TGS Outdoors - Sporting Goods Shop Comes To The Green - Branford, CT Patch

TGS Outdoors: Sporting Goods Shop Comes to the Green - Branford, CT Patch
10/1/13 11:37 AM
Editor Jenn McCulloch jenn.mcculloch@patch.com
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BRANFORD BUSINESS BUZZ

By Nicole Ball Email the author January 7, 2013
Business
TGS Outdoors: Sporting Goods Shop Comes to the Green

Some people want it to open, others strongly disagree. Wherever you stand, you should at least get to know the owners and the business before you decide:
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About this column: Keeping the pulse on the comings and goings of Branford businesses. Have a tip? Email branford@patch.com Related Topics: TGS outdoors, branford gun shop, and the gun stock
Everything Mike Higgins says now is calculated. It has to be. In a political environment where gun control has become the main topic of discussion on most news networks, Higgins is feeling the heat for planning to open a sporting goods shop near the Branford Green, which happens to sell shooting sports equipment, including guns. Hes also getting support from sporting enthusiasts and small business champions. But his idea to have an outdoor sports business placed on Main Street is not novel or pioneering at all. In fact, the plans to open this sporting goods store, now to be called TGS Outdoors it was formerly The Gun Stock with Brian Owens, is supposed to be like a re-birth of North Cove Outfitters the outdoors sporting goods shop, which operated on Main Street in Old Saybrook for 23 years before closing last March. Owens was a manager of the store for 18 years, specializing in the sale of fly fishing equipment, optics and shooting sports. The difference between Old Saybrook and Branford, said Ownes is the width of Main Street and the fact that there was median divider in the road in Old Saybrook. People would bring their kids in. There was no fear. It was a sportsman store as this will be, Higgins said. Higgins explains that he was a loyal customer of North Cove for years and got to know Owens at the store. It was a store I loved. I learned more about optics and telescopes from Brian than anyone else, ever. It was so much fun to go in there and see all the new things. I was so upset when it closed. But the closure of North Cove brought Higgins, a longtime insurance salesman, to consider opening a sportsman's shop of his own featuring the stores top-selling items. The main departments of TGS Outdoors will be archery, shooting sports and optics cutlery and hunting/target clothing will also be sold.
http://branford%20.patch.com/articles/tgs-outdoors-sporting-goods-shop-comes-to-the-green
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10/1/13 11:37 AM
Doing market research, Higgins and Owens decided Branford was the perfect location with its proximity to seven shooting clubs/ranges in a 35-mile radius one of which is in Branford. Members of these clubs, which cater to as many as 1,000 people each, are the new shops target demographic, they said. These are guys that Ive known all my life. They leave town and they go up to Newingtown or they go up to Cabelas and they spend money up there. So I would rather, as a local person, see money spent here, said Higgins. Shopping local is something Higgins is very familiar with as his wife Arabella Higgins was the owner of Arabellas a clothing and accessory boutique where TGS Outdoors will be. For more than a decade Arabella worked to make the business a success in the community. She chose to close the shop this past summer in favor of spending more time with her children. You can read more about her journey here. We are a small business and we support local small business, said Higgins. We hope they support us. Higgins, a native of Madison, said hes familiar with local downtown shopping and doesnt see anything different about the Branford Green from other towns. Downtown Branford doesnt have anything that every other downtown Guilford; Madison has. They all have beauty salons; they all have nail salons; they all have ice cream shops; they all have little restaurants. In order to bring new people in, you have to bring something different and North Cove Outfitters was that different thing. He added, We will be able to bring in people who would normally never come into downtown Branford; now they will. Already, Higgins and Owens say theyve had an impact and not the negative one some have alleged regarding their sale of hunting and target rifles as well as hand guns. How is this going to affect downtown? Weve already had an affect. Weve brought more business to downtown and were not even open, said Higgins. During one of their recent eight-hour courses, more than 20 students, some of whom had never been to the Branford Green, dined at Shoreline Caf and shopped at the local clothing boutiques shared Higgins. We are going to be a destination store. These people are going to come in together: one spouse may come here while the other one goes shopping along the street, said Higgins of his hope to add to local commerce. With merchandise for hunting and target shooting rifles, handguns and archery theres still the elephant in the room: will the business provide safeguards against potential crime? Higgins and Owens are quick to respond, Yes. An unnamed law enforcement officer said, You have more security than most of the banks in town, Higgins commented. Other safety measures include high-rated glass on the front windows, cameras inside and outside, bars on the windows on the side of the building and a locked metal gate, which will be pulled over the front doors when the business is closed. There are many other safety measures that the business owners do not want to divulge at the moment as well. The owners said residents should know that guns would never be on display in the stores windows. Instead, the casual passerby will see a scenic display: the current one features decoy ducks with spinning arms, a deer and trees, a 100-year-old trap clay target thrower and a brass spotting scope. In a past article about 2013 Branford Business Development, some readers wanted to know how the town would allow a shop that sold guns on the Green as well if the owners had received background checks? The short answer is that the town did approve this business for operation and, yes, the owners have endured federal background checks and licensing to open. Please see more details below. Although they hope to enhance downtown commerce, TGS Outdoors might not be staying on the Green for the long haul. Higgins and Owens said they have hopes to outgrow their space at 1156 Main Street with the goal to move to a place four times the size. Until then, Higgins and Owns said the goal is provide a small mom and pop shop for the outdoors sports enthusiast. Touting that they are probably one of the only outdoor sports shops with oriental carpets and matching burgundy overhead lighting fixtures, Higgins and Owens said they welcome anyone with concerns to stop by and see the business. They have plans to open within the month.
