BYLAWS AND POLICIES OF THE FALMOUTH ROD AND GUN CLUB, INC.

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1 BYLAWS AND POLICIES OF THE FALMOUTH ROD AND GUN CLUB, INC.

2 CONTENTS Welcome Letter 2 Mission Statement 4 History of the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club 5 Map of Club Property President s Safety Message Bylaws of the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club General Club Policies Principles of Firearm Safety Policy on Range-Rules and Safety Violations General Policy Regarding Use of Firearms on Club Property Indoor Range Policy Outdoor Range Policy Archery Range Policy Policy on Club Events and Club-Hosted Classes or Instruction That Involve Live Fire of Firearms or Archery Release of Liability for Events at Falmouth Rod & Gun Club, Inc. Firearms Safety Course Student Statement and Liability Release Agreement Emergency Medical Action Plan (EMAP) Policy Regarding Firearm or Archery Incidents That Compromise Safety on Club Property Firearm or Archery Incident Report Range Refresher Training Policy Sponsor Responsibilities Initiation Fee and New-Member Dues Adjustment

3 Prospective Member Guidance New Member Responsibilities Policy on Cleaning Assignments for New Members Bar Committee Policy Indoor House Policy Club Kitchen Policy Clubhouse Rental Policy Club Rental Contract Club Grounds and Wildlife Habitat Policy Policy Regarding Unauthorized Persons on Club Property Donations Policy Policy on Committees Policy on Updating Club Bylaws and Club Policies Life Member Policy Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp Policy Reimbursement Agreement Gus Canepa Memorial Award Application Form for Gus Canepa Memorial Award

4 Welcome Letter Congratulations and welcome to one of the finest clubs in the state! We re glad to have you join us and we look forward to your active participation and steadfast commitment to furthering our mission and goals. The Falmouth Rod and Gun Club was established in The Club now owns approximately 186 acres of land in Falmouth and Mashpee, and it has a maximum membership of 300 (not including additional Life Members). The men and women of the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club all have a common interest in the outdoors (hunting, fishing, shooting, and land conservation) as well as in developing lifelong friendships. Monthly Club business meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month at 7 PM. Many members gather early for conversation and cheer. Our meetings begin with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by discussions of Club activities, finances, and committee reports. Meetings end with a drawing of a member s name for a cash prize (the member must be present to win). Committees meet the second Thursday of every month at 7 PM. Each member of the Club serves on one or more committees. Examples include: House Committee (interior and exterior maintenance of the clubhouse), Grounds Committee (maintenance, repair, and improvement of exterior grounds), Range Committees (maintenance and improvement of indoor and outdoor ranges), and so forth. The Club has many separate committees, and all members will have an interest in one or more of these. The names of committee chairmen are posted on the bulletin board in the dining room; call the chairman of your assigned committee as soon as possible to get involved. The Club's "Fun Night" (dinner night) is held on the third Thursday of every month at 7 PM. Dinner Committees are organized for each month and they prepare the meals. Dinners run the gamut from baked beans and hot dogs to roast beef, and they are open to both members and their guests (the cost of a meal is minimal, usually $10). Social hour starts around 5 PM for many. The elected Club Officers (4), Immediate Past President, and Directors (6) constitute the Board of Directors, and they attend to the normal day-to-day business of the Club. The Board meets on the last Thursday of every month at 7 PM. Board meetings are open to all members. However, in order to speak at a Board meeting, a member must seek permission from a Board member prior to the start of the meeting. The Club Secretary publishes a monthly newsletter. The newsletter is distributed electronically to all members near the end of the month, and paper copies are also available near the Club entrance door. In the newsletter you will be able to read about both old and new business of the Club. It is your responsibility to be aware of Club Communications, Policies, and Bylaws. Keep the Secretary updated on any or other address changes. One important benefit of membership in the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club is the use of the Clubhouse. You can purchase an electronic card key at the bar after you complete a

5 range-safety walkthrough; then you have access and use of the Clubhouse 24/7. All members must sign-in and sign-out in the logbook at the front door. With the card key comes the responsibility to look after the Clubhouse. You are welcome to bring guests but you must sign them in, accompany them, and ensure that they act responsibly. In addition, any guest who uses the bar must sign-in at the bar. If you are the last one to leave the Club, be sure that all interior lights are off, that windows and doors are shut and locked, and that you activate the alarm system. Members may rent the clubhouse for their private functions. The clubhouse and shooting ranges will be closed to all other members and guests during the rental period (unless noted otherwise). Rental requests are submitted for approval to the Board of Directors. Fill out a Rental Request Form and present it to the Board of Directors who will either approve or disapprove the request. Rentals are posted on the Club calendar and in the monthly newsletter. The Club's liquor license requires that only the Club shall provide any liquor consumed on the premises. SAFETY is paramount on all ranges. Range RULES are posted at each range. The Club Bylaws and Club Policies give full details about the Club property, organization, and activities as well as your responsibilities as a Club member. You are accountable to conduct yourself in a responsible, adult manner, with integrity and commitment to the mission and values of the Club. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask a Club Officer or Director for information. Again, we welcome you to the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club. Sincerely, Falmouth Rod and Gun Club Officers and Board of Directors

