Lures of Outdoors: Let’s talk about this gun plan

For The ItemGovernor Deval Patrick proposed a bill in May, 2009 that is now being discussed on Beacon Hill that would limit gun purchases to one per month. Now let’s think about this for a moment. How will this help or stop the gang related violence and shooting that have taken place over the last few months? Were these shootings committed by law abiding citizens that purchased their guns legally? If we want to get serious about stopping gun violence, we need to enforce the laws that are already in place. For example, there is a mandatory one year sentence for illegal possession of a firearm. There is no need to pass any more laws just to say something was done. Let’s give law enforcement the backing they need to enforce the laws already in place. A good start would be toughening up sentences for those caught with illegal guns for starters. Until this happens nothing is going to change!Deer hunters don’t wait in line; apply on time! All deer hunters are reminded that in order to take antlerless deer during any deer hunting season, they must possess an antlerless deer permit. The July 16 application deadline is fast approaching. Applications postmarked after July 16 will not be accepted. Antlerless deer permit applications are found on paper licenses bought over the counter. Due to a printing problem this year, the line next to the name was not printed on the paper application and hunters have not included their names on the application. The Division reminds hunters to be sure to print their name on the antlerless deer permit application. Hunters who apply through the mail should be sure to double check that ALL name and mailing information has been printed on their application prior to mailing. Applicants are reminded that only online license holders may apply through the website for a permit. MassWildlife cautions deer hunters to refrain from assuming large quantities of over-the-counter permits will be available after permits are sent out.Have you ever taken a photograph that you thought was good enough to enter into a photo contest? Maybe a perfect sunrise or the one that didn’t get away! For the first time ever, Massachusetts Wildlife will devote an issue to a public photography competition, the 2010 Massachusetts Wildlife Photo Contest. Other than bragging rights, prizes are modest: a free, 2- year subscription to the magazine for the first-place winners in each category; and an award citation and four copies of the No. 4, 2010 issue of Massachusetts Wildlife for all first-, second-, and third-place winners. The photo contest is open to amateur photographers who may submit up to ten images. Photos must be taken in Massachusetts. There are eight entry categories: flora, scenic, outdoor activities, invertebrates, fish, herps (reptiles and amphibians), birds and mammals. Deadline for entry submission is Sept.1, 2010.Kittery Trading Post will be having a storewide summer celebration called Junefest for 10 days starting June 18th to the 27th. Throughout the store there will be featured specials in every department as well as free seminars and activities for the entire family to enjoy! Come and try before you buy kayaks and canoes on the store property. Lucky customers will also get the chance to Spin the Wheel for free prizes given away daily during Junefest.In closing this week, I want to wish all the Dads out there, a Happy Fathers Day.All for now.