Do my club dues cover the cost of using the Panther Top Shooting Range (range use fee)?
No, your club dues cover the administrative costs of the club. Range use fees are collected by the United States Forestry Service (USFS) as they own the land the range is on, and they determine the range rules and availability of use. Under an agreement with the USFS, the MCR&GC is responsible for maintaining the condition of the range.
In addition to ensuring a mechanism for the continued operation of the Panther Top Shooting Range, what do I get with my membership?
Members receive the club’s newsletter, MCR&GC News, five times annually, and invitations to club events, such as the annual Christmas party. By attending monthly club meetings, members receive information from various experts and operators in the wildlife conservation, fishing, hunting, shooting and related activities.
What is the purpose of the 50/50 drawing at monthly meetings?
The 50/50 drawing allows the club to supplement for the costs each month of renting a meeting location suitable to meet the club’s needs. If a venue is obtained at no cost, the drawing helps to defray future costs, especially if it becomes necessary to find a new location, and it allows winners to share in the revenue. Tickets are sold for $1 each or six for $5. The winner takes half the collected amount. Participation is entirely voluntary, but it has proven popular among those in attendance.
Do any MCR&GC members regularly meet for shooting sporting clays?
Yes, contact Tom Coy at 828-835-3576 for details.
Note: trap, skeet, sporting clays or use of any aerial target is prohibited at the Panther Top Shooting Range.
What do club meetings consist of?
Any applicable club business is presented for discussion and decision as necessary. Pertinent information is shared with members, and meetings usually have a guest speaker who makes presentations of interests to attendees. Meetings are also a great opportunity to get to know and socialize with other members.
If I am unable to attend meetings due to work or other commitments, how can I participate?
Every month club members are emailed a copy of the minutes from the previous meeting. This allows those unable to attend to keep up with the business aspect of the club. Also, we publish a quarterly electronic newsletter which is emailed to members, and posted to the website (see Newsletters). By being a member, you help ensure the club remains viable in order for the Panther Top Shooting Range to remain open. You also have the opportunity to attend the annual Christmas banquet, or perhaps periodically attend a monthly meeting where you can meet and socialize with your fellow members. The MCR&GC is a very welcoming group, and it provides a chance to link up with others who share your enjoyment of fishing, hunting and the shooting sports.
Is the MCR&GC just for Cherokee County residents?
No, we have regularly participating members who live in Hayesville, Blairsville, Young Harris and the surrounding areas. A number of our members are part-time residents and live as far away as Florida and Illinois.
I don’t hunt or fish, I just like to shoot. Is there a place for me?
Most certainly! Without the MCR&GC, the Panther Top Shooting Range would not exist. Club members reflect a diversity of interests. If you enjoy hunting, fishing, wildlife conservation, and the shooting sports, there’s something for everyone.