6 Mission Statement of the Falmouth Rod & Gun Club, Inc. 1. To maintain a Club with an ample game preserve and adequate facilities where hunters and fishermen can enjoy congenial company and the fellowship that comes from mutual interests. 2. To promote the interest of all legitimate sport of rod, gun, and bow. 3. To encourage the propagation and protection of fish and game through cooperation with government and non-government organizations. 4. To assist in training youths and adults in the use of firearms, fishing tackle, and archery, and in the principles of sportsmanship and conservation. 5. To promote respect for the rights of farmers and property owners. 6. To organize and promote fishing, shooting, archery, and conservation activities and contests within the Club and with other clubs. 7. To assist, by appropriate means, in the improvement, conservation, preservation, and access to Cape Cod seashore, lake, pond, stream, and forest systems. 8. To promote, support, and protect the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution and the interests and rights of legitimate gun owners.

7 History of the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club The founding members started gathering in 1931 and fifteen members established the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club in Initially, meetings were held in homes and businesses. In 1948, Dr. Steven Carey donated land to the Club and members then built the clubhouse. The Club was officially incorporated in Most recently (2004) the Club building was expanded with an addition built exclusively by Club members. For more than 60 years, monthly Club dinners have been held and more than 100 youths have been sponsored to attend the 10-day Massachusetts Junior Conservation Camp. Over the years, the Club has been very active in town activities such as the annual Falmouth Christmas Parade and the initial furnishing of Room 202 of the newly built Falmouth Hospital. Moreover, in 1961 the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club was instrumental in the establishment of the Falmouth Conservation Commission. Today the Club is very active in Toys for Tots, Fresh Start, veteran s programs, and local conservation projects. The Club has at least three families that have had members for over three generations: the Baker, Cardeiro, and Augusta Families. Many members have contributed greatly to the success of the Club. Periodically the Life Member Committee selects as a Life Member a Club member who has shown exemplary dedication and service to the Club for more than 10 years.

8 ASHTON AVE ANTONE AVE Map of Falmouth Rod & Gun Club Property ODONNELL AVE NANCY AVE ELAIN AVE Mashpee Falmouth FRESH POND SURREY LN OLD VALLEY RD MACCINI WAY CARRIAGE SHOP RD You are here BONNIE LN ALTONS LN Falmouth Rod and Gun Club Miles Yards Approximate Parcels Town Boundary STANHOPE RD Map produced for the Falmouth Rod & Gun Club using data from MA GIS, Falmouth GIS, and Masphee GIS departments. Parcel data is a representation and should not be used for legal boundary definition, regulatory interpretation, or property conveyance purposes. USGS, MassGIS

9 President s Safety Message As a member of the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club, each of us are part owners of our Club. Thus, we each bear responsibility for the overall safety and well being of the Club. If you see something, say something. Call Knock it Off or Cease Fire as the situation dictates and correct the issue on the spot; then contact a Club Officer or Director. We are each the eyes and ears of the safety program and we each wear the all-important safety hat. All activities, special events, and functions should be structured with safety in mind. We will always attempt to mitigate hazards and minimize safety issues. So, whether you are in the kitchen, on the club fields, on a range, or elsewhere on Club property, always embrace our safety culture and be part of the solution to any problem that may arise. Familiarize yourself with, and follow all Club policies, particularly the elements that deal with safety. As President I have an open-door policy on all safety-related concerns and I want to deal with these concerns aggressively. Speak up so that such issues can be addressed and resolved quickly and so that the full membership can be briefed of the issues and solutions. Safety and safety practices are not static. Operations, techniques, technology, and equipment continually change and evolve; thus, as new lessons are learned, educating our membership on new and better safety practices will continue to be a top priority. Thank you for making safety a top priority. The reputation and the future of our Club depend on it. Be Safe!

10 FALMOUTH ROD AND GUN CLUB, INC. P.O. BOX 161 Falmouth, MA BYLAWS ARTICLE I NAME This Club shall be known as the Falmouth Rod and Gun Club, Inc. (hereafter, the Club). ARTICLE II PURPOSE A. To maintain a Club with an ample game preserve and adequate facilities where hunters and fishermen can enjoy congenial company and the fellowship that comes from mutual interests. B. To promote the interest of all legitimate sport of rod, gun, and bow. C. To encourage the propagation and protection of fish and game through cooperation with government and non-government organizations. D. To assist in training youths and adults in the use of firearms, fishing tackle, and archery, and in the principles of sportsmanship and conservation. E. To promote respect for the rights of farmers and property owners. F. To organize and promote fishing, shooting, archery, and conservation activities and contests within the Club and with other clubs. G. To assist, by appropriate means, in the improvement, conservation, preservation, and access to Cape Cod seashore, lake, pond, stream, and forest systems. H. To promote, support, and protect the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution and the interests and rights of legitimate gun owners.

