks of practice. Also competing on the team was James Evans, and his 300 score contributed to the team overall score of 1485 out of 1600. 
On the line. 
