2010 - BFA in the News

Note: some websites change or deactivate stories after we link them here.

December 30, 2010
Toledo Blade - Ohio Supreme Court denies cities gun-law authority

The Ohio Supreme Court has upheld a 2006 law that allows the state, rather than cities, to determine firearm restrictions.

...Firearms groups hailed Wednesday's ruling.

"My right to self-defense, just like my right to attend church or write an op-ed in the local newspaper or be protected from illegal search and seizure, is the same in Delaware County as it is in Columbus or Cleveland," Ken Hanson, legislative chair of the Buckeye Firearms Association, told the Columbus Dispatch.

A key issue in discussing home rule is whether local ordinances conflict with general laws, he wrote, noting he doesn't believe Cleveland's ordinances conflict with the law "because they do not permit something that the statute forbids or vice versa."

December 30, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - Ohio Supreme Court shoots down local gun control

Local firearms regulations suffered a crippling, possibly fatal blow yesterday when the Ohio Supreme Court ruled for the second time that a more-permissive state law trumps local restrictions.

...Firearms groups cheered the statewide law, saying gun owners shouldn't be penalized by a patchwork of laws from city to city. The same groups hailed yesterday's Supreme Court ruling.

"My right to self-defense, just like my right to attend church or write an op-ed in the local newspaper or be protected from illegal search and seizure, is the same in Delaware County as it is in Columbus or Cleveland," said Ken Hanson, legislative chair of the Buckeye Firearms Association.

December 28, 2010
Armed American Radio

December 28, 2010
The News-Herald - Concealed carry permit issuance on the rise in Ohio

More Ohioans are drawing a bead on obtaining their concealed carry permit.

The latest posting from the Buckeye Firearms Association includes material supplied by out-going Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray. It points to more and more Ohioans taking the mandatory class and then applying for a permit after successfully completing the program.

This state-supplied data indicates that for the third quarter of 2010 (the latest figures available), a record 208,350 Ohioans have the required permit to legally carry a concealed handgun. Typically, too, the Association says, the third quarter is the slowest of the four reporting periods.

During the third quarter fully 2,763 concealed permits were renewed along with 18 temporary permits granted. Those figures helped fuel a third-quarter-total figure of 12,287 permits issued; or almost 200 such permits approved each working day and as awarded by Ohio's 88 county sheriff departments.

Looking at the figures another way, reports the Association, five concealed carry permits are issued in Ohio every hour, 7 days a week.

Another factoid supplied by Cordray indicates that renewal rate for concealed carry permits is 79 percent with only about 750 such documents expiring during the third quarter.

December 19, 2010
WBZI 1500 AM's "The Great Outdoors" radio program

December 10, 2010
Middletown Journal - Alcohol and guns 'a dangerous mix'

Proponents of Senate Bill 239 said the proposal allows for conceal carry permit holders to carry their weapons into bars and restaurants if they make a conscious decision not to drink alcohol. Supporters like Sean Maloney, a CCW trainer and member of the National Rifle Association and Buckeye Firearms Association, admit the bill requires a bit of trust. But Maloney stood by his belief in a citizen's right to defend himself and his family and assure they return home safely.

"But we should not be playing police officer," said Maloney, who hammers that point home during his training classes. "We don't need junior deputies."

Jim Irvine, chairman of the Buckeye Firearms Association, said the bill would bring Ohio in line with other states like Indiana, Michigan and Kentucky, which already have laws that permit concealed guns in establishments that serve alcohol. Irvine said guns have been stolen from locked vehicles because the owner wasn't permitted to carry their weapon into a restaurant or bar. In other instances, people have been killed in mass shootings where someone with a gun could have saved lives, he said.

"I guarantee it is already being done," Irvine said of taking guns into bars and restaurants. "Especially from people who are visiting from out of state, because they don't realize what Ohio law says."

December 10, 2010
Hamilton Journal-News - House vote on gun bills unlikely until 2011

Sean Maloney, a CCW trainer and member of both the NRA and Buckeye Firearms Association, said the bill requires a bit of trust that the person will not consume, but added it's no different than trusting law abiding citizens to carry a gun into a bank and not rob it.

December 8, 2010
WCMH (NBC Columbus) - Ohio House Members Vote Two Gun Bills Out Of Committee

"These laws will not get drug dealers guns back, these people were not granted gun rights before the law and they won't be after either,"said Ken Hanson, Legislative Chair for the Buckeye Firearms Association.

"Senate Bill 247 is about restoring the right to own a gun for anyone who committed a minor misdemeanor in their past." And, it will allow someone convicted of a drug felony the right to own a gun only if the court system approves it," said Hanson.

"When you provide a gun to those who have been convicted of a drug offense, that person is likely to be arrested again for another drug offense," said Mayor Coleman. He quoted statistics showing, gun buyers who have at least one misdemeanor conviction are seven and a half times as likely to commit new offenses.

Buckeye Firearms has received calls from police officers who support the misdemeanor bill, because they too have had similar convictions.

"The police and prosecutor groups never meant it to a disability for minor misdemeanors. if someone went through the process, then the court order to have their gun rights restored should be honored," said Hanson.

Up until 2007, Hanson said, "Ohio Courts had the ability to restore an offender's firearm rights, but then, the Federal Government stopped accepting Ohio Court Orders." Senate Bill 247 will restore those rights," said Hanson.

December 8, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - Petition could force concealed-carry votes

The Buckeye Firearms Association is pushing for votes on the bills. Ken Hanson, the group's legislative chairman, said he was told by Democrats during the campaign that in exchange for some lenient grades for those who blocked a House vote on the bills in the spring, they would get a floor vote.

"The time for delay is done," Hanson said. "We didn't want them to go into recess and not do any legislative business for five months."

Hanson said his group has received a number of calls from police officers who support the misdemeanor drug bill because they themselves have had such convictions.

December 7, 2010
Cleveland Plain Dealer - Republican pushes gun-rights bills to Ohio House floor; Budish may thwart effort

If the law passes, restaurants and bars could still decide to prohibit guns inside their businesses, said attorney Ken Hanson, who is legislative chair for the Buckeye Firearms Association. Hanson said privately owned stadiums could make the same decision. Guns would still be prohibited at publicly owned stadiums if the law passed, Hanson said.