TGS Outdoors Merchandise

Shooting Sports Shot guns for skeet, trap, target and hunting Complete line of gun cleaning accessories Lock boxes for ammunition and guns Larger lock boxes for rifles Scopes Targets Hunting/Target clothing Traditional and compound archery bows and arrows Archery equipment, accessories and gear Optics Binoculars
http://branford%20.patch.com/articles/tgs-outdoors-sporting-goods-shop-comes-to-the-green Page 2 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
Spotting scopes Optics for bird watchers Telescopes Education & Service Books on hunting and shooting Free gun safety class CT Pistol Course (fee) Gun repair Cutlery Axes Knives Knife sharpening service Kitchen knives Pocket knives Gift knife sets
More on CT Gun Laws

No one with some excpetions for certain officials can carry or purchase a handgun in the state of Connecticut without a permit A rifle can be purchased with a 15-day wait period for background check It is mostly illegal for anyone in the state to possess an assault weapon (read more here)
Steps to Open TGS Outdoors

Owners called Branford Police Chief Kevin Halloran and ran business plan and intent by him. One week later, they received comment from Branford Police Department that they did not see an issue with owners proceeding. Owners approach Town Hall for approval. Because business does not require change of use (retail to retail), they do not appear in front of Board but are able to go through process with the department. The owners make an application for a Federal Firearms License (FFL). Owners are fingerprinted, have identification checked and submit to FBI background checks by the ATF to obtain FFL. ATF interviews owners, inspects the business and reviews records. Local law enforcement visits shop and is required to approve based upon their review of security system. (Branford Fire Department is also made privy to security and given a copy of keys in case of emergency). Owners receive FFL license. Prepare for opening Email me updates about this story. Enter your email address
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Stuart Brainerd
9:19 am on Monday, January 7, 2013
Flag as inappropriate
Thank you for the follow up article, I hope it has addressed some of the concerns that have been expressed following the previous one.
Reply
Robert B.
Why decide to just stop at hunting/target shooting, optics and cutlery? Why not include fishing equipment and supplies also to get local fishermen behind this as well? As far as I know, there's really nowhere in the center of town that sells rods, reels and tackle.
Reply
Mary Fitzgerald
I am sure they are very nice men but I think a store that sells guns in the center of town is terribly wrong. This is a walk by area where many families with children are seen. They say they will bring new people to town. Yes, gun owners I don't want the center of town to be a destination for hunters. I hope one of 2 things happens: they go out of business or move to bigger location. I hope that happens quickly.
Reply
Rockland Farm
1:12 pm on Monday, January 7, 2013
Why are Hunters any different than anyone else . They are not going to hunt on the green . They will just make a purchase and go about their business like any other customer in any other type of store .
Julia
5:44 pm on Friday, January 11, 2013
LOL, get a grip Mary. Take your meds and come back to earth.
Mike Butler
2:09 am on Saturday, March 23, 2013
OMG, that's ridiculous! You are such a hater! I hope someday you find peace! YOU are what's terribly worng!
Jenna
I find it interesting that when this business was first being talked about, it was a gun store. It's target market was women who wanted to buy guns.
10/1/13 11:37 AM
There was nothing about it in the beginning that said "Outdoor Sports". Now, half of Branford makes it clear they don't want a gun store on the green and all of a sudden it's all about outdoor sports and, oh yeah by the way, we also sell guns.
Reply
Rockland Farm
I see it as the owners simply trying to make a effort to explain their store better and appease anyones unfounded fears . They changed the name to try better reflect what the store is and what they want the store to grow into once they are established and the business grows . If you allready have a negative close minded attitude towards the store then what ever these guys say or do you will see as bad . Shame .
Julia
Yea that darn hardware store has to go to. Those mean looking knives and hammers ya know!!!!
Lindsay
Seems like a solid business. I'll be stopping in when they open.

Reply
Rockland Farm
Me too , And many many others .
Robert B.
@ Mary and Jenna: Yes, it does seem funny that at a time when the issue of gun control is a big one again, a store that looks to open specifically to sell firearms would turn around and say "Oh wait, we decided to sell more than just guns, and changed the name we were originally going to open with". Makes it feel like they're doing it as an afterthought. Not that I have any issue with a supposed "outfitter" shop coming to town, mind you. My issue is the fact there will be guns sold out of it, as well as bullets. Take into consideration there's events held on the green that draw large crowds as well as three schools within easy walking distance of TGS Outdoors. As we've seen with Adam Lanza's rampage at Sandy Hook, no amount of protective measures taken can stop a hellbent psychopath. Beyond that, why are they limiting themselves just to shooting supplies? Why not include fishing equipment as well as bait and tackle? How about camping equipment that you probably can't get at Walmart? Speaking as an on and off fisherman, the offerings for gear and services for my chosen pastime up at Walmart are lacking. I'd rather not drive to North Haven or Milford to go to Dick's or Sports Authority where it's more of the same from Wally. I'd also not spend half the day driving to Cabela's, either. It'd be nice to have a local shop where I could go there, gear up with whatever I may need, receive personalized service, and be down at the docks at Branford Point by the time the tide turns.
