Thursday Bulletin – December 11, 2025
Executive Director's Message Richard Pearson |
Introducing - The “ISRA Paladin” Sustaining Membership I am pleased to announce that the ISRA is introducing our new sustaining membership. The membership is called the “ISRA Paladin.” When you become an ISRA Paladin, you join the
front line in defending the Second Amendment in Illinois. Your commitment helps power the ISRA’s training, education, and legal efforts that protect the rights of every law-abiding gun owner in our state. What is a PALADIN—and why should you become one? In the time of King Charlemagne, the Paladins were his most trusted and honorable knights—sworn to act with courage, defend the innocent, and protect what was
just. Their loyalty and leadership made them legends. Today’s ISRA Paladins carry that same spirit. They stand firm for freedom, safeguard the innocent, and defend our rights against those who would take them away. You can be a Paladin member and an Annual, Life, Endowment, Benefactor, or Patron member concurrently. Every bit helps. Your invitation to this membership should be arriving in the USPS mail
starting this week. The letter will explain the further details of the ISRA Paladin membership. If you would like to become a ISRA Paladin member, please call the office at 815-635-3198. Thank you for your continuing support of the mission of the ISRA! UK Descends Further Into Tyranny - British Man Arrested For Posting Photos With Gun Excerpt from article in Ammoland.com – December 1, 2025 by David Codrea. Jon Richelieu-Booth, a British IT consultant, was arrested after posting a photo of himself online, where he was posing with a shotgun. Earlier this year, Richelieu-Booth was visiting his friends in Florida and was offered a chance to shoot. His friends snapped some photos of him with the shotgun. Proud of his accomplishment, he posted a photo of himself with the gun to his LinkedIn account. After returning home to the UK, he
says he was “put through 13 weeks of hell.” The West Yorkshire Police initially paid Richelieu-Booth a visit, stating they were investigating the online posting. He was given a warning to be cautious what he said online. It wasn't long, however, before the Police were back and arrested him for “possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and a further allegation of stalking related to a photograph of a house
that appeared on his social media.” He was able to bail out but was re-arrested later and charged with violating bail conditions. Ultimately, the bail charges were dropped, as were the firearm and “stalking” charges, “but … he was charged with a public order offense relating to a different social media post… of displaying ‘any writing/sign/visible representation with intent to cause harassment/alarm or distress.'” That charge was also dropped, but his
phone and computers have been seized. Lasting damage to Richelieu-Booth’s employment prospects might be the end result of this unbelievable series of events. To read the entire article, CLICK HERE. In my opinion,
the UK is a perfect example of the undermining of Western values across the globe. Anyone, any group with nefarious motives, can hurl accusations against another they deem a “threat” to their way of thinking. This has become a well-worn tactic of anti-gun and leftist groups. Litigation, used as a tool to silence opposition, has become a weapon of choice. That is why it is SO important to continue to support the ISRA! We are on
the forefront of defending Second Amendment rights in Illinois. So please... take the time to become a member, renew/upgrade your membership, sponsor someone else to join or make a contribution to the ISRA today. Thank you for your continued support! Join the ISRA Today! Donate HERE today! LAST CALL! - “Citizen's Use Of Force – Lawful And Justified To Criminal Attack” Class At The ISRA Range Renowned instructor Jeff Chudwin is going to present "Citizen's Use of Force-----Lawful and Justified to Criminal Attack" at the ISRA Range on December 14th from 9:00am to
1:00pm. You may sign up on the ISRA website. There will be other speakers as well. For ISRA members, the class is $50 which includes your spouse or significant other. For non-ISRA members, the cost is $75 a person. For anyone concerned about self-defense inside or outside the home, this is a must take class. Mr. Chudwin is both a former State's Attorney and Police Chief. CLICK HERE for the total description and to sign up for the class. Pending Federal Law To Make Surplus Military Shotguns Available The National Defense Appropriations Act ( NDAA ) would authorize the Civilian Marksmanship Program ( CMP ) to sell surplus military shotguns. Of course, the NDAA would have to pass, as it is, and be signed by the