December 5, 2010
The Springfield News-Sun - Vote sought on two gun bills

Proponents include the Buckeye Firearms Association, which argues the change would put Ohio's laws in line with neighboring states, and make them less confusing.

December 3, 2010
WCMH (NBC Columbus) - Could Ohio Soon Allow Guns In Bars?

Next Tuesday, the Ohio House floor could see a battle when Rep. Danny Bubp looks for house members to sign a petition to override the speaker for a vote on concealed carry in bars and restaurants that serve alcohol.

"We're asking for self defense. I should not be disarmed when I am going out to lunch with my family and am not consuming alcohol. It's a self defense issue," said Linda Walker, of the Buckeye Firearms Association.

"It's just a nightmare. Imagine if there was a shooting in this bar here and five or six people jump up with guns. Who is the good guy and who is the bad guy? Who is the police? Who is not?" said Mark Drum, of the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police.

The sides are sharply drawn when it comes to carrying a gun into a bar or restaurant that serves alcohol.

"People should not fear the gun. They should fear the criminal," Walker said.

...We need Speaker Budish to schedule that third day of session. Do the right thing for gun owners in Ohio and schedule that third day of session," Walker said.

December 1, 2010
The News-Herald - Ohio gun owners group urges passage of two proposals

With the state legislative clock ticking down the hours until the close of this lame duck session, the Buckeye Firearms Association is pressing for the passage of two proposals.

These include a proposed measure to fix state law as it relates to a legally licensed individual carrying a concealed weapon in a restaurant or car. The other is a "restoration of rights" bill that would bring Ohio into line with federal standards for restoring rights - including gun ownership - to those who lost them, mostly due to past criminal activity and any subsequent penalty completion.

Both bills originated in the State Senate where they passed handily. Each is now before the Ohio House, the firearms association says and which urges its members to take up pen, cell phone, Facebook and Twitter to press their elected House members for passage.

November 14, 2010
Columbus Dispatch - 'Castle doctrine' coming under fire

Steve Loos, central Ohio coordinator for the Buckeye Firearms Association, said defense lawyers will grasp at what straws they can to exonerate clients.

"That's not the intent of the law. They are misusing it. It gives the presumption you are in the right if you use force against an intruder," he said. "I don't see that hampering the ability of prosecutors to pursue cases."

NOTE: Loos was misquoted in this article. "I did not say they are misusing the law. Rather, I said that if any misuse was taking place it could easily be refuted by investigators and prosecutors. Ludlow also left out the part where I said other states have much stronger castle doctrine laws. Also I told him I was a central Ohio Leader and a volunteer Coordinator."

November 8, 2010
NRANews.com

November 4, 2010
NRANews.com

November 3, 2010
Toledo Free Press - Iott concession remarks

"I was also honored to be endorsed by such terrific organizations as the National and Ohio Right to Life PACs, the Susan B. Anthony List, Gun Owners of America, Buckeye Firearms Association and the National Federation of Independent Business. These organizations were willing to get behind a first-time candidate based upon my beliefs and my word – and I want to thank them as well."

November 2, 2010
NRANews.com

November 2, 2010
Cleveland Plain Dealer - Cuyahoga County sheriff moves concealed-carry office to Parma

"It's like a seatbelt or a smoke detector," said Jim Irvine of the Buckeye Firearms Association. "It may not save your life every time, but it is a great layer of protection."

And by placing offices in the suburbs, some believe the chance for people to obtain permits is easier.

Irvine has mixed feelings on the idea. He said if the office in Parma proves to easily accessible and the parking is available, then the plan will work well. But he fears that making it easier for some will hurt others, especially those who live in the city and can't reach the suburb.

"Some people just don't like to drive downtown, whether it's the parking or the freeway maze," he said. "I wish we could add a better alternative for some and not delete an option for others. I don't know what a perfect solution is. It's probably not financially feasible to have four of those offices."

October 29, 2010
Mansfield News Journal - Our Opinion: Kris Jordan best qualified for Ohio Senate

While Jordan already has earned endorsements from two leading conservative organizations, Ohio Right to Life and the Buckeye Firearms Association, he quickly notes his willingness to cross party lines.

October 27, 2010
Ohio News Network - Gubernatorial Candidates Battle Over Guns

The NRA's current ratings of the candidates showed Kasich with a "B". Strickland, who has the endorsement of the Buckeye Firearms Association and the NRA, has an "A."

"The whole issue that John Kasich has attempted to avoid for the last year and a half has come to the forefront," said Linda Walker, a member of the Buckeye Firearms Association.

Walker said that it's no contest between Strickland and Kasich on the gun issue. That's why her organization, and the NRA, has endorsed the governor.

"Ted (Strickland) has never had a bad second amendment rights vote in his entire political career," Walker said.

..."Gun owners have a very long memory, that's one thing to say about them," Walker said. "And if someone has wronged us on our second amendment rights we're going to remember that."

October 26, 2010
Canton Repository - Boards and Ballots: Ted Nugent, NRA like Boccieri

It's the second time the NRA has endorsed Boccieri, who carries an "A" rating with the organization. John Hohenwater, the NRA’s Ohio liaison, said Boccieri supported NRA issues in the Ohio Legislature before being elected to Congress.

The endorsement event took place at the Louisville Sportsmen's Club. Hohenwater and Malloy attended with Roger Strickland, brother of Gov. Ted Strickland. The NRA also endorsed Strickland, and U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, D-Niles. Buckeye Firearms also has endorsed Boccieri.

October 13, 2010
WTAM 1100 AM (Cleveland)

October 13, 2010
NRANews.com

October 13, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - Cleveland defends its gun laws before Ohio Supreme Court

Gun-rights advocates said yesterday that they expect the Supreme Court to rule the other way.

"Cleveland, instead of spending time and money and resources on the very real crime problem they have, is wasting their resources going after law-abiding citizens," said Jim Irvine, head of the Buckeye Firearms Association.

October 13, 2010
NRANews.com

October 12, 2010
The News-Herald - Strickland aims for gunowners' votes; so do other Democrats

Ohio's Gov. Ted Strickland is leaving no stone unturned in his search for votes as he seeks reelection.