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Rockland Farm
Hi Robert B. , Just wanted to make sure you are not just talking about location now . It does appear from your post that you have a problem with guns and bullets . You posted a very similar post on the other Patch story about the store . And I replied but perhaps you did not see it or chose to ignore it .
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10/1/13 11:37 AM
Mike Butler
You have a problem with guns and bullets. And with the Constitution. What the HELL does having schools "within easy walking distance" have to do with ANYTHING???? Do you actually believe in your fevered mind that kids will go in there?????????? There are liquor stores even closer (which are nowhere near as regulated as gun stores)...what's your point???
J Lacey
Renaming and trying to soften the image of this business is wasted on the intelligent people of .Branford. TGS and or Gun Store does not belong on Main St. The owners have aright yo their business. I prefer it to be elsewhere.
Reply
Rockland Farm
Again if all you want to see is something bad thats all you will see . It does not bother me and many others with the ability for rational thought that the store is on Main St.
Michael Hoffman
11:10 am on Friday, March 15, 2013
I'm sure "the intelligent people of Branford" already own guns.
Mike Butler
We really are not interested in what you prefer their address to be. Main Street is EXACTLY where this shop should be; their products are completely legal (for those customers who pass strict background checks), and their clientele is upscale. I prefer their rename to be "Rifles and Pistols Etcetera." That would get the point across.
Deborah Holston Selden

A gun shop is a gun shop......not needed anywhere!

Reply
Rockland Farm
You are absolutely entitled to your opinion . As am I to say we need this store and more like it .
Julia
Planned Parenthood kills thousands of babies aday with taxpayer money. I bet youd have no trouble with them next doot right?
Michael Hoffman
Page 6 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
A print shop is a print shop......not needed anywhere! A defense attorney's shop is a defense attorney's shop......not needed anywhere! Should I continue or let Mary finish.
allen petri
10:55 pm on Friday, March 15, 2013
YOU ARE AN OPINIONATED LIBERAL FOOL! ANYTHING----YOU----DON'T LIKE SHOULD BE BANNED! IF I FELT THE SAME WAY---I WOULD SAY GOODBYE TO YOU, MOVE ELSEWHERE!
Robert B.
@ J Lacey and Deborah: Couldn't agree more based solely on the services they intend to offer as outlined above. I quote: "Shotguns, bows, crossbows, bullets, arrows, crossbow bolts". In short, even though they've changed the name, it is still a gun store and still should be forced out of the center of Branford. We don't need it as it currently stands in terms of their selection of offered goods, I can agree with that sentiment. However, the "pro second amendment" nutcases will more than likely show up and tear us to shreds for our views as they've done before. I'm not saying I don't want to see it opening, but it should not have been in the center, and should not be near schools and where children have been known to play. As to the location, it was stupid of them to not put it before the representative town meeting beforehand. I'm guessing they knew if they had, they would not have had a chance to open in the old Arabella's location.
Reply
ckb
2:27 pm on Tuesday, January 8, 2013
"pro second amendment nutcases"? If you are against the constitution, it's your right to leave the country, just as it is the right of the business owners to open a store of their choosing. Funny how you can assert that you may be "torn to shreds" yet you sit there and name call behind a computer and see nothing wrong with the hypocrisy. I'll give you an A+ for your dramatics though-"where children have been known to play"...where the parking lot? I never saw a playground on that site. I think you probably need to untwist those knickers a bit.
Robert B.
Also, consider the following: Not even a minute away by foot from TGS Outdoors, there is a candy shop. Would any parent in their right minds allow their child to go to a candy store that sits practically right next to a gun store. Would any family in their right minds want to come to the Branford festival knowing that within a 2 minute walk from the green there's a pile of weapons and ammunition? As I've said previously, nothing in terms of security can stop one hellbent psychopath. We've seen that before. James Holmes, Jared Lee Loughner, Adam Lanza, Cho Seung-Hui, Dillon and Klebold, the list goes on. One person, with the right tools to break a few locks, could break into this location, steal a gun, steal a magazine, load up in a couple minutes time and then there'd be bodies lying all over the green.
Reply
Rockland Farm
Well I know I was able to understand the part of the story when the Police Officer stated the store had better security than some of the banks in town . Oh and as far " a pile of weapons " .What do you think is down the road at the National Guard armory . Not to mention any that might be privately owned in homes surrounding the green . I rest easy knowing TGS has better security measures than those . You see these things as supplies for some hellbent psychopath bent on doing us harm . And I see them as supplies for us to be able protect ourselves from hellbent psychopath that want to do us harm . I honestly think most families would not give the store a second thought before they went into the candy store .
Page 7 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
Those mass shootings were horrible events and no one disputes it .But in all fairness if you are going to list them you should at least list the numbers of times people have used firearms to defend themselves and others . I believe that those people opposed to TGS or any gun store are letting their emotions get in the way of rational thought .
Jim..