11 ARTICLE III MEMBERSHIP AND DUES A. Limit on Club Membership. The Board of Directors sets the limit on total Club membership. No one shall be elected to membership beyond this limit, except that the limit may be waived by a majority vote of the Board of Directors when a prospective member is a direct lineal descendant of a current member in good standing. B. Annual Dues and Initiation Fees. The Board of Directors shall set annual dues and initiation fees. Dues are payable on or before June 1 st of each year. Any dues payment, either in person or postmarked after June 1st, shall be assessed a penalty as determined by the Board of Directors. If dues are not paid by June 30 th, membership is terminated. For extenuating circumstances, a majority vote of the Board of Directors may waive late fees or reconsider membership termination. C. Prospective Members. Applicants for Club membership shall be sponsored by one or more current members in good standing. The applicant shall work with the sponsor(s) to fill out an Application For Membership, and the sponsor(s) shall submit the application directly to the Club Vice President or, in the Vice President s absence, the Club President. Mail-in applications will not be accepted. The applicant s name will then be placed on a waiting list of prospective members, following the order in which applications have been received. The applicant and sponsor(s) will be scheduled to meet and interview with the Board of Directors at a regularly scheduled Board of Director Meeting. The applicant shall pay a one-time, non-refundable initiation fee at the time of this meeting. The Board of Directors will schedule two readings of the applicant at two different monthly business meetings. At the First Reading, the sponsor(s) will introduce the name of the applicant and comment on his/her background and fitness for Club membership, and other members may comment. The Board of Directors can schedule a Second Reading at any time after the applicant has completed the requirements for membership. The requirements are 1) participation in two Club functions and 2) participation in two work details. The applicant is expected to complete the requirements not later than one year following the applicant s interview meeting with the Board of Directors. If the requirements are not completed at the time that the Board of Directors is prepared to schedule a Second Reading, the applicant shall automatically fall to the bottom of the waiting list of prospective members. The applicant will be rescheduled for a Second Reading when his/her name again reaches the head of the waiting list. The Second Reading shall take place at a regular business meeting, but only after notice has been posted in the Club newsletter or the Club membership has been notified electronically. The sponsor(s) will again comment on the applicant s qualifications for membership, and other members at the meeting may comment. Prior to this meeting, the applicant shall be investigated by the Board of Directors,

12 and the Board s recommendation shall be read to members at the time of the Second Reading. Voting shall take place immediately following the reading and comments. The voting process shall use a secret ballot box that contains white balls (indicating a vote in favor of the applicant) and black cubes (a vote against the applicant). Any applicant who receives 10 or more black cubes during the vote shall not be elected to membership. Upon election, the new member shall pay his/her annual dues before membership becomes effective. If not elected, the applicant has the right to be reconsidered for membership. The applicant s name will go to the bottom of the waiting list of prospective members and will be rescheduled for a Second Reading when his/her name again reaches the top of the waiting list. The applicant s name shall be posted in the Club newsletter or the Club membership has been notified electronically before the Second Reading. Newly elected members are on probation for one year. During that period they must attend at least three regular business meetings. Failure to meet this requirement is grounds for termination of membership, at the discretion of the Board of Directors. D. Membership Waiting List. The Club maintains a waiting list of individuals who desire to become Club members. Names are added to the list in the order that applications are received as per Article III Section C. There is no limit on the number of applicants that may be on the waiting list, but interviews with the Board of Directors extend only to the 20 people who are at the top of the list at any given time. E. Resignation, Leave of Absence, and Reinstatement. Requirements for becoming a Club member shall be waived for any past member who left the Club in good standing and who submitted a letter of resignation that was approved by a majority vote of the Board of Directors at time of separation. The Board will not accept a resignation letter while the member is indebted to the Club or before the member has paid the full dues of the membership year. To regain membership in the Club, the past member shall submit to the Board of Directors a letter that requests reinstatement. This request shall then be published in the Club newsletter. The past member shall subsequently appear before the Board of Directors, which will decide the question of reinstatement by majority vote. If reinstatement is approved, the past member s name will go to the top of the membership waiting list (but behind any past member names already waiting for reinstatement) and the past member will be reinstated when a membership slot becomes available. Any member in good standing may apply in writing to the Board of Directors for a leave of absence, stipulating the period over which the absence will occur. The member will appear before the Board to explain the request unless extenuating circumstances prevent appearance in-person. The Board will decide on such requests by majority vote. When a leave of absence is granted, the member s dues and membership privileges shall be suspended for the duration of the leave. The Board will determine how suspended dues will be prorated, based on the current Dues Policy. Members who are on leave of absence count as part of the total membership limit of the Club.