Most recently Strickland has posted a television commercial where he points out his pro-Second Amendment stance, his A-plus rating and his endorsements from the National Rifle Association as well as the Buckeye Firearms Association.

October 7, 2010
Cleveland Plain Dealer - Working-class storm is brewing for the Democrats

Target practice: Here's an issue Democrats hope will help rally blue-collar voters: guns. In Ohio, embattled Gov. Ted Strickland's running an ad touting his support from the National Rifle Association and the Buckeye Firearms Association and excoriating John Kasich for supporting the assault weapons ban and gun-show background checks.

October 7, 2010
The Other Paper - Big Brother is watching - Team Strickland's secret back-roads weapon

Roger spends a lot of time bragging about Ted's "A" rating from the National Rifle Association and his endorsement from groups like the Buckeye Firearms Association—typical bastions of conservatism. But perhaps more important, Roger reminds gun owners and sportsmen tucked in the small nooks and crannies of the state that Ted's opponent, former Congressman John Kasich, bucked his party's typical platform, too, and actually received an "F" from the NRA.

October 6, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - Campaign ad watch: Strickland for Governor's 'Hunters'

Script: Narrator: "Tradition. It's what brings families together. And the outcome of this election could affect a tradition people have enjoyed for generations. In Washington, John Kasich voted to take away our gun rights. In fact, John Kasich's record was so bad, the NRA gave him an F. But Governor Ted Strickland has been an ardent supporter of the Second Amendment. That's why he is endorsed by the Buckeye Firearms Association and the NRA who gave Ted Strickland an A-plus rating. For hunters the choice is clear Ted Strickland for governor."

October 1, 2010
The News-Herald - Keeping the traveling gun owner out of trouble

The Buckeye Firearms Association wants to help ensure that concealed carry permit holders and sportsmen traveling out-of-state are kept from getting into trouble with the law.

The Buckeye Firearms Association is offering the "Travelers Guide to the Firearms Laws of the Fifty States," written by J. Scott Kappas,a Kentucky lawyer and firearms law expert.

At $13.95 (plus $4 for handling and shipping) the book's value would be immeasurable should a gun-owner encounter a legal challenge while transporting a handgun, shotgun, or rifle.

The book features such useful information as a state-by-state summary of gun laws, data on permit requirements, rules regarding self defense, concealed carry, open carry and vehicle carry as well as the legal definition of firearms law terms, and other matters, the Buckeye Firearms Association says.

If the book is brought through the Buckeye Firearms Association part of the proceeds will go toward the group's pro-gun educational sibling, the Buckeye Firearms Foundation.

To buy the book, send a check for $17.95 and payable to the Buckeye Firearms Foundation, Traveler's Firearms Guide, 15 West Winter Street, Delaware, Ohio 43015.

September 28, 2010
WCMH (NBC Columbus) - Mayor Ready To Take On Gun Laws

"The mayor needs to go after criminals. What gun laws do is affect the law-abiding citizen. They don't impact the criminals," said Linda Walker with the Buckeye Firearms Association.

Coleman said he is targeting a so-called gun show loophole that he said would reduce criminals' access to guns. The Buckeye Firearms Association said it misses the mark.

"A criminal doesn't go to a gun show or retail shop to get the gun. They are going to steal it," Walker said.

September 28, 2010
NRANews.com

September 28, 2010
The Chillicothe Gazette - Report links weak laws to guns used in crimes

Leadership at the Buckeye Firearms Association disputed the report's connection between crime guns and state gun laws, pointing to California and New York.

Jim Irvine, chairman, and Ken Hanson, legislative chairman, of the gun-rights organization, noted ATF data shows that in those two states, which have the strictest gun-control laws in the nation, an overwhelming majority of seized and traced guns were bought within their borders. In other words, guns being funneled in from states with looser restrictions weren't to blame.

"If we can stop criminals from buying guns anywhere, anyhow, yeah, we should be doing it," Irvine said. "But it's a nonsense argument that our laws are to blame for that."

Hanson said limitations in some states are so Draconian that guns categorized as "crime guns" may have been owned by otherwise law-abiding residents. Sticking to federal guidelines on gun ownership would be the best way to reduce crime, he added.

"If these mayors want to lower their gun-crime rates, they should immediately, tomorrow, make it legal for anyone who may own a gun under federal law to carry a gun," Hanson said.

September 27, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - Coleman wants cities to be able to enact gun-control laws

Jim Irvine, chairman of the Buckeye Firearms Association, called local gun laws "useless at best" because they were rarely enforced against people committing serious crimes.

"Where is his leadership to go after the real problems?" he said of Coleman. "What they're failing to focus on is the criminal."

Irvine dismissed the mayors' report. Ohio was listed as the sixth-biggest source of guns used in out-of-state crimes last year, but it was joined by California, Texas, Florida, Pennsylvania and other populous states.

September 23, 2010
NRANews.com

September 16, 2010
NRANews.com

September 7, 2010
NRANews.com

September 6, 2010
The Marietta Times - Gun bill would expand owners' rights

House Bill 571, which was introduced by Joe Uecker, 66th District Representative, and is co-sponsored by 30 other representatives, would amend section 2923.126 of the Ohio Revised Code. The law would not allow private employers to prohibit a concealed-carry permit holder from storing the employee's handgun in a locked motor vehicle on the employer's premises. Any current employer policy prohibiting such would have to be amended.

...Uecker's office was approached by Ohioans for Concealed Carry and Buckeye Firearms Association to back this legislation, not only because of the fear of repercussions from their employers, but also because citizens were concerned about how to protect themselves in transit from home to work.

August 31, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - Utah gun-permit process draws Ohioans

Jim Irvine, chairman of the Buckeye Firearms Association, said some Ohioans turned to other states - chiefly Utah - because the names of Ohio permit holders had been public record.

"Some people are still afraid of having their names printed in the papers, even though that hasn't been a problem in the last couple of years," Irvine said.

He dismissed the idea that Ohioans have obtained permits from Utah to get around the Buckeye State's requirement that they undergo 12 hours of firearms training.