It's so great to have local hometown sporting goods store , feels like the good old days when I was able to go to my favorite place and talk about fishing and camping stories. Thanks fellas
ckb
wow, get a grip. Do you really believe that a criminal is going to walk into a store and go through the process.
Ed B
6:58 pm on Wednesday, January 9, 2013
I would I have even brought my children into a gun store. But we left cause they were smoking in there.
Bruce Pantani
9:55 pm on Thursday, January 10, 2013
"Would any family in their right minds want to come to the Branford festival knowing that within a 2 minute walk from the green there's a pile of weapons and ammunition?" I guess we'll find out next summer. If we're the only family that shows up for the fest I guess you're right. On the other hand, if anyone else shows up to enjoy their day as they have in the past I'll have to assume they're all out of their minds. Might even need a gun or two to defend myself from all of those mentally unstable folks...
Michael Hoffman
As a parent and being aware of matters concerning health and mortality I would be more inclined to keep my kids out of the candy store then the sporting goods store.
Vanessa Conlin
Branford has a nice Bait& Tackle shop it's called Fishermens Paradise @ 197 So. Montowese st nice guys good service
Reply
Rockland Farm
Thanks Vanessa , Anybody think that perhaps that is the reason that TGS did not want to carry the same type of thing in their limited space . They probably won't carry the same type of things TrailBlazer carries either . It only makes good business sense to carry something different .
Page 8 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
LittleB
You all are the problem with our world listen to the hate and intolerance you people have you dont want hunters in your town LoL people you sound just like a bunch of bigots
Reply
Robert B.
LittleB, pay attention. No one has said they don't want hunters in town. If you enjoy hunting, fine. Good for you. What we DON'T want is a gun shop in the center of the town on the green. So, the only bigot I see here, is yourself.
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Steve R
Hey Robert PAY ATTENTION YOURSELF! In an earlier post Mary Fitzgerald states: "Yes, gun owners I don't want the center of town to be a destination for hunters." So, you are wrong AGAIN Robert! I hate to tell you folks but there are a lot of hunters around hear! They walk among you! Bwahahahaha!
ckb
not only hunters.. people who shoot sporting clays as well. All law abiding citizens, who are, judging by these comments, far more tolerant than you seem to be.
Michael Hoffman
There are also sheepdogs among you. Hopefully you will never know who they are until they are needed.
Mike Butler
Robert B, you are an idiot AND a bigot!
Robert B.
@ Rockland Farms: Not too bright, are you? It's indeed about the location. There are numerous other options these two gentlemen had to look at, why pick one that turns out to be excessively disagreeable on all sides? I'm not saying "you don't have a right to run a business". I'm saying "you should run it, as well as locate it, in a responsible location". These two men could have even bought the location of the old Pasta Fair since a restaurant never seems to last in that place. First it was Limelight, then Prime, then the Black Stallion. Now it's sitting abandoned again. It's nowhere near schools, nowhere near where large crowds gather, and it's a good distance away from the green. That seems like a viable location for a gun shop. Go up the road a bit further and there's a strip mall past Tremonte auto and a professional building that also sits primarily empty. That would be another viable location for a gun shop. If size matters, down in Short Beach, right next to the post office is a third location that used to be a bar which went under a few years back. Three locations, nowhere near the green, which would suit the needs of the owners of TGS.
Reply
Page 9 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
Rockland Farm
There you go with the name calling again .Saying I am not too bright shame on you ! I didn't know you were in on the planing stages of this business and had some inside info on what was and wasn't available to them . You evidently know that all those place would cost the same or less to rent or cost the same or less to provide the proper security . I trust Mike and Brian to know what suits their needs better than you .
Mike Butler
What the HELL does proximity to schools have to do with ANYTHING??????? Seriously!!! Do you actually believe (or FEEL) that kids are actually going to go in there???? Are you that clueless or brain-dead??? What the hell is your obsession with not being close to the green? Maybe we should make sure that there are no liquor stores (which are nowhere near as regulated) near the green.
Robert B.
As for it being excessively disagreeable on all sides, you have the pro second amendment people such as yourself who're saying "it's fine, the owners are responsible people that know what they're doing", then on the other hand you have people such as myself who say "the green is family friendly, and should stay family friendly. Move the gun shop somewhere else".
Reply
ckb
move it somewhere else? why because you are stamping your feet and having a temper tantrum. Seems to me these owners are going above and beyond and just because you don't like something does not give you the right to try and control others. How about you just learn to get along. No one is saying you have to shop there.
Rockland Farm
Easy there Robert . It is perfectly ok for LittleB to call you a Bigot if he believes you to be one . Just as it must be ok for you to call people nutcases and stupid . You are both well within your first amendment rights .
Reply
Robert B.
Rockland, it's not called "being in on the planning stages", it's called "knowing the town, and which locations have been sitting empty for a long time". Obviously, reading comprehension and long term memory are not your strong suits.
Reply
Rockland Farm
Ok so explain to me why you are better qualified to know the town than TGSs owners . So far I have met more people in favor of the store than those opposed to it . There are other reasons for opening a business in certain locations than the fact that a minority is opposed to it .Like I said before do have some sort of inside knowledge you can share with us about customer traffic,operating expenses or the retail sporting goods business that can enlighten about those other locations . Now I could comment on the things that obviously are not your strong suits . But I promised myself I would not stoop to your level . And that I would attempt to keep all disputes to facts and not those things imagined or just based on emotion .