13 ARTICLE IV OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS A. There shall be 4 Officers elected by the Club membership: President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Recording Secretary. There shall be 2 additional Officer positions appointed by the Board of Directors: a Communications Secretary and an Assistant Treasurer. Members in these 2 positions will serve as described in Article VI in the absence of the Recording Secretary or the Treasurer. B. The Board of Directors shall consist of the 4 elected Officers, the immediate Past President, the Assistant Treasurer, the Communications Secretary, and 6 other Club members elected as Directors by the Club membership. The Assistant Treasurer and Communications Secretary shall be non-voting members of the Board except as specified in Article VI. Members of the Board of Directors shall attend at least 8 of 12 regular monthly Board meetings within the year following election unless excused by the Board. The Board of Directors shall consider failure in attendance sufficient grounds for removal. C. The Club Officers and Directors (except the immediate Past President, Assistant Treasurer, and Communications Secretary) shall be elected by ballot at the Annual Meeting in March of each year. Terms of office shall be one year or until successors are elected. D. The President shall serve for no more than 2 consecutive terms, and the 6 elected Directors shall serve for no more than 3 consecutive terms. Six months or more of service shall constitute a full year. The President and Vice President shall serve for a total of no more than 4 years in each position, and Directors shall serve for a total of no more than 18 years as Directors. ARTICLE V ELECTION OF OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS A. A Nominating Committee shall be appointed annually by the Board of Directors no later than the time of the monthly Board meeting in December. The Nominating Committee shall consist of 5 Club members in good standing. B. No incumbent Officer or Director shall be a member of the Nominating Committee. C. One appointee to the Nominating Committee shall be designated Chairman pro tem by the Board of Directors. He/she shall call the first Committee meeting and preside until the Committee elects a Chairman. D. The Nominating Committee shall devise a slate of proposed Officers and Directors, and the Chairman shall submit the proposed slate to the Board of Directors. The

14 proposed slate shall be announced to the Club membership by the Board of Directors at the February business meeting, and it shall be published in the newsletter that precedes the Annual Meeting in March. The proposed slate shall be voted on by the Club membership at the Annual Meeting. E. Prior to the Annual Meeting, the Nominating Committee shall prepare paper ballots listing the proposed slate of Officers and Directors, leaving blank spaces to allow for nominations from the floor. F. The Chairman of the Nominating Committee shall conduct the election at the Annual Meeting. The Nominating Committee shall act as the election clerks and shall count the ballots and determine the duly elected Officers and Directors. The voting period will close 10 minutes after ballots are distributed. G. The newly elected Officers and Directors shall assume office immediately upon verification of the vote. ARTICLE VI DUTIES OF OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS A. The President shall preside at all Meetings of the Club. The President shall, with the Treasurer, sign all written contracts as authorized by the Board of Directors and shall perform other duties that are prescribed by the Club Bylaws or are usually incident to the office of the President. The President shall be an ex-officio member of all committees except the Nominating Committee. B. The Vice President, in the absence or disability of the President, shall assume and perform all the duties of the President during the latter's absence or disability. In the absence or disability of both the President and Vice President, the Board of Directors shall elect a President pro tem to serve until the President or Vice President is able to do so, or until the next election of Officers at an Annual Meeting, whichever comes first. C. The Recording Secretary shall attend the monthly meetings of both the Board of Directors and the general membership and shall record the proceedings of those meetings. The Recording Secretary shall also prepare the Club newsletter and perform such other duties as the President or the Board of Directors shall, from time to time, prescribe. In the absence of the Recording Secretary, the Communications Secretary shall assume all duties of the Recording Secretary and shall have a voting seat on the Board. In addition, the Communications Secretary shall also perform such other duties as the President or the Board of Directors shall, from time to time, prescribe. D. The Treasurer shall keep all the financial accounts and, with the President, shall sign all written contracts. The Treasurer shall collect all initiation fees, dues, miscellaneous fees, transfers of income from the bar and Club functions, and other

15 amounts owed to the Club and shall deposit the same in the name of the Club in a repository approved by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall delegate to the Treasurer the authority to pay all bills. The Treasurer may be the sole signatory of checks not to exceed $2, The President must cosign greater amounts. If the President is unavailable to cosign checks in excess of $ , the President may provide a written electronic or paper authorization of the payment. A copy of this authorization shall be maintained for the annual audit. The Treasurer shall report in writing the state of Club finances at all monthly Board of Directors meetings. In addition, the Treasurer shall make an oral report at all monthly business meetings. On or before the business meeting 4 months after the end of the fiscal year, the Treasurer shall make a report of the annual finances of the Club for the previous fiscal year. In the absence of the Treasurer, the Assistant Treasurer shall assume all of the Treasurer s duties and shall have a voting seat on the Board. The bar maintains a separate checkbook to pay bar bills. Every month, bar profits shall be reported to the Board and the Club membership and shall be transferred to the Club Treasurer. E. The Board of Directors shall be responsible for the general direction, control, and management of Club activities, business, and property. The Board shall determine membership dues and fees and shall have the power to authorize the execution of any contracts on behalf of the membership. The Board shall not approve an expenditure exceeding $1, without approval by a majority vote at a legally constituted meeting of the Club membership. The Board may fill any Officer or Director position that becomes vacant due to death, resignation, disability, or removal. The Board of Directors shall appoint chairmen and members of committees as specified in Article VII. ARTICLE VII COMMITTEES A. The Nominating Committee shall be a standing committee that is constituted and operates as specified in Article V. The Committee membership shall be determined annually by the Board of Directors. B. The Board of Directors shall appoint a Chairman of Finance and Insurance who shall select two additional Club members to comprise a standing Finance and Insurance Committee. Membership of this Committee shall be determined annually. This Committee shall review financial and insurance matters and advise the Board of Directors thereon. The Committee shall perform an annual audit on both the Club's and Bar s financial records within 150 days after the end of the fiscal year and then report its findings at the next monthly business meeting.