president. If enacted in law, Mossberg 590A1s, 500s, Remington 870s and Winchester 1200s would become available. I will bet there are a few Ithaca 37s, Remington 31s and Winchester Model 12s somewhere in the mix. What if there were a few Stevens 520-30s hidden away somewhere? Anyway, at this point, it's somewhere between a possibility and wishful thinking. Let's hope. NSSF Background Check Numbers The National Shooting Sports Foundation ( NSSF ) reports 530,156 background checks were completed the week prior to, and including, Black Friday. On Black Friday alone, 165,183 background checks were completed. We received calls about some delays, which happens this time of year. But, as Black Friday is one of the busiest, if not THE busiest, day of the
year, this is not surprising. ATTENTION - Deer Hunters We would like to publish pictures of your deer in the Illinois Shooter. Please send us a photo with your name, the county in which you bagged the deer, and what type of firearm you used. Please email your pictures and info
to member@isra.org . Litigation Update ISRA AS PLAINTIFF We are still waiting on a ruling on Harrel v. Raoul from the Seventh Circuit which we hope to get soon. ISRA SUPPORTING Schoenthal v. Raoul (public transportation CCL case) (7th Cir.) – Judgment in Seventh Circuit for State; Petition for writ of certiorari has been filed at the Supreme Court. The Second Amendment
Foundation, the Connecticut Citizens Defense League and several individual plaintiffs have filed an appeal to the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) in case of Grant v Rovella, the Connecticut "assault weapons ban." That is one more nudge toward getting SCOTUS to decide on so-called assault weapons bans. Thanks to all those who have and will continue to support the ISRA in our efforts to protect the Second Amendment in Illinois. This fight is far
from over. We need extra support right now, so please... donate HERE. If you would like to mail a check to the ISRA Legal Assistance Committee (donations to the ISRA LAC are tax
deductible), please send to: ISRA Legal Assistance Committee PO Box 494 Chatsworth, IL
60921 Not an ISRA member? Join the ISRA and support 2A rights in Illinois - click HERE. Legislative Update The General Assembly will
reconvene for the Spring 2026 session on January 13th. The House deadline for drafting is January 16, 2026, and the deadline for the Senate drafting is February 6, 2026. You can find a PDF of the House calendar HERE and a PDF of the Senate calendar HERE to view all the legislative session
deadlines. We have reserved the Bank of Springfield Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, Springfield Illinois, for IGOLD 2026 on April 15, 2026. Dave McDermott, a well known Second Amendment attorney, will be one of the speakers at IGOLD 2026. You won't want to miss his address. Please mark your calendars to reserve this date. You can follow along by
clicking the ISRA Legislation Page. “Money can only buy happiness if you spend it on freedom. Join the ISRA today.” ~ Richard Pearson ISRA Colt Anaconda 44 Magnum Raffle – Tickets Now Available Buy your tickets early for the ISRA Colt Anaconda 44 Magnum Raffle! Drawing will be held on February 17, 2026. Entries must be postmarked by February 9, 2025. TICKET
PRICES:
• 1 for $10
• 3 for $25
• 7 for $50
• 15 for $100 You need not be present to win. Dues and donations to the ISRA are NOT tax deductible. Winner of the Colt Anaconda must comply with all federal, state and local laws. Winner has 90 days to claim prize. Scan the QR code in the ad or Click HERE for more info. Questions? Call the ISRA office at: 815-635-3198. We appreciate your continuing support! Every ticket you buy helps keep Illinois gun owners strong, trained, and protected. We’ve stood for your rights since 1903 — and we’re not slowing down. Thank you for standing with
us! ISRA Memorial Brick Fundraiser – Honor Your Mentors We all have people in our lives who have influenced our lives in a positive manner, we do not want them forgotten. My father is a perfect example, he taught me how to shoot, hunt, and many other life lessons.
He was a WWII veteran with two purple hearts, I did not want him to be forgotten. To remember people like my father and those in your life that have made a positive impact over the years the ISRA has established a Memorial Brick Project. The memorial bricks are laid out around the flagpole at the ISRA Range in Bonfield, IL, which is located near Kankakee, IL. Please look over the attached flier and consider buying a brick for someone who has made a difference in your
life. For more info or to order your commemorative brick today, CLICK
HERE. ISRA Ruger 10/22 Collector Series Raffle – Tickets Now Available Buy your tickets early for the ISRA Ruger 10/22 Collector Series Rifle Raffle! Drawing will be held on January 7, 2026. Entries must be postmarked by December 30, 2025. You need not be present
to win. Dues and donations to the ISRA are NOT tax deductible. Winner of the Ruger Rifle must comply with all federal, state and local laws. Winner has 90 days to claim prize. Scan the QR code in the ad or CLICK HERE for more info or to purchase tickets. Questions?