"Our training bar is pretty high, although I'd say that's a pretty minor reason," Irvine said. "If you're going to carry, the idea of having the least possible training doesn't apply to many people."

August 27, 2010
WCMH (NBC Columbus) - Bill Aims To Allow Concealed Carry In Workplace Parking Lots

"House Bill 571 is a fair, viable effort to protect employees in the state of Ohio. When enacted, it will prevent employees from unjust discrimination or termination simply for exercising their second amendment rights," Uecker said.

...The Central Ohio Chair of the Buckeye Firearms Association supports the bill.

"This is going to protect people with their self-defense," said Linda Walker. "Right now, they've effectively been disarmed by their employer, so now this will give them the option of being able to at least protect themselves," she said.

August 27, 2010
The News-Herald - Strickland seeks to drive away with gun owner votes

Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland is pulling out all of the stops to solicit the votes of the state's hunters, anglers, trappers and gun owners.

The Buckeye Firearms Association reports that Strickland has redecorated a large motor home that is embellished in a camouflage screen that includes a photographic image of himself and his brother, Roger.

The "Sportsmen for Strickland" motor home also features the Buckeye Firearms Association's endorsement position of Strickland as well as that of the National Rifle Association, which has awarded the governor an "A" rating.

On the motor home's tail end is found: "Vote Freedom first: Vote Strickland."

August 17, 2010
NRANews.com

August 15, 2010
Armed American Radio

August 8, 2010
The Chillicothe Gazette - Space, Gibbs to face off in two debates

In the congressional race this week, [U.S. Rep. Zack] Space picked up the endorsement of the Buckeye Firearms Association. Organization chair Jim Irvine said Space has a long history of support of the rights of gun owners.

August 6, 2010
The Newark Advocate - Buckeye Firearms Association endorses Zack Space

Zack Space, D-Dover, announced he has received the endorsement of the Buckeye Firearms Association in his re-election campaign to represent Ohio's 18th Congressional District.

Space, opposed by State Sen. Bob Gibbs, R-Lakeville, also earned an A rating and endorsement from the National Rifle Association in 2008, according to a press release from the Space campaign.

August 6, 2010
NRANews.com

July 27, 2010
HumanEvents.com - A Perfect Fighting 1911 - That You Can Afford

July 25, 2010
News Talk 610 WTVN (Columbus)

July 22, 2010
The News-Herald - Ohio gun owners swinging to Democrats?

In a reversal of fortunes for top-level Ohio Democrats, Second Amendment supporters are abandoning Republicans.

Earlier this month the National Rifle Association announced its support for the reelection of Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland - long a darling of gun owners.

Now comes word today (Thursday, July 22) that the Buckeye Firearms Association is endorsing current Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray for re-election as well.

On July 11 the Buckeye Firearms Association similarly endorsed Strickland's reelection.

"Cordray has exhibited strong support for the Second Amendment and for the rights of Ohio gun owners during his first term as Attorney General," the Buckeye Firearms Association said in its release.

The Association notes Cordray's friend-of-the-court brief before the U.S. Supreme Court that recently struck down Chicago's handgun ban.

Also, Cordray is defending Ohio's preemption law against Cleveland as it relates gun laws.

July 21, 2010
The Dayton Daily News - Buckeye Firearms Association endorses Cordray for AG

The Buckeye Firearms Association has endorsed Democratic Attorney General Richard Cordray for re-election over Republican challenger Mike DeWine, the former U.S. senator from Cedarville.

“The Buckeye Firearms Association represents the interests of an important group of people in Ohio, and I am honored to have received their endorsement,” Cordray said in a press release on Wednesday, July 21.

Click here for the full text of the endorsement.

July 19, 2010
NRANews.com

July 13, 2010
USAToday - Strickland Endorsed By Buckeye Firearms Association

In the past, gun advocates have supported Republicans, but that is not the case in Ohio this year. "Gov. Strickland, even going back through his time as a Congressman, has a 100 percent voting record on gun rights," said Buckeye Firearms Association spokesman Ken Hanson.

July 13, 2010
Ohio News Network - Strickland Endorsed By Buckeye Firearms Association

In the past, gun advocates have supported Republicans, but that is not the case in Ohio this year.

"Gov. Strickland, even going back through his time as a Congressman, has a 100 percent voting record on gun rights," said Buckeye Firearms Association spokesman Ken Hanson. "During his time as governor he's been there every time we've asked for help."

Hanson has been taking heat after his organization announced that they were backing Strickland, the Democratic candidate, ONN's Jim Heath reported Tuesday.

Hanson said it was all about Republican John Kasich's record.

"John Kasich, if you go back to his voting record in Congress, there are a number of votes, 9 to 10 depending on how you count, that were contrary to the stated pro-gun position," Hanson said.

The biggest was Kasich's vote in favor of the assault weapon ban in the 1990s, Hanson said.

...The [restaurant carry] bill did pass the Senate, and Strickland has said he'd sign it.

Hanson said it's another reason why the single-issue group found it easy to endorse him.

...The Buckeye Firearms Association endorsed Republican Jon Husted for Secretary of State on Monday.

They are expected to endorse Democratic Attorney General Richard Cordray later this week.

July 12, 2010
The Chillicothe Gazette - 2nd pro-gun group endorses Gov. Strickland's re-election

Gun owners and Second Amendment rights activists might tend to vote Republican, but in this year's Ohio governor's race, that might not necessarily be the case.

fter winning the National Rifle Association endorsement in June, the incumbent Democratic governor, Ted Strickland, picked up another one Saturday -- the Buckeye Firearms Association, an influential group that lobbies for pro-gun legislation in the Ohio Statehouse.

The antipathy of pro-gun organizations such as the NRA and the Buckeye Firearms Association toward John Kasich, the Republican candidate for governor, dates back 16 years to the vote then-congressman Kasich cast for President Bill Clinton's crime bill, which included a ban on assault rifles.

Strickland was a congressman in 1994, too, representing a southeast Ohio district where gun ownership is common and hunting a major sport. Strickland bucked his party leadership and voted against the bill.