LittleB
Page 10 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
No Robert B. I am comimg at it from a different mindframe then you and lol your one great twister back at you
Reply
LittleB
Listen to youself Robert B. The way you speak its not just two sides having a diference of oppoin you and others speak as if these people are vilens and evil. Your last piont was the best so far straight to it without emotion.
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Stuart Brainerd
RobertB. You are letting your fear and emotions dictate your responses. There is no reason to resort to name calling or bullying (both of which you have done). These two men have complied with every legal requirement and then some. You don't want passing kids to see guns "glorified", yet there will be none to see from the street. You had an issue with the word "gun" in their business name, they changed it. You and others have insinuated that the owners have changed their business model from guns to other things to avoid public outcry. Go back and read the original interview, the things they list in this article are there as well but for some reason once you read "gun store" the rest was irrelevant. Of all the mentally ill individuals you listed did any of them commit crimes anywhere near the store where the guns were purchased? You harp on "Location, location, location" but there is no evidence location has anything to do with the chance of the kind of atrocity you fear happening. If you are uncomfortable with a gun store then do not patronize this one. If the public doesn't want it to be there they will not prosper. I suspect you are afraid they will do very well and your fears will be unfounded. I would suggest you get a thunder buddy for those times when the unknown scares you, it's a good way of dealing with things you don't understand.
Reply
Rockland Farm
Stu it is nice to read reasonable common sense comments such as yours .Well done.
Kendra
Too bad "Rockland Farm" is hiding behind a name, policing everyone's comments and 'correcting' their thinking the way He/She seems fit.
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Rockland Farm
Kendra if in fact that is your name . I think that if you count you will see that the majority of posters don't use their full name or use some other type of identifier . Is Kendra your full name ? Or perhaps you are the only one in the world with the name Kendra and thus easily identified . I hope you don't live in a glass house with those stones your throwing . I voice my opinion and you say I am correcting their way of thinking . Perhaps you should then practice what you preach and not police my comments . Sorry but it is America and we both have the right to disagree and voice our opinions . Not just you . If I or others like me say things that point out your errors thats your problem . If facts and the truth hurts you then perhaps you need to rethink your position .
Karen True
Interesting, though, isn't it? That I was not embarrassed to hide behind a name, Rockland Farms. My name is Karen True and I am willing to
Page 11 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
admit that although I am not opposed to 'another' gun store opening in Branford, I believe the location should not be on Main Street.
Rockland Farm
Just out of curiosity I counted up the number of people posting up to this point and there have been 13 different folks . Of those folks 7 have been for the store with 5 against . With one poster that provided the location of a bait and tackle shop , I didn't count her on either side . Obviously not a landslide but it does poke holes in the claims by some that the majority are against it . Of course from this point on any similar tabulation would not matter as it could easily be swayed one way or the other by fake posting or posting by friends with no real conviction either way . But it should give those who think that if a vote was held on if the store would be allowed to open or not pause to think . And I honestly think the majority of people would not even bother to vote on this because the store opening is a non-issue to them .And it probably was a waste of my time counting because the store owners have fulfilled all legal obligations and will be opening soon . THANK GOODNESS because I can hardly wait . It sounds like it will be a awesome store that will only get better and better . I can't wait to take my wife and kids for something to eat downtown then maybe hit the candy store and others before spending some time in TGS Outdoors .
Reply
Pat
I think this is an outstanding idea and as a certified NRA instructor I will back you up with whatever you need. One of the complaints is that kids will be walking by the store? Last time I checked, Walmart in many locations sell rifles too and I think children probably walk right passed them there also. Don't listen to these idiots. They are under the assumption that guns will get up and walk out of your store and force themselves into children's hands. Side note: during the next Branford Fest i really hope they shut down Ashley's ice cream because those spoons in there force ice cream right into your mouth, adding to the obesity epidemic in this town.
Reply
Rockland Farm
Karen True I am not sure I see your point . I don't see you chastising the folks who agree with your position for not using their full names just me . I am not hiding behind anything and would never have thought to accuse those with a differing opinion than mine of hiding behind a user name . Actually I think using your full name is somewhat foolish on a format such as this . As a obvious gun owner it is wrong for the same reason as it was irresponsible for that NY news paper to publish all the names of those people that have pistol permits . If you had included everyone who had posted here that used a user name instead of their real name of hiding behind it then your statement would have some validity . But it just comes across like you are grasping at straws because of a lack of any substance to back up your side of the debate . You like others on your side can't seem to make any point that is not easily disputed . Because you only use unfounded fears and emotion not facts and common sense . If by using your full name it gives you some sort of feeling of superiority well good luck with that . I happen to think that debate based on facts and truths is the mature way to work out our differences . Unfortunately you and others on your side seem to resort to insults and name calling . Too bad .
Reply
Karen True
Please do not accuse me of name-calling when I am doing nothing of the sort. I was answering as I was because you were questionning 'Kendra' as to whether or not that was her real name. And, further, there is no lack of substance to my position. I claim nothing other than my opinion that it is inappropriate to have a Gun Store in the center of town. Simple - nothing more!