Call the ISRA office at: 815-635-3198. ISRA Gen-5 Glock 30 Raffle - Tickets Now Available Right now, you can enter to win a pre-owned Gen 5 Glock 30® with six magazines. This pistol is gently used—fired less than 500 rounds—and calibered in .45 ACP.
It’s a solid, dependable choice for any Illinois gun owner. This raffle helps fund the ISRA’s work: training, safety programs, and defending the rights of law-abiding firearm owners across Illinois. Your support makes that possible. TICKET PRICES:
• 1 for $10
• 3 for $25
• 7 for $50
• 15 for $100 Drawing Date: February 3, 2026
Mailed entries must be postmarked by January 26,
2026.
You do not need to be present to win.
(All state and federal laws apply. Prize must be claimed within 90 days.) To get your tickets, CLICK HERE. Or call the ISRA office at 815-635-3198 and we’ll help you over the phone. Every ticket
you buy helps keep Illinois gun owners strong, trained, and protected. We’ve stood for your rights since 1903 — and we’re not slowing down. Thank you for standing with us. ISRA Range – Once Fired Brass For Sale If you are an ISRA member and reload your own ammunition the ISRA Range has once fired brass for sale. Please contact Mike James at 847-456-3386. “I am frequently asked if the ISRA sells our membership list. The answer is absolutely not.” ~ Richard Pearson Education & Training @ ISRA Range, Bonfield, IL.
December 11 (Thursday) CCL Renewal & Qualification – Range 11 & Clubhouse – 9:00am – 12:00pm December 11 (Thursday) Air Pistol Training – Range
12 & Clubhouse – 5:30pm – 7:00pm December 14 (Sunday) “Citizen's Use of Force – Lawful and Justified Response to Criminal Attack” – Clubhouse – 9:00am – 1:00pm December 18 (Thursday) Air Pistol Training – Range 12 & Clubhouse – 5:30pm – 7:00pm December 27 (Saturday) Armed Women of America – Range 11 & Clubhouse – 9:00am – 12:00pm December 27 (Saturday)
CCL Renewal & Qualification – Range 11 & Clubhouse – 1:00pm – 4:00pm January 8 (Thursday) ISRA Precision Air Pistol Training – Range 12 & Clubhouse – 5:30pm – 7:00pm January 11 (Sunday) NRA Basic Rifle Shooting Course – Range 11 & Clubhouse – 8:30am – 5:00pm January 15 (Thursday) ISRA Precision Air Pistol Training – Range 12 & Clubhouse – 5:30pm –
7:00pm January 17 (Saturday) NRA Basic Instructor Training (BIT) – Clubhouse – 8:30am – 2:30pm January 18 (Sunday) NRA Basic Rifle Instructor – Range 11 & Clubhouse – 8:30am – 6:00pm January 22 (Thursday) ISRA Precision Air Pistol Training – Range 12 & Clubhouse – 5:30pm – 7:00pm January 29 (Thursday) ISRA
Precision Air Pistol Training – Range 12 & Clubhouse – 5:30pm – 7:00pm January 31 (Saturday) Armed Women of America – Range 11 & Clubhouse – 9:00am – 12:00pm *** Please contact academy@isra.org for any training or class questions and check the ISRA Range for links to dates, times,
descriptions of ISRA activities and events.
ISRA Members: View the Fall 2025 Shooter HERE. The Illinois State Rifle Association is the home of marksmanship in Illinois Tidbits December 11, 1961 – The ferry
carrier, USNS Core, brings the first 31 helicopters into Vietnam. Helicopters would become a symbol of the Vietnam War. December 12, 1787 – Pennsylvania becomes the second state to ratify the Constitution. December 12, 1868 – Vigilantes grab Frank, William and Simeon Reno from their jail cells in Seymour, Indiana, and
lynch them. 'the Reno brothers had murdered a guard before making off with $10,000 in cash and gold. They pulled off the first train robbery in the United States. Another Reno brother, John, was convicted of robbing a County Treasurer in 1868 and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Pinkerton detectives were actually the ones that caught the Reno brothers. December 12, 1937 – The Japanese attack the capital city
Nanking, of China. This would eventually become known as the “Rape of Nanking”. The Japanese butchered 150,000 male war prisoners and 50,000 male civilians, in addition to raping and killing at least 20,000 Chinese girls. One of my college professors was Dr. Ying Ching Chang. He was a student in 1937 and helped to load and float the entire National Library of China down the river to save it from Japanese destruction. The stories that he told were
horrific, to say the least.