16 C. The Board of Directors shall create, and at its discretion disband, such other committees as the Board deems necessary for the efficient operation of the Club and its activities. Chairmen and members of these committees shall be appointed by the Board of Directors. Each committee chairman shall appoint an assistant chairman from his or her committee to serve in the absence or disability of the committee chairman. Committee chairmen and committee members serve terms that are at the discretion of the Board of Directors. D. Committee meetings can be held on the second Thursday of every month or as otherwise called by a Committee Chairman. Committee Chairman will hold at least one full committee meeting each year. ARTICLE VIII MEETINGS A. Regular business meetings of the Club membership are held on the first Thursday of every month. B. Special meetings may be called by the President at any time, and such meetings shall be called by him/her upon written request of 20 Club members. In the event of the President s neglect, the Recording Secretary shall issue the call. Electronic notice that states the purpose of such meeting shall be sent to all Club members and posted at the Club at least 7 days prior to said meeting. C. The Annual Meeting shall be held in the Town of Falmouth on the first Thursday in March of each year, and written or electronic notice of such meeting shall be sent to all Club members at least seven days prior to the meeting. The President shall see that the election of Officers and Directors shall take place at the Annual Meeting. D. At regular business meetings, special meetings, and the Annual Meeting, a quorum shall consist of 35 members. E. Board of Directors meetings are held on the last Thursday of every month, except in the event of such Thursday falling on a holiday. The Board may then schedule such a meeting at its discretion. At Board of Directors meetings, a quorum shall consist of 7 Officers and Directors (the Communications Secretary and/or the Assistant Treasurer attending in a nonvoting status shall not be counted in the quorum). F. Special meetings of the Board of Directors may be called at any time by the President or Vice President. G. At all meetings, members shall comply with Club Bylaws, Club Policies, and any other rules of conduct that may be promulgated by the Board of Directors.

17 ARTICLE IX SUSPENSIONS AND EXPULSIONS A. The Board of Directors may, by a two-thirds majority vote at any official Board meeting, suspend or expel any Club member who shall violate any rule of the Club or whose conduct appears to the Board to be injurious to the best interests of the Club. When feasible, a written notice of the charges preferred against the member shall be sent to the member at his/her last known address at least one week before the meeting at which such charges are to be considered, together with a notice of the time and place of such meeting. The member shall be entitled to a hearing at said meeting. If the member is unwilling or unable to attend the meeting, the Board of Directors shall have the power to act at its own discretion to protect the interests of the Club. B. If a member is suspended, the Board of Directors will determine the period of suspension and so inform the member in writing. The member s rights and privileges in the Club and the use of Club property are revoked during the period of suspension. At the end of that period, the Board may reinterview the suspended member and decide by a two-thirds vote whether to end or continue the suspension, or to expel the member. The aforesaid notwithstanding, the Board may review the case at any time during the suspension period and take further action to protect the interests of the Club. C. In the event of expulsion, and provided that the member s dues have been paid, he/she shall be reimbursed for dues of the current membership year on a pro rata basis according to the current Dues Policy. The member s rights, privileges, and use of Club property, as well as all interest, if any, in the Club property shall thereupon cease and all Club property shall be returned. ARTICLE X AMENDMENTS TO THE BYLAWS These Bylaws may be altered, amended, or repealed by a majority vote of a quorum, as herein defined, at any Annual Meeting, special meeting, or regularly scheduled business meeting of the membership, provided that notice of such proposed alteration, amendment, or repeal must appear in two consecutive Club newsletters prior to the meeting at which such vote is taken. ARTICLE XI ENCUMBRANCE OF REAL ESTATE No sale, mortgage, lease or other voluntary encumbrance of the real estate owned, leased, or to which this Club has title or any interest therein shall be valid or legally binding upon this Club unless:

18 (1) Authorized by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors at a Board meeting, a quorum being present; and (2) Authorized by two-thirds vote of the Club members present at a regularly scheduled business meeting, a special meeting, or an Annual Meeting, a quorum being present; and (3) Electronic notice was provided to all Club members and posted at the Club at least 7 days before the meetings described in paragraphs (1) and (2). ARTICLE XII RULES In all cases to which they are applicable, and in which they are not inconsistent with the Bylaws of the Club, the rules contained in Roberts Rules of Order (Revised) shall govern actions of the Club. ARTICLE XIII INDEMNITY The Falmouth Rod and Gun Club, Inc. will indemnify and hold harmless any Director, Officer or Club member from any suit, damage claim, judgment, or liability arising out of or asserted to arise out of conduct of such person in his or her capacity as a Director, Officer or Club member while performing services for the Club, except in cases involving willful misconduct. ARTICLE XIV SEVERABILITY CLAUSE In the event any provision or part of these Bylaws are found to be invalid or unenforceable, only that particular provision or part so found, and not the entire Bylaws, shall be inoperative.