Rockland Farm
So questioning the owners intelligence and his fitness as a parent ( now deleted ) is ok and not insulting . Or the false claim that guns will be visible from the front window is ok even though it has no substance . And accusing me of hiding behind a user name and it is some how wrong is not insulting . I said you and others resort to insults and name calling .I guess in the strictest sense you did not call names but as one of the first posters on the original story you definitely got the ball rolling with the insults . As far as questioning Kendra I thought it was pretty obvious I was making a point . She wasn't using her full name so I guess she is hiding also . And I could call myself Barak Obama or Karen True II but that doesn't mean thats who I am . I still wonder why you don't question those that share your opinion and have user names as to why they are hiding . It is there for all
10/1/13 11:37 AM
to see when you insult or say something that is false ( unless deleted ) . It is that simple !
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Barbara
I just moved here from Texas and I was trying to get away from this type of thing. I'm shocked! Why would the town want this on the green? I would be disgusted even seeing it. Fishing would be fine, but hunting, guns, scopes, etc... NO WAY!
Reply
Rockland Farm
5:26 am on Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Wow Barbara sorry you moved all the way from Texas to get away from a certain type of retail establishment . Especially one that you probably won't shop in .But to tell you the truth I can't think of anywhere in the United States that doesn't have them . If I was you I would be disgusted with who ever told you we don't have stores of certain types on our Main St.s In Connecticut . Plenty of people in Town and in surrounding communities seem to be looking forward to the store opening .
Denise
4:36 am on Thursday, January 10, 2013
Less than 40 miles from Newtown and less than month since Sandy Hook and Branford CT is opening a gun shop in the heart of its town and community?? In an area deemed to genteel for something distasteful as McDonalds?? Less than a half mile from two elementary schools and a high school?? How? Why? I outraged, disgusted and saddened.
Reply
Mike Butler
That's really stupid! You don't know the difference between "to" and "too"??? And why is there no verb in "I outraged, disgusted and saddened"??? By the way, what in the HELL does proximity to schools or any other facilities have ANYTHING to do with it??? If it were right next door to five schools what difference would that make? What, does Newtown mean nobody can ever buy guns again ever?? This is a LEGAL product, which kids CANNOT buy (nor anyone else if they don't pass a background check). Get over it and grow up! REALLY!
Denise
Higgins is a Madison resident? Let him open up his gun shop next to RJ Julia... See how well that goes over You can change the name, hide the merchandise behind a screen, and throw a fishing pole in the window... It's still a gun store
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Rockland Farm
Actually the article states Mike grew up in Madison . And funny you mention RJ Julia . I remember when Arts Sporting Goods was in that building . Art sold guns and fishing tackle and was successfully there for years before moving to a larger location . The store sadly closed after Arts passing . Many good memories of spending time in the store with my Dad and Art talking about hunting , fishing and Arts time at Winchester .
Rockland Farm
I took a couple seconds and did a quick search and found a great many firearm retailers alot closer to Newtown in surrounding towns than Branford is . By all means take a look for yourself it is a easy search . And to all those that say a gun store does not belong in a certain area I will repeat what
10/1/13 11:37 AM
another poster talked about which was to please provide the data that shows that having a store of that kind in any way shape or form increases crime in its given area . I am sure you will find your fears unfounded . I agree the timing is a hard thing for some to come to grips with . But the owners started this process long before Newtown and with stock already in the store and more to arrive shortly they can't sit idle . They have to provide for their families like anyone else . As to the HOW I think the above article explains the process quite well . The WHY is pretty straight forward . Many local hunters ,target shooters , outdoorsmen/women want to spend their money in a locally owned business instead of impersonal big box stores and are looking forward to it opening .The thing that saddens me most about your post is the comment about the area being to genteel for McDonalds . This leaves me with a feeling that some have a feeling of superiority . In other words, the haves don't want the have nots shopping in their area .Not all of us dine in fancy restaurants some of us eat in Mcdonalds once in a while . That attitude might point to a deeper problem some might have locally.
Reply
ckb
I recently have taken up the sport of trap shooting, and love that I will have a local outlet to purchase my supplies. I must agree with Rockland that the arrogance coming from the opposing side is becoming obnoxious. Personally, I'm getting a bit weary of hearing what I need, what I don't need, why I shouldn't participate in a sport, all because of misinformation continually fed to those who've not taken any time to fully inform themselves on guns, hunting, sport shooting, permits, etc.Darn right I'm standing up for my 2nd amendment rights, just like I'll stand up for your 1st amendment rights to spew the progressive talking points.
Reply
Denise
Rockland. Thanks for your comprehensive response. Her you fail to address what I see as most disconcerting. The proximity of gun sales to so many of our town schools. Also my comment about McDonalds was an attempt at sarcasm not meant to divide the haves and have nots. Division is the seemingly the ploy of the NRA (as well as fear and distrust of the "other side". I am not looking to take your guns away. Have an arsenal if you wish and feel the need. But please, just as I think many would be opposed to a sex shop next to Ashley's or strip club next to Ben and Jerry, I find selling guns on our bucolic little green is distasteful Change the name, put up a screen, throw a fishing pole in the window...it's still a gun shop
Reply
Denise
I'm pretty certain the reason we do not have McDonalds on the green is a matter of zoning just as I believe there to be zoning laws about the sales of liquor in proximity to liquor. That is the "how" question I was asking.
