Buckeye Firearms Assoc. attends USSA's 11th Annual Save Our Heritage Rally

By Gerard Valentino

Several members of Buckeye Firearms joined hunters, anglers and trappers from across that state at the recent United States Sportsman’s Alliance's 11th Annual Save Our Heritage Rally held at the Aladdin Shrine Temple on September 15th.

The event, as always, was well organized and guns, hunting trips and other outdoors accessories were given away by the truckload - including a Bennelli shotgun won by yours truly! (I hesitated mentioning winning an item like this, it is the first time I have EVER won anything, so I can’t help but gloat).

The keynote speaker, Governor Ted Strickland, was the highlight of the event. His quick but powerful remarks included a promise that while he was Governor our rights as gun owners and outdoorsmen would never be eroded. His exact words were, “I may not have control over the legislature, but I have control over the veto pen.” With that statement the Governor got the final standing ovation of three.

When he was announced, it was noted that in the ten years the USSA has held its banquet this was the first time a sitting Governor ever attended as a keynote speaker, leading to the Governor’s second standing ovation of the evening.

He also put his money where his mouth was by purchasing the maximum amount of raffle tickets, which was apparent by the orange hat he wore was given only to those that made the highest donation possible. In typical fashion, he didn’t actually put his tickets in the hopper, so although he donated he didn’t give himself a chance to win.

Overall the event was well attended, and as usual one lucky attendee left $10,000 richer. Unfortunately, it wasn’t any of the Buckeye Firearms Association attendees - oh what this PAC could do with a $10,000 donation!

If you’re looking for a good time among fellow outdoorsmen, attending the USSA banquet is an excellent event where lots of great prizes are given away. It’s also a great way to support an excellent cause and an excellent chance to support a group that supports us.