The Buckeye Firearms Association, which handed Strickland his endorsement at a Saturday event at the Pickaway County Sportsman's Club in Circleville, argues Strickland has a good record as governor as well. For example, he signed into law a bill allowing veterans ages 18 to 21 the ability to buy handguns.

July 12, 2010
The Washington Post - Strickland Receives Buckeye Firearms Association Endorsement

Yesterday, Governor Strickland officially received the endorsement of the Buckeye Firearms Association. This effectively means Strickland has swept the pro-gun endorsements in the race, receiving the NRA’s a few weeks ago.

July 12, 2010
The Gongwer News Service - Gun Group backs Strickland

Already packing the endorsement of the National Rifle Association, Gov. Ted Strickland over the weekend picked up the support of the Buckeye Firearms Association during an event at the Pickaway County Sportsman's Club in Circleville.

BFA President Jim Irvine said in a statement of the incumbent's nod over Republican John Kasich, "Whether you are a hunter, sporting shooter, self-defense advocate or a gun owner, you have no stauncher ally than Governor Ted Strickland. His consistent, tested and proven support for individual gun rights is second to none."

Gov. Strickland said he was honored by the group's support. "Like many Ohioans, hunting and fishing has always been a way of life for me and my family. From my childhood in Scioto County hunting with my brothers and sisters, and through my life in public service, I have always supported sportsmen in my actions, my lifestyle, and my policies."

July 12, 2010
NRANews.com

July 12, 2010
The Cincinnati Post - Strickland picks up support from another pro-gun group

Gun owners and Second Amendment rights activists tend to be a reliable voting block for Republicans, but in the Ohio governor’s race, that may not necessarily be the case.

The incumbent Democratic governor, Ted Strickland, picked up an endorsement from the National Rifle Association last month. Saturday, he picked up another one – the Buckeye Firearms Association, an influential group that lobbies for pro-gun legislation in the Ohio Statehouse.

The antipathy of pro-gun organizations like the NRA and the Buckeye Firearms Association toward John Kasich, the Republican candidate for governor, seems to date back 16 years to the vote then-congressman Kasich cast for President Bill Clinton's crime bill, which included a ban on assault rifles.

Strickland was a congressman in 1994, too, representing a southeast Ohio district where gun ownership is common and hunting a major sport. Strickland bucked his party leadership and voted against the crime bill.

The Buckeye Firearms Association, which handed Strickland his endorsement at a Saturday event at the Pickaway County Sportsman's Club in Circleville, argues that Strickland has a good record as governor as well – signing into law a bill allowing veterans ages 18 to 21 the ability purchase handguns and gave him credit for conservation and Ohio's fishing and hunting traditions.

...Strickland, too, pledged allegiance to gun rights at the event Saturday in Circleville.

"Like many Ohioans, hunting and fishing has always been a way of life for me and my family," Strickland said. "From my childhood in Scioto County hunting with my brothers and sisters and through my life in public service, I have always supported sportsmen in my actions, my lifestyle and my policies."

July 9, 2010
NRANews.com

July 4, 2010
WBZI 1500 AM's "The Great Outdoors" radio program

June 30, 2010
Newark Advocate - Violent crime has decreased in Ohio despite concealed carry law

June 29, 2010
HumanEvents.com - Gangs Behind up to 80% of US Crime

June 29, 2010
The Dayton Daily News - Cities can't ban handguns, court says

WASHINGTON — A divided U.S. Supreme Court handed a victory to gun advocates on Monday, June 28, striking down city bans on the private ownership of handguns.

At the same time, the justices made clear that states and local governments could still regulate the possession and use of other types of weapons.

The 5-4 decision by a deeply fractured court would appear to have little impact on Ohio because neither the state nor local governments prohibit ownership of handguns. A 2006 state law passed despite the veto of Gov. Bob Taft swept away local laws in Dayton that had banned possession of assault weapons.

"Within the state of Ohio, it will be the same tomorrow afternoon as it was yesterday afternoon," said Ken Hanson, legislative chair of the Buckeye Firearms Association.

June 28, 2010
News Talk 610 WTVN (Columbus)

June 17, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - The NRA rules: When the gun lobby says jump, Republicans and Democrats ask how high

In Ohio, there thrives a robust bipartisan consensus that does the state little good and much mischief: the eagerness of Statehouse Republicans and Democrats to do the bidding of the gun lobby.

As the National Rifle Association, working with Ohio-based gun groups such as the Buckeye Firearms Association, closes in on victory for excessive gun "rights," the unhealthy influence of the gun crowd over legislators is clearer than ever.

June 13, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - Under the gun - Ohio lawmakers feel pressure from the NRA to support weapons-friendly legislation

Despite opposition from the Fraternal Order of Police of Ohio, county sheriffs, police chiefs and state associations representing county prosecutors - all of whom call it a bad and dangerous idea - Senate Bill 239 breezed through the Senate recently with a bipartisan 23-10 vote.

It took a procedural maneuver to block the gun issue from coming up for a vote in the full House.

"From our surveys, I expect that if it does come before the House, it's going to pass," said Ken Hanson, legislative chairman for the Buckeye Firearms Association.

...The NRA's clout does not stem from direct campaign contributions, though some say its endorsement can broaden a candidate's pool of donors. The NRA's political-action committee is a modest player, giving lawmakers $37,000 since the start of 2007, mostly in sums of $500 or less. Two other Ohio-based gun-advocacy groups combined to give about $12,000.

But the NRA offers backing other than financial. Hanson said that in February, his group put out a call for volunteers to do campaign work at gun shows, and within three days 104 had signed up. Now, advocates have a fully staffed presence at every show, he said.

"For our endorsed candidates, that's unpaid staff that they don't have to coordinate that is standing at a gun show handing out their literature to 5,000 people," Hanson said. "There is no lower-cost channel to communicate."

...The two sides paint very different pictures of the bill's impact.

..."What (opponents) are testifying to is fear of the unknown," Hanson said. "If you look at all of these other states that have done this ... never do any of these states try to restrict it or revoke it. It's just not a problem anyplace."

Although 42 states allow some kind of gun access to places that serve alcohol, police said the proposal here would make Ohio one of about a half-dozen states that allow people to carry in any type of bar.