Reply
Denise
Zoning laws regarding liquor sales in proximity to schools

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Robert B.
This is exactly the point I've been trying to make all along. You can't sell liquor anywhere within x amount of feet from a school, a playground, or a public area such as the green unless the shop we're speaking of functions primarily as a restaurant. The view on where a gun store should go should be no less different. TGS can go anywhere else in Branford, last time I knew there's an empty storefront next to Willoughby's coffee shop that would be more suitable to their needs, but not on the green.
Rockland Farm
Page 14 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
We can go back and forth on our feelings of appropriateness of any type of store . But the fact is TGS is not breaking any zoning rules or laws . And they are not breaking any town , state or federal rules or laws . I think that a underage person has far easier access to liquor than firearms . Nobody does a background check on someone buying alcohol . If you want to change laws or zoning rules and regulations you need to get involved in local town government and try to change the laws you disagree with . I also thought I did address the proximity issue in my statement about there being no data that supports the claim that gun stores have any negative impact on the area surrounding them whether it be schools or other businesses . You say divisiveness is a ploy of the NRA and I say it is the ploy of the liberal media and current state and federal governments . Perhaps it is both ,but the fact is people are divided on the topic . Maybe it is just human nature , look at the posts here and on the first article .We can't even agree about what we are in fact arguing about .Some claim it is just about location and spout anti gun rhetoric . Then others like my self come to the defense of gun ownership and the store but are accused of straying off topic . We can't even agree about what to argue about . I happen to think you can't debate the merits of a gun store without discussing gun ownership and guns in general . We are all entitled to our opinions . cont...
Rockland Farm
cont.. I happen to think a gun shop on the green would do nothing negative to the bucolic feeling of the green area.And a well run local business is a plus . My next statement is not directed at Denise personally I don't know her . But what we need to start doing as parents is teaching are kids right and wrong . We need to educate our kids that guns are not toys .We need to educate them about alcohol and that just because it is available in package stores ,grocery stores and handi-stop stores and right next to the ice cream and candy that there are consequences to its misuse . And just because there are strip clubs and sex shops that there are obviously consequences to unprotected sex and women are not objects . And if you spend to much time and money in the liqueur ,candy or ice cream shop there can be health problems later in life .What it comes down to is that we need to stop blaming others or other objects for our problems .We need to take responsibility and teach our kids to be responsible .
Denise
Exactly. Not a question of "us" versus "them" nor of "haves" versus "have nots". Not even a question of gun ownership. All about zoning.
Reply
Rockland Farm
Sorry Denise I am a slow typist .I addressed that above .
Rockland Farm
And I also wish to add,hold those who do something wrong responsible for their actions .
Stu Brainerd
I personally think the "location" argument is misplaced. Consider this, would you rather have this business in a well lit and busy area in plain view or tucked away out of sight? Do you not think that having it located more remotely actually increases the risk of someone intent on breaking the law trying something? Maybe someplace right next to an exit/entrance ramp for a quick getaway? If it were to move I would be happier if it moved closer to the police station.
Denise
So our state/town has no restriction on gun sales in proximity to schools? Startling
Page 15 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
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Denise
Of course. As I said. Have your guns if you wish. Be responsible. But please do not sell them on our town green.
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Rockland Farm
The way I see it Denise is the green belongs to everyone including those that welcome a gun store . I don't personally drink a drop of alcohol but would not deny you your right to some wine with dinner in a restaurant on the green as long as you were responsible before getting behind the wheel .And the statistics show someone is far more likely to come out of one of the establishments on the green that serves alcohol,inebriated and drive drunk with a high probability of killing or injuring themselves or others .Than someone is to go into a gun shop purchase a firearm and walk outside and commit a crime . In other words there are gun owners and there are drunks .I know more responsible gun owners than responsible drunks .
Denise
I am not in fear of guns nor do I have an over the top paranoia of criminals. It us the issue of selling them in such a "family setting" as the green. It baffles the mind that a state that until a few months ago prohibited liquor sales on Sunday would allow the sale of guns in such close proximity to schools.
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Stu Brainerd
Alcohol was banned from being sold in proximity to schools to address a specific problem. The buying and drinking of alcohol on school grounds by students. If I recall it was enacted when the legal purchase age was 18 and it wasn't unusual to have 18 tear old seniors in HS buying for their friends.
Rockland Farm
How do we convince each other as to what is a" family setting " . I grew up in a household with guns we were and are a hunting family . A gun as a Christmas present was not uncommon . So I don't look at a gun shop the same way you do . A gun shop does not detract from my idea of a family setting ,quite the opposite . I do agree with you on liquor sales because the irresponsible use of alcohol kills far more people than the irresponsible use of firearms .
allen petri
10:59 pm on Friday, March 15, 2013
I feel instead of a sporting goods store there should be housing for recovering sex offenders in that location!
ckb
So following the theory, how about we ban junk food within "the school zone" too. There goes Dunkin Donuts, the candy store, the Ashleys and Ben and Jerrys to name a few...and let's take out the bars as well because the kids may wander in there and be mistaken for an adult. Parents need to take responsibility for their children and teach them right from wrong. If a parent is going to let their child wander into a gun store, well then I'm going to question that parent's ability to care for their child. The NIMBY argument is getting old fast. As the progressives like to say...can't we all just
10/1/13 11:37 AM
get along???