19 General Club Policies Policies of the Falmouth Rod & Gun Club, Inc. (hereafter the Club) can be set and/or amended at any time by the Board of Directors. All Club functions, activities, meetings, and rentals are scheduled by the Board of Directors. Electronic notification to the membership shall be considered as written notice. Funding approved for any item, operating expenses, or project expires at the end of the fiscal year in which it was approved. Funds not used by the end of the fiscal year will be returned to the general fund of the Club. The fiscal year ends on March 31 st. Funding can be renewed at a Board of Directors meeting (if under $1,500.00) or at a business meeting during the new fiscal year. The Board may also authorize payment for unanticipated operating expenses or for the purchase of non-capital items up to $1, The Club President is authorized, at his discretion, to spend up to $ per month for miscellaneous Club business, not to exceed $2, in any fiscal year. The Club President, at his discretion and for the purpose of conducting an orderly meeting, may ask the bar manager, or in his absence, the bartender, to close the Club bar during any Board meeting or business meeting. Monthly Board of Directors and business meetings are open to all Club members in good standing. Club members may speak and bring issues to the Board, provided that they obtain prior permission from a Board member, who will inform the Club President before the Board meeting. At business meetings, members may ask to be recognized and to speak at the time that Old Business or New Business is brought before the membership. Time permitting, the member should inform a Board member of the issue to be raised prior to the business meeting so that the Board member can inform the Club President and the issue can be placed on the agenda. When a member opens the door and enters the Club using their key card the member must sign in, in the logbook by the front door; when leaving, the member must sign out. Any guests accompanying a member must also sign in and sign out. Names and times in/out are to be printed legibly. Only members are allowed to access the Club using a key card. When the door has been deliberately unlocked for large Club events (business meetings, fun nights, game feeds, etc.) this sign-in/sign-out procedure is not required. The logbook is also to be used to document any areas of concern (unlocked doors, windows, lights left on, etc.). If any Club property is borrowed, the borrowed items must be logged in the logbook along with the borrower s name, the date the items were borrowed, and the date they will be returned. Items may be borrowed for a maximum of 48 hours. When items are returned, they must be so logged in the logbook along with the borrower s name. Members may not give away or dispose of any Club property without the consent of the Board of Directors. Any member choosing to give away Club property (example: tickets for a function) does so at the member s own expense. The member may ask the Board to

20 be reimbursed, and the Board will decide if reimbursement is in order. Club maintenance equipment (lawnmower, weed whacker, tractor, brush mower, etc.) is not available for loan, rent, or use outside Club property. However, under very unusual or extenuating circumstances, the Club President or his designated alternate may grant permission for use of such equipment on other than Club property; in such situations the equipment will be operated only by Club members. Any Club member is entitled to close any of the three Club ranges for safety reasons. The member must promptly notify a Club Officer or Director, as well as the appropriate Range Officer, of the action taken and the reason for the action. The range(s) will remain closed until the Board of Directors has determined that the safety issue is rectified. Notices of range closure and reopening will be posted at the location of the range signin/sign-out logbook. The Club does not provide letters of support for individual pistol permits nor does it endorse candidates for public offices. Articles requested to be included in the Club's newsletter must be presented in either electronic format or hardcopy to the Club secretary no later than second Thursday of the month. Club membership is open to individuals age 21 and older who are legally residing in the United States. Procedures for membership application and election are given in the Club Bylaws. The monthly meeting schedule of the Club is as follows: 1 st Thursday Business meeting 2 nd Thursday Committee meetings 3 rd Thursday Fun night / dinner Last Thursday Board of Directors meeting (unless it falls on a holiday)

21 PRINCIPLES OF FIREARM SAFETY 1. ALWAYS treat your firearm as if it were loaded, even if you know it is not. 2. ALWAYS keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. 3. NEVER point your firearm at something you don t intend to shoot. 4. KEEP your finger outside the trigger guard until you are ready to shoot. 5. KEEP your firearm unloaded when it is not actually in use. Never leave your firearm unattended without unloading it first. 6. DON T RELY on your gun's safety it s a mechanical device that can fail. 7. BE SURE of your target and what lies beyond it. 8. BE SURE that the barrel is clear of obstructions before you shoot. 9. BE SURE that your firearm is safe to operate. Don t alter or modify it; have it serviced regularly. 10. KNOW the mechanical and handling characteristics of your firearm before you shoot. 11. USE ONLY the correct ammunition for your firearm. 12. IF YOUR FIREARM FAILS TO FIRE when the trigger is pulled, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction and wait at least 30 seconds before unloading. Make sure that the barrel is clear of obstructions before reloading. 13. WEAR eye and ear protection when shooting. 14. MAKE SURE that those around you follow the safety rules.