December 13, 1799 – George Washington, America's Revolutionary War General, first President of the United States and leader in so many ways, dies. George Washington set the course for the United States with his courage and integrity. It would be a good idea if today's leaders would study his courage, his honesty and his integrity. It's quite evident that most of them
haven't. December 15, 1791 – The Bill of Rights is ratified. The first 10 amendments become part of the United States Constitution, and part of America's tradition of civil liberties. This is Bill of Rights Day... celebrate it! December 16, 1773 – The Boston Tea Party is held and the British were not invited. American
colonists, disguised as Mohawk Indians, boarded ships owned by the British East India Company and dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor to protest the tax on tea. The organization behind the tea party was actually the Sons of Liberty, and underground colonial resistance group. December 16, 1950 – President Harry Truman declares a state of emergency over the Korean War. December 17, 1872 – Buffalo Bill Cody makes
his first stage appearance in his new show “Scouts of the Prairie”. It was a somewhat enhanced version of his own real-life adventures. Buffalo Bill was born in Iowa in 1846. His famous western show played all around the world and was still touring upon his death in June of 1917. While the gun show information shown in this email is believed to be accurate, sometimes changes occur. This is provided for informational purposes only. If your club or organization is holding a gun show, event or class, let us know the details, and we’d be happy to post it in our Weekly Range
Schedule. Dec. 13 – Dec. 14, 2025 Kankakee Gun & Sportsman's Show, Kankakee County Fairgrounds, Kankakee, IL. Dec. 14, 2025 Kane County Sportsman's Show, Kane County Fairgrounds, St. Charles, IL. Feb. 14 – Feb. 15, 2026 Central Illinois Gun Collectors Association – New Berlin Gun Show, Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin,
IL. March 28 – March 29, 2026 Belleview Gun & Knife Show – Belle-Clair Fairgounds, Belleview, IL. March 28 – March 29, 2026 Sauk Trail Gun Show, Bureau County Fairgrounds, Princeton, IL. Other Events Jan. 3, 2026 Highland Pistol
& Rifle Club International Pistol Event, Highland, IL. Jan. 10, 2026 Sandy Ford International Pistol Event, Sandy Ford Sportsman Club Indoor Range, 720 S Bloomington St, Streator, IL. Feb. 7, 2025 Highland Pistol & Rifle Club International Pistol Event, Highland, IL. Feb. 14, 2026 Sandy Ford International Pistol Event, Sandy Ford Sportsman
Club Indoor Range, 720 S Bloomington St, Streator, IL. Mar. 14, 2026 Sandy Ford International Pistol Event, Sandy Ford Sportsman Club Indoor Range, 720 S Bloomington St, Streator, Illinois April 11, 2026 Sandy Ford International Pistol Event, Sandy Ford Sportsman Club Indoor Range, 720 S Bloomington St, Streator, IL. ISRA Grassroots Monthly Meetings
Come and meet fellow activists and learn the latest on protecting our Second Amendment Rights! Northwest
Suburban - 3rd Tues – Golden Corral 591 S Randall Rd, Algonquin, IL 60123 ; Doors open 6pm; Meeting 7pm – 8pm South Suburban/Cook County - 2nd Thurs – Kenootz Pizza, 4659 147th St., Midlothian, IL; Doors open 6:30pm; Meeting 7pm – 8pm Will County - 3rd Wed – Silver Dollar Restaurant, 422 E. Mississippi Ave., Elwood, IL; Doors open 6pm; Meeting 7pm –
8pm
Livingston County – 4th Saturday of the month – South Post Guns, 104 Livingston Rd., Streator, IL; Social Hour 4:30pm – 5:30pm; Meeting 5:30pm – 6:30pm Madison County – 1st Wednesday of the month – Piasa Armory, 625 Lewis and Clark Blvd., East Alton, IL; Doors open at 6:15pm; Meeting starts at 6:30pm (NO
MEETING IN DECEMBER- WILL RESUME IN JANUARY) Stand
Strong &
Thank you for being a member! |
|
|
