BILL C-68 PASSES AND WE LOST...OR DID WE???

As most members know by now our last hope to defeat Bill C-68, the Senate, caved in and voted for it. Unfortunately, there now seems to be a feeling among some gun owners that we have lost the war. Nothing could be further from the truth. Despite our cautious optimism we knew from the beginning that the Liberal majority, with an anti-gun Prime Minister and Justice(?) Minister would not be very interested in hearing anything constructive that gun owners had to say. They have simply proven to us that we were correct. While we are disappointed we are not surprised or discouraged.

THE SILVER LINING

Despite this setback we have made great strides in the right direction. Thanks to the Liberals and their head-in-the-sand attitude the millions of gun owners in Canada have finally been drawn together into a cohesive group. Your membership in this organization is one example of what has been happening nationwide with gun owners and their supporters. For the first time in memory we have gathered significant media support and many pro-gun articles from writers like George Jonas, Lorrie Goldstein and Karen Selick have appeared in national publications. News commentators like Mike Duffy have given us positive television coverage. A national political force, the Reform Party of Canada, has promised to repeal C-68 if they form the next government. Provincial government parties that ran on platforms supporting gun owners have taken power in several provinces.

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

The most important thing for you at this time is not to panic. Don't sell your guns. Don't rush out to register them. If you do, they win. Rock wants this and under no circumstances should we cooperate with this man or his party. Don't be tempted to save a few bucks under some early registration scheme. Once your name is in the computer chances are they will never remove it. Remember, this man has already stated that only the military and police should have guns so you know his intentions once you are registered. You have nearly eight years before you have to register your guns. That translates into at least two more federal elections before registration is mandatory and you should not be in any hurry.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

1. CALL YOUR CONSERVATIVE MPP TODAY. Mike Harris and the provincial Conservatives do not support this legislation. While it is a federal law, it is up to the provinces to enforce it. Tell him that if Harris is really serious about cutting the deficit he won't waste millions of dollars and valuable police time enforcing this useless bill. Tell him to speak to Solicitor-General Bob Runciman and ask him to challenge the bill in court on the grounds that it violates the right to property provisions of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
2. CALL YOUR LIBERAL MP. Tell him he has just lost your vote in the next election because of his support of Bill C-68. Let him know that you are fed up with his government and will work to get him unelected
3. SUPPORT THE REFORM PARTY. They are on your side on this issue and are our only hope to get the bill repealed.
4. REJOIN THE SPORTING CLUBS OF NIAGARA. We are continuing the fight on all fronts for you and need your continued support. We have more than 800 members and over 2000 local households receive our newsletter. That says WE ARE A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH when we talk to politicians.

GUN SHOW

After the success of our first Gun show in September 1995 we are planning on another one in mid-March 1996. Watch for details on exact date, time and place in the next newsletter in early 1996.

SEA OF GREEN CAMPAIGN

The National Firearms Association, in conjunction with The Sporting Clubs of Niagara, is promoting the "Sea of Green" campaign. The NFA has produced large green plastic signs which read "Remember Bill C-68 When You Vote". The plan is to cover the region with these signs during the next federal election. Why not get a jump and order some now to show your support for the firearms community. They are only $1 each (cheaper if ordered in quantity) and are a great way to remind people that this Liberal Government has to go. Call any member of the Executive to order yours.

FAC EXEMPTIONS

The Ontario Conservative government has loosened some of the conditions on renewing FACs. If you are an active hunter, shooter or have owned firearms prior to 1979 there is a good chance that you can avoid some of the red tape and cost involved in an FAC renewal. Contact your local police station for information and application forms.
**NOTE--IMPORTANT**These exemption conditions are only valid till Dec. 31, 1995. You must at least file your application by that date to be considered for the exemption. DON'T DELAY - DO IT NOW!!!

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL

Memberships in The Sporting Clubs of Niagara for 1996 are now due. Please find enclosed a blank 1996 membership form. Fill it in, detach the membership card portion and keep it. Return the large registration portion with your payment to the address below.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

1. Join The Sporting Clubs of Niagara. For as little as $10 per year (the cost of 1 or 2 boxes of shells) you can aid the fight to protect your property and recreational activities.
2. Encourage your family and friends to join. The more voters we represent the more influential we are with politicians.
3. Volunteer your assistance. We need people to submit articles, deliver newsletters, organize local rallies, serve on the Executive, etc. To find out how you can assist in any way, please contact any member of the Executive.
4. Make an extra donation. Advertising, hall rental, postage, etc. all cost money. Any amount you can spare helps in the battle to achieve the goals of the organization.

YOUR EXECUTIVE

     Ron Penfound           Jim Finley              John Gayder
     Gerry Gamble           Ivan Chamberlain        Paul Blushak
     Barry Devereux         Max Cook                Tom Duggan
     Dennis Dunbar          James Houlden           John Kellaway
     Robert Lockhart        Rick McConnery          Dave Miller
     John Orth              Bill Staff              Bill Wagner
     Jack Warner            Shirley Warner