22 Policy on Range-Rules and Safety Violations The Club has made continuing modifications to our archery, indoor, and outdoor ranges to improve safety and security for our members, guests, and neighbors. These include mandatory range education and walk-throughs for all members; improved ventilation for the indoor range; roof, overhead baffles, new benches, and reinforced fencing for the outdoor range; installation of security cameras; and complete reviews and rewrites of all Range Rules. Despite these improvements, there have been incidents of range and safety violations by members and their guests. These violations include: - Unsafe handling of firearms, and live ammunition left on the ground - Range damage (lights shot out, bullet holes in indoor-range ceiling / outdoor-range roof) - Damage to outdoor-range target supports - Shooting at targets too close to the firing line at the indoor range - Shooting in front of the firing line at the indoor range - Shooting from the outdoor range benches when another person is in front of the benches - Shooting on the outdoor range during a Club rental (ranges are closed during a rental) - Use of the ranges by members who have not completed the range safety walk-through. All Club members should be intensely concerned about any unsafe handling of firearms or archery equipment, or abuse of our ranges. If an accident happens, or if damage or danger to our neighbors occurs, our ranges could be shut down by the authorities. The Board of Directors, under the authority of Article IX of the Club Bylaws, has acted to terminate or suspend some Club members who have violated the Range Rules. THEREFORE, ALL MEMBERS TAKE NOTICE: The Board of Directors has implemented the following policy with regard to members who violate Range Rules, cause damage to any range, or exhibit unsafe handling or operation of firearms and archery equipment: - First Violation: Up to 90 days suspension from the Club or the Ranges and reimbursement for range repairs - Second Violation: Up to 1-year suspension from the Club or the Ranges and reimbursement for range repairs - Third Violation: Termination of Club membership Notwithstanding the above, if any member s conduct or violation of Club rules appears to be injurious to the good order or welfare of the Club, the Board may act, under Article IX of the Club Bylaws, to terminate that person s membership in the Club. If you see any member or guest acting in an unsafe manner or violating Range Rules, contact a member of the Board of Directors immediately. I have read and understand this policy, and I agree to abide by all Range Rules. Signature: Date: Name (printed): Range walk-through: Yes No Range Walk-through date: General Policy Regarding Use of Firearms on Club Property

23 1. Firearms may be discharged on Club property as follows: a) On the indoor range. b) On the outdoor range. c) On other outdoor Club property only during hunting seasons as defined by the Massachusetts General Laws. 2. Discharge of firearms seen or heard under conditions other than noted above should be reported immediately to the Club President or, in his/her absence, the Club Vice President.

24 Indoor Range Policy These instructions shall be read by all new members before they are given a range walkthrough. Current members are obligated to keep themselves up to date on changes that may be announced periodically in the Club newsletter. Range use and safety. 1. Safety is paramount. Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Every member of the Falmouth Rod & Gun Club is responsible for ensuring that no situation arises to compromise the safety of anyone in the clubhouse or using the range. Members are obligated at all times to maintain a safe shooting environment. 2. Club members in good standing may use the range but only after they have received a range walk-through and been issued a Range Rule Card. Members must carry the Range Rule Card when using the range and have it available for inspection by any other Club member. They may bring guests but they assume responsibility for the control and safety of their guests and for the welfare of the range. In addition, members bringing guests to the range are allowed to use only two stations (maximum) regardless of the number of guests. 3. The indoor range will not be used for law enforcement training or qualification of any kind. Law enforcement may train and qualify on the outdoor range only. 4. Any person intending to use the range will assure that the Range In Use signs are hung on the doors that access the dining area from the recreation room and the kitchen. 5. All shooters (both members and guests) shall read and understand the Principles of Firearm Safety, the Range Policy, and the Release of Liability, all of which are posted in the range observation area. 6. All shooters (both members and guests) shall sign in and sign out in the range logbook. Full names are to be used and printed legibly. By signing in, all shooters certify that they have read and will abide by the Principles of Firearm Safety, that they will follow all instructions in the Range Policy, and that they agree to the Release of Liability. Failure to abide by the Principles of Gun Safety may, at the discretion of the Board of Directors, be grounds for termination of Club membership. I did not know is not an excuse. The logbook is also to be used to record any problems encountered or issues noted (e.g., damage) when using the range. 7. The close proximity of adjacent shooting stations requires that each shooter act as a range safety officer. Firearms are to be kept pointed downrange at all times when on the firing line. All firearms are to be kept unloaded with magazines removed and actions open when they are not on the firing line. Chamber flags or a locking safety device should be used and removed ONLY when the firearm is at the firing line and pointed downrange. 8. On the day that any shooter uses the range, the shooter is strictly prohibited from

25 consuming alcohol or consuming drugs that affect mental acuity prior to and during use of the range. Alcohol is prohibited on the range. 9. Eye and ear protection shall be required of all persons at and behind the firing line, even if they are not actively participating in shooting. 10. No handgun of caliber larger than.44 magnum (e.g.,.454 Casull,.480 Ruger,.50 S&W, etc.) is permitted on the range. In addition, any.44 magnum ammunition fired must be non-jacketed lead. Wad cutters and hollow points do the most damage to the range curtain, so their use should be minimized. 11. No shotguns, rifles or rifle cartridges larger than.22 caliber rimfire, or black powder firearms are allowed on the range. 12. NO RAPID FIRE is allowed. 13. In the event of a misfire, which potentially could be a hangfire, keep the firearm pointed downrange and wait for at least 30 seconds before clearing the chamber. Misfires should be placed in the red steel box at the left side of the firing line. 14. When using the 25-foot target position for sighting-in a firearm, ALWAYS ASSURE THAT THE FIREARM IS AT THE SAME ELEVATION AS THE TARGET. This can be accomplished, as appropriate, by using one of the stools and a sand bag to support the firearm at the firing station when shooting from a standing position, or by using extended target hangers when shooting from a prone, kneeling, or sitting position. Extended target hangers are stored under the bench behind the firing line. Heat, lights, ventilation, and housekeeping. 1. Range heat is controlled by a thermostat next to the target bin and donation box. Overhead vents located immediately behind the shooting stations are to be manually opened before shooting and closed when finished. Make sure that the thermostat is lowered to 60 after the range is secured and before leaving the range. 2. The range light switches operate both the range lights and the ventilation fan. Do not disturb the ventilation fan switch, which is taped in the high position. 3. When you are finished shooting, gather your brass and put it in the marked container behind the firing line. DO NOT PUT STEEL OR ALUMINUM IN THE CAN MARKED BRASS. Dispose of non-brass cases in the trash. If you are the last person to leave the range, sweep up or squeegee the range floor and put unburned powder/residue into the marked container behind the firing line. 4. If you use Club targets, please put your donation in the box. 5. Lastly, ensure that the lights are turned off when you leave, and turn around the Range In Use signs on the main level of the clubhouse.