June 6, 2010
WBZI 1500 AM's "The Great Outdoors" radio program

June 3, 2010
WMAN 1400AM Mansfield

June 3, 2010
WKRC 550AM Cincinnati

May 30, 2010
Armed American Radio

May 30, 2010
WBZI 1500 AM's "The Great Outdoors" radio program

May 28, 2010
NRANews.com

May 27, 2010
Ohio News Network - Senate Passes Bill Allowing Concealed Carry Of Guns In Restaurants

"If you look at all the surrounding states of Ohio none of them restrict carry in a car and none of them restrict carry in a restaurant. So it's a change that is well past due," said Ken Hanson, spokesman for the Buckeye Firearms Association.

Hanson has been lobbying for the bill for more than a year. It has the strong support of the National Rifle Association and Ohioans for Concealed Carry.

Supporters also include Democratic Gov. Ted Strickland.

"We don't have Democrats, we don't have Republicans. We have pro-gun legislators and a pro-gun governor. I'm confident we can deliver this to the governor in an appropriate bill and get his signature," Hanson said.

May 27, 2010
WCMH (NBC Columbus) - Concealed Carry & Alcohol

May 27, 2010
WBNS (CBS Columbus) - Senate Passes Bill Allowing Concealed Carry Of Guns In Restaurants

The Buckeye Firearm Association said the change is long overdue.

They said that those carrying guns would not be allowed to drink under the proposed law, and that restaurants would have the option to opt out of allowing patrons with guns.

"They can get a piece of tape and stick a sign on the door that says 'No guns' and they don't have to worry about it, just that simple," said spokesman Ken Hanson.

May 21, 2010
NRANews.com

May 18, 2010
WOSU 820AM (NPR News Columbus)

May 16, 2010
NRANews.com

May 16, 2010
WBZI 1500 AM's "The Great Outdoors" radio program

May 9, 2010
Gun Talk Radio Show

Download the podcast - Gresham's comments about the BFA article begin about 25 minutes into the segment.

May 9, 2010
Armed American Radio

May 2, 2010
WDTN (NBC Dayton)

May 2, 2010
WBZI 1500 AM's "The Great Outdoors" radio program

April 28, 2010
NRANews.com

April 22, 2010
The Daily Court Reporter - Firearms bill would bring Ohio into compliance with federal regulations

Kenneth Hanson, an attorney at Firestone, Brehm, Hanson, Wolf and Burchinal LLP, and legislative chair of the Buckeye Firearms Association, said since the 2008 BATFE review and decision, which was retroactive, several Ohioans trying to purchase guns have been denied.

"Someone who had been buying guns for 10 years because they had a restoration (of firearms rights prior to 2008) suddenly discovers they are back under firearm disability because Ohio's restoration of firearm rights was not a complete restoration," Hanson explained.

Hanson added that he had a client who was convicted of a misdemeanor during a graduation party, applied for restoration and was approved, joined the Navy where he served as a sniper, but now cannot own a gun.

"The only way to fix this is to strike this restriction from Ohio law, and allow the person to try to apply for these highly regulated items in addition to allowing the ownership of ordinary firearms," Hanson said, assuring that SB 247 would make no changes to the law regarding the restoration application process, which is usually granted but is denied in cases where the probation department background check shows a significant criminal history, or the prosecution objects.

Certain felony convictions, such as murder, rape and kidnapping, in which judges usually deny the motion for application, are exceptions to the restoration process, he added.

Hanson said he believes very few - likely less than 1,000 - Ohioans ever want or attempt to apply for dangerous ordnance, and if they do, they are subject to extreme evaluation.

"In order for an ordinary citizen to own an NFA item, they must get their local law enforcement chief to sign off on their application to own an NFA item, and then the BATFE conducts a background check in the application process," he explained.

"If the applicant is successful, which takes about six months, they then purchase a $200 federal tax stamp and affix it to a federal form, and can own that single NFA item. If they want to buy a second item, they have to go through the entire process all over again, including a new $200 stamp."

Hanson added that no other states have a provision prohibiting the restoration of rights for dangerous ordnance.

"This really is a technical thing. It shouldn't be an emotional issue," he said.

April 15, 2010
NRANews.com

April 15, 2010
The Columbus Dispatch - Tea Party to rally at Statehouse this afternoon

A host of speakers are scheduled, including Maurice Thompson, executive director of the 1851 Center for Constitutional Law; Clint Lake of the Buckeye Firearms Association; and a few candidates.

April 8, 2010
NRANews.com

March 31, 2010
NRANews.com

March 31, 2010
The BG News - Senate introduces concealed carry bill 239

Laws regarding where firearms can be carried could become more lenient.

According to the Buckeye Firearm Association's Web site, a new bill was introduced this week, Senate bill 239, which would allow citizens who hold a concealed handgun license to carry a firearm in restaurants. The bill would also lessen restrictions regarding how a license holder must transport a firearm in a vehicle.

...Buckeye Firearm Association Chairman Jim Irvine said he supports Senate bill 239, and believes it will benefit all those who have concealed carry licenses.

"Ohio currently has more strenuous laws than those involving concealed handguns in, say, Michigan," he said. "Especially for out of state and elderly people, they don't understand the way that we are supposed to carry handguns in Ohio."

Irvine said it would be the licensed owner's obligation to not consume alcohol while carrying a concealed handgun in a restaurant.

"If there were a problem with people bringing handguns into restaurants while consuming alcohol, then the story would be different, but it hasn't been a problem," he said. "This is why I think we continue working toward this bill and do what the other 42 out of 48 open-carry states are doing."

March 28, 2010
Cleveland Plain Dealer - Ohio state senators propose bill to allow concealed guns in restaurants, bars, stadiums

The bill was introduced by senators Tim Schaffer of Lancaster and Shannon Jones of Springboro. The bill had its first committee hearing on Wednesday.

The two senators said their bill is supported by the Buckeye Firearms Association and Ohioans for Concealed Carry.

March 26, 2010
NRANews.com

March 24, 2010
Gongwer News Service - Widow of Slain Tennessee Man Urges Ohio to Allow Conceal Carry in Venues That Serve Alcohol

Sen. Jones said in sponsor testimony that the National Rifle Association and the Buckeye Firearms Association supported the measure.