Reply
bball fan
As has been stated in other posts, but I will reiterate, Wal Mart sells guns. And It is right next to the toy section. Everyone seems so concerned about the proximity to the green and schools. I can almost guaranty that there are homes even closer to the school that have guns in them. How do we know anyone in one of those homes can just go crazy? At least the people walking out the store will have gone through a recent background check. Until every gun is completely illegal, and only criminals have them, businesses have a right to sell them and it is up the public to decide if they will support the business. I have a feeling this business is going to do just fine.
Reply
LittleB
What none of you get is they went to zoning and the police and the ATF if it was an issue they would not have bin aproved and if you looked at the article these men had this all done before newtown ever hapoend
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Denise
I read the article and never assumed that they circumvented the rules in any way. That apparently our town has no such zoning restrictions is appalling
Reply
Rockland Farm
Denise I think you will find that Branford is probably in step with most towns in Ct. as far as zoning.Like I stated in a previous post if you don't like a town regulation perhaps you need to get involved in local politics and try to change things . I don't think there is anything " appalling " about the towns rules and regs. And using words like appalling and shocking to describe a rule you don't like is laying it on a little thick . But I am outraged , disgusted and saddened at your appalling lack of understanding that some people see the green in a different way than you . Oh yeah I am shocked as well . Get my point?
LittleB
What none of you get is they went to zoning and the police and the ATF if it was an issue they would not have bin aproved and if you looked at the article these men had this all done before newtown ever happend so you may not like it but its done and move on if I bothers you so much
Reply
LittleB
Then fix the the zonning laws

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LittleB
Heres my thing what are we doing to fix the mental health issue its not just guns people
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Page 17 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
Stuart Brainerd
Hyperbole is unnecessary and inflammatory.

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Rockland Farm
Keep that up Stu and nobody will want to be your thunder buddy !
Stuart Brainerd
Shaddup hick! ;)
Rockland Farm
Yessum I rekon I will Ise gots to get upp earely and milk tha goats .An al themm big wardz mak my hed hurt
Reply
Jane Doe
If location to school is an issue. Then why are none of you protesting the gun store on the hill. They are next to a preschool and the middle after school program. If you are going to oppose something get your facts right. Also, the reason Branford doesn't have restrictions on guns store is because there was a gun store on the green in the 70's and 80's and I surely don't see any of the people who grew up here and have posted comment going out and shooting people. So, how if you grew up in this town with a sporting(gun) store and it didn't influence you, please tell me how will it influence your children. Unless, of course you as a parent create that influence. Start being parents and teach the children how to make reasonable decisions than making them for them.
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LittleB
Jane doe you rock great point thank you

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LittleB
You all should watch it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8D8b51EwrI

Reply
donald n. mei
Why do otherwise rational people become completely irrational when the subject is firearms? The other evening at the meeting Frank Carrano called to discuss the subject of firearms/firearms legislation there was one individual who became positively unhinged when the subject of this store came up. If you dared disagree with him, he covered his ears so he couldnt hear your comment! So much for rational discussion and common sense.
Reply
Page 18 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
Stu Brainerd
I cannot help but be amazed by the hypocrisy of some people regarding this subject. Instead of having an open civilized discussion there is shouting and bullying. Ridiculous proposals by elected officials that do nothing but further alienate law abiding citizens. Enforce the laws we already have, stop intimidating those who are law abiding and prosecute those who aren't.
maureen o'connor
7:19 pm on Saturday, January 26, 2013
As a Branford resident and not too fond of guns, I wish they were located somewhere else. Not in the center ot town. If there is no canoing/ fishing gear, kyacks etc it is simply a gun shop
Reply
Robert B.
Maureen, well said. If it catered to all types of outdoorsmen instead of a narrow focus on hunters and target shooters, it'd be a different story. However, they chose to carry a narrow stock and to cater to one specific group, so yes. It should go elsewhere. To people saying those against it going into the old Arabella's location, I ask you. Would you want a porn shop going in anywhere within the center of Branford? Probably not. So, who're the hypocrites then?
Rockland Farm
Everyone is entitled to their opinion .There are very many people who welcome it to the center of town . I for one am looking forward to it opening.
Reply
ckb
6:43 am on Sunday, January 27, 2013
Robert..they followed the zoning laws, and it is allowed by the town. To "label" people using a lame example is a typical ploy of the liberals. Sorry you don't agree with this business, much like I wouldn't agree with a porn shop, however, unlike you, I would realize that they followed the procedure and I would simply decide not to patronize them. That's not hypocrisy, that's the difference -conservatives see something they don't like/agree with, but is legal, they just ignore it. Liberals feel the need to control everything to come to their point of view and they whine until they get what they want.
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Anne
8:23 am on Tuesday, March 12, 2013
AR Conservative sounds like a very angry person - he sounds very dangerous and should not own a gun
Reply
Stu Brainerd
So much for freedom of speech... While I don't agree with his delivery there are many who share his frustration.
Reply
susan Barnes
Page 19 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
And we are worried about a gun shop on Main Street