26 Outdoor Range Policy The outdoor range is open during the following hours: Weekdays and Saturday from 8:00 AM until sunset, and Sundays from 9:00 AM until sunset. Shooting at other times is not permitted. The following rules apply to both members and guests of members who use the Club s outdoor range. 1. Safety is paramount. Always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Every member and guest of the Falmouth Rod & Gun Club is responsible for ensuring that no situation arises to compromise the safety of anyone using the outdoor range or anyone within ballistic range of the firearm being used. Members and guests shall maintain a safe shooting environment at all times. 2. On the day that any shooter uses the range, the shooter is strictly prohibited from consuming alcohol, or consuming drugs that affect mental acuity, prior to and during use of the range. Alcohol is prohibited on the outdoor range. 3. Members in good standing may use the range, but only after they have received a range walkthrough and been issued a Range Rule Card. Members must carry the Range Rule Card when using the outdoor range and have it available for inspection by any other Club member. Members may bring guests but they must stay with their guests on the range. Members are responsible both for the control and safety of their guests and for the welfare of the range. In addition, members bringing guests to the range are allowed to use only two stations (maximum) at a time, regardless of the number of guests. (Note: this last sentence does not apply to law enforcement training). 4. All shooters (both members and guests) shall read and understand the Principles of Firearm Safety, the Range Policy, and the Release of Liability, all of which are posted at the sign-in/out station and also on the outdoor range behind the shooting benches. The sign-in/out station is located at the entrance to the outdoor range on the left side of the outdoor pavilion. 5. All shooters (both members and guests) shall sign in and sign out in the range logbook at the sign-in/out station. Full names are to be used and printed legibly. By signing in, all shooters certify that they have read and will abide by the Principles of Firearm Safety, that they will follow all instructions in the Range Policy, and that they agree to the Release of Liability. Failure to abide by the Principles of Gun Safety may, at the discretion of the Board of Directors, be grounds for termination of Club membership. I did not know is not an excuse. The logbook is also to be used to record any problems encountered or issues noted (e.g., damage) when using the range. 6. Animals are not allowed on the range. 7. Before shooting, shooters shall check behind backstops to assure that there are no safety issues.

27 8. Only Club approved targets (paper and permanent steel targets) are permitted. Targets that depict faces of real people are prohibited. 9. When anyone is downrange, no firearms are permitted on the firing line nor is any handling of firearms permitted; all firearms shall be unloaded with magazines removed and actions open, and they shall be stowed either on a rack or in a case behind the firing line. 10. The close proximity of adjacent shooting stations requires that each shooter act as a range safety officer. Firearms are to be kept pointed downrange at all times when they are on the firing line. When firearms are not on the firing line, they shall be unloaded with magazines removed and actions open, and they shall be stowed either on a rack or in a case behind the firing line. 11. During active fire, eye and ear protection is required of all persons at and in the immediate area of the firing line, even if they are not actively participating in shooting. 12. Notify other shooters when you are going to fire. Be courteous to all. 13. In the event of a misfire, which potentially could be a hangfire, keep the firearm pointed downrange and wait for at least 30 seconds before clearing the chamber. Misfires should be placed in the red misfire boxes located at the shooting stations. 14. NO RAPID FIRE is allowed. 15. Firing shotguns at targets mounted on homasote board on the permanent backstops is permitted. 16. Those wanting to shoot at targets on the permanent backstops at ranges of less than 100 yards may do so from a down-range position, with the following restrictions: A. Shooting from a down-range position is prohibited when others are using the shooting benches at the normal firing line. Likewise, shooting from the benches is prohibited when anyone is shooting from a downrange position. B. Any firearms located behind the active shooting position shall be unloaded and have their actions open, and they shall either be racked behind the shooting benches or be cased. C. A mobile bench is located at the side of the range about 25 yards from the 100-yard backstop. It can be moved out onto the range for use when shooting at the permanent backstop from a down-range position, but it is to be returned to the side of the range at the 25-yard mark when shooting is completed. 17. Portable target mounts are available for use at ranges of 25, 50, and 75 yards from the shooting benches. These are to be used ONLY when firing from the range benches. The mounts are stowed at the side of the range. When they are used, the mounts are to be placed in the PVC pipes that are set into the ground at the designated ranges. Shooting positions for firing at these targets from the range benches are posted at the benches, and shooters are required to use the correct positions to assure that all shots fired at these targets will hit the permanent backstop at 100 yards.