March 23, 2010
NRANews.com

March 21, 2010
The Ohio News Network (Columbus)

March 21, 2010
Toledo Blade - New permits in Ohio reached record last year

Five years after it became legal for Ohioans to carry concealed firearms, more people lined up for permits than in any year since the law took effect.

...Last weekend, workers at two South Toledo stores shot two suspected robbers, one fatally, after, police say, they brandished guns inside the businesses. Last month, a Toledo man who came home to find three suspected burglars inside his house fatally shot one of the intruders and injured another.

"I don't ever feel good that someone has to die. I don't ever feel good that someone got shot," said Jim Irvine, chairman of the Buckeye Firearms Association, a gun-rights advocacy group. "I've talked to many people who have gone through this. None of them are happy or cavalier about it. It's not something anyone ever wants to go through."

...As for concealed-carry permits, Mr. Irvine said he believes people are coming to view them as safety tools that can save lives much like seat belts or smoke alarms, and they hope they'll never be in a situation where they need them.

March 19, 2010
WCMH (NBC Columbus) - Debate: Should Concealed Carry Extend To Alcohol-Serving Businesses?

Buckeye Firearms Association, an Ohio 2nd Amendment Rights group, had a booth at the state fairgrounds for the Deer and Turkey Expo this weekend.

"We are not asking for people to consume alcohol. We are asking for law abiding citizens to defend themselves if a situation occurs," said Linda Walker, Buckeye Firearms Association Central Ohio Chair.

March 18, 2010
WTOL (CBS Toledo) - Law introduced in Ohio to allow guns in restaurants

"People have the right to self defense and our constitution says so," said Chad Baus of the Buckeye Firearms Assoc. "Our constitution doesn't draw a line and say: 'But not here.'"

That's why Senate Bill 239 is before the State Senate.

It would allow licensed gun holders to carry their weapon inside facilities with a Class D Liquor License, such as restaurants and bars.

..."Guns and alcohol don't mix. I would say I agree," Baus said. "But that's not what we are changing with this law."

March 18, 2010
WRGT TV (FOX 45 Dayton) - Gun owners in the Buckeye State may soon have more rights

March 18, 2010
Lancaster Eagle-Gazette - Changes to concealed carry come under fire

Ken Hanson, legislative chair of the Buckeye Firearms Association, said 42 states, including each of Ohio's neighbors, allow permit holders to carry in establishments where drinking occurs, provided they stay sober during their visit.

"It hasn't proved to be a problem (for those states)," he said.

...Hanson said this legislation was about coming in line with the rest of the nation.

"Ohio is the only state of 48 (with concealed-carry laws) to micromanage how you carry in a car," he said.

March 17, 2010
Cincinnati Enquirer - Bill would allow guns in restaurants

Jim Irvine, chairperson for the Buckeye Firearms Association, said 42 out of the 48 other states that permit conceal carry already allow guns in eateries that serve alcohol.

"It's something that's worked in most of the other states and we should realize that and do it here. There's really no downside," he said. "We're not talking about mixing guns and alcohol. We're not talking about using guns while drinking or under the influence. We're talking about keeping your gun on your person secure and being able to defend your life while having lunch."

The group says that since 2004, about 200,000 concealed-carry licenses have been issued by county sheriffs in Ohio.

March 11, 2010
Ohio News Network - Top Ohio Court Will Hear Gun Case

"We believe a city like Cleveland should have the right to regulate guns and gun purchases," said Doug Smith, Ohio Against Handguns

Smith said the decision is a step in the right direction for gun opponents. He believes home rule allows cities like Cleveland to decide what's best.

The Buckeye Firearms Association disagrees and said the court action could be a waste of time.

Spokesman Ken Hansen feels the home rule issue will fail with the justices.

"A fundamental right is a fundamental right. Whether it's one foot outside the city limits or one foot inside the city limits you have the same rights," said Ken Hanson.

March 8, 2010
Wooster Daily-Record - Concealed Carry numbers up in Wayne, Holmes

More and more Ohioans became certified to carry a weapon in 2009.

..."People who carry concealed weapons are not some small fringe group," Jim Irvine, chairman of Buckeye Firearms Association said in the release. "We are becoming more mainstream every day."

March 7, 2010
Armed American Radio

March 6, 2010
Armed American Radio

March 4, 2010
The (University of Toledo) Independent Collegian - Number of concealed carry licenses increases in Ohio

According to the Buckeye Firearms Association Web site, President Barack Obama is a main contributor to restrictions against the Second Amendment, which protects U.S. citizens' right to bear firearms, and Obama has a long history of fighting against gun rights and is "possibly the most anti-gun president ever elected."

According to the BFA Web site, some members of the firearm association believe many citizens are rushing to get these licenses before Obama outlaws them altogether.

March 2, 2010
BigJournalism.com - Are You Packing Heat? Your Local Newspaper May be Planning to Out You

Two and a half years ago, when readers of the Sandusky Register in Ohio opened the paper on June 25, 2007, many were shocked to find their name, age and county of residence published alongside those of nearly 2,700 other law-abiding private citizens. At the top of the page read only the title, “Sandusky County Concealed Carry List“, accompanied by a menacing graphic with the words “Conceal Carry: Who Needs to Know?” cunningly framed around a gun’s scope. While the page offered no other content or context whatsoever, the lack of such more than set the tone. It may as well have been headlined, “Hey – Fear These Scary Gun-Toting People.

...In several follow-ups on the matter, groups like the Buckeye Firearms Association doggedly went after Westerhold, challenging his blatant abuse of his current and former positions with newspapers to openly promote his own anti-concealed-carry agenda. The organization continued on with some creative investigatory work of its own that produced posts such as “It’s About Privacy (& the Sandusky Register Secretly Employing Sex Offenders)” and one in which they published a host of public record information about Mr. Westerhold himself, including his home address, his mortgage financing information, a photo of his house and the car he drives, and information containing a speeding violation. (That action in particular even caught the attention and won the praise of Rush Limbaugh).

...There are similar concealed-carry confidentiality battles going on in many other states, many of which Buckeye Firearms in Ohio has done a fantastic job of researching and reporting in great detail.

