Central Ohio Friends of the NRA Banquet

The Central Ohio Friends of the NRA banquet was held March 4, 2006 at Villa Milano. As always, the event was well attended, with approximately 250 supporters present. Ken Hanson and his wife Sharon were present to represent Buckeye Firearms.

The event featured fundraisers including a silent auction, a live auction, and multiple raffle items. Supporters were very generous and aware of the spirit of the event, with many items selling for hundreds of dollars above their retail value.

Also in attendance were several politicians running for office. Franklin County Recorder Rob Montgomery was present and lead the pledge of allegiance. BFA endorsee Rep. Tim Schaffer (www.schaffer2006.com), who is running for Senate in the 31st District, was present and had an opportunity to discuss firearms issues with Ken. Rep. Ron Hood (www.ronhood.net), who is also running for Senate in the 31st district, was also present.

Senator Joy Padgett, who is BFA co-endorsee Jim Petro’s (www.jimpetro.com) running mate, attended and took time to discuss concealed carry issues with Ken and several other concealed carry instructors who were present. Senator Padgett also told Ken she will be attending the gun owner’s forum at Blackwing Shooting center on March 18th. Numerous staff and volunteers with the Petro campaign were also present to answer questions and discuss firearms issues.

John Mitchell (www.reformcongress.com), running against Mike DeWine for US Senate, was present and made a point to sit down with nearly every table and discuss firearm issues and his views on reforming government. John Met with Ken and confirmed he will be attending the gun owner’s forum at Blackwing on March 18th.

BFA endorsee Senator Tim Grendell (www.TimGrendell.com) attended and met with Ken to discuss firearm issues, and went to great lengths to thank BFA for their efforts on his behalf in primary endorsement contests. BFA volunteers, together with other grass roots groups, have made a huge difference in these primary fights, resulting in Tim winning the endorsements away from Betty “I’m not the candidate of the NRA” Montgomery. He urged us to keep up our efforts, we are making a difference!

Good times and good food for a good cause made for a great evening. Thanks to the COFNRA folks for a great event.