When describing the bias that exists on the issue of gun rights, Chad D. Baus, Vice Chairman of Buckeye Firearms Association, and NRA-certified firearms instructor, summed up the issue in a post from July 2009:

While the "right to privacy" is spoken highly of by everyone from adulterous politicians to the ACLU, pro-gun activists across the fruited plain are finding that attitudes among the elites are much different when it comes to exercising one's right to bear arms for self-defense without the judgmental glare of the ignorant and uninformed. It is clear that, while progress is being made, the fight for concealed carry confidentiality is far from over.

March 1, 2010
WTAM 1100 AM (Cleveland)

March 1, 2010
Ohio News Network (ONN) - Concealed Carry Licenses At All-Time High

Last year a record 56,691 concealed weapons permits were issued in Ohio. The previous high was 45,497 in 2004. Ohioans now carry nearly 200,000 concealed handguns.

Experts say they know why.

"I mean Eric Holder as Attorney General. Rahm Emanuel Chief of Staff. This is the all-star dream team for the anti-gun force being put in place," according to Ken Hanson from the Buckeye Firearms Association.

Hanson said President Obama's election, and cabinet picks, sparked massive gun sales early last year.

"You couldn't order guns in for four or five months after the election," Hanson said. "Just because the demand went through the roof."

While gun owners feared Obama would confiscate their weapons, Hanson said that has not been the reality.

"The National Parks bill is a great example of that. Bush had eight years to deal with that, and didn't even start looking at it until the last six months of his administration. Here we have the first six months of an Obama administration, and he signs a bill," said Hanson.

February 28, 2010
WTAM 1100 AM (Cleveland)- Concealed carry permits soar

Some blame high unemployment for the rise. "As the economy goes down crime goes up and people are arming themselves for the first time," claims Linda Walker, central Ohio chair of the Buckeye Firearms Association. "People are scared and we definitely have a different government than we have 10-to-20 years ago."

February 27, 2010
Associated Press - Ohio hits record for concealed handgun licenses

Jim Irvine, chairman of the Buckeye Firearms Association, says he thinks more people are concerned that President Barack Obama is going to do something to limit gun ownership.

February 27, 2010
Cleveland Plain Dealer - Ohio concealed gun licenses shoot way up in 2009; firearms supporters and opponents cite President Obama as reason

"I think President Obama being anti-gun and the fear that he was going to do something to affect gun ownership, I think drives a lot of these numbers," said Jim Irvine, chairman of the Buckeye Firearms Association.

...The Obama effect becomes clear when the Ohio figures are given a closer look.

In the first six months of 2009, around the time and soon after Obama took office, Ohio issued 34,244 permits. That was 380 more licenses than the state issued for all of 2008.

And in 2008, nearly one-third of concealed carry licenses issued were handed out during the fourth-quarter of that year, around the time Obama was elected.

"That makes the argument for the President Obama fear factor," Irvine said.

...And Irvine said Ohio's gun laws over the past couple years have received some tweaks and changes that makes the rules for carrying clearer.

For example, in 2006, Ohio lawmakers passed legislation allowing licensed gun owners to carry guns hidden in their vehicles when driving which eliminated a complicated "plain sight" rule.

February 26, 2010
NRANews.com

February 26, 2010
News Talk 610 WTVN (Columbus)- Concealed handgun licenses set record in 2009

The number of concealed handgun licenses issued in Ohio surged to a new high in 2009.

...Gun advocates say politics and the recession get the credit.

"As the economy goes down crime goes up and people are arming themselves for the first time," said Linda Walker, central Ohio chair of the Buckeye Firearms Association. "People are scared and we definitely have a different government than we have 10-20 years ago."

February 26, 2010
Dayton Daily-News - Record number of Ohioans get gun permits

Chad Baus, spokesman for Buckeye Firearms Association, attributes the upswing to two factors: modifications in the concealed carry law that took effect in 2007, making it easier to carry weapons more places, and the election of Barack Obama.

"He is probably the most anti-gun president we've ever had," said Baus, who hears this concern from students in his CCW classes.
Baus said the CCW law is a success.

"I think the jury is in, the verdict is in. This has been something that people can protect themselves with,” he said. “We haven’t had the blood in the streets, fender-bender shootings that some predicted."

February 26, 2010
WYTV (ABC Youngstown) - Conceal Carry Law Arms More Ohioans

The concealed handgun law has only been on the books in the Buckeye State since 2004, but more and more Ohioans are taking the necessary steps to exercise their right to arm and protect themselves and their families.

..."Sales of guns were through the roof last year," said Rick Kaleda, Mahoning County chairperson for the Buckeye Firearms Association. "And responsible citizens being responsible are going to want to take the next logical step and get the training and licenses and everything that they need to be safe."

...More gun licenses were awarded in Columbiana and Trumbull Counties than Mahoning. Kaleda says Mahoning County makes the whole process more difficult. "Mahoning County is the only county in the state that requires that a citizen prove they've been a resident by providing documentation that they've been a resident of Ohio for five years."

...NRA certified instructors such as Miller and Kaleda teach a state approved 12-hour concealed carry class. It's 10 hours in the classroom and two on the shooting range. But the class doesn't guarantee you a gun license. It just means you can apply for one, and begin the necessary background check with your county sheriff's office.

February 7, 2010
Centre Daily-Times - Permit law changes could cost county

When someone asks Ken Hanson with the Buckeye Firearms Association where to go for a Pennsylvania firearms license, he points them to the Centre County Sheriff's Office.

"I know from experience that Centre County has a professional operation and gets the license turned around," said Hanson, legislative chairman of the Ohio group.

The reputation draws thousands of out-of-state applications for licenses to carry concealed firearms into Centre County each year — and thousands of dollars in revenue for the county. But that money will likely dry up in 2011 when a state law aimed at standardizing and modernizing Pennsylvania’s licensing takes effect.

February 7, 2010
WBZI 1500 AM's "The Great Outdoors" radio program

February 7, 2010
WBZI 1500 AM's "The Great Outdoors" radio program

January 31, 2010
Armed American Radio

January 8, 2010
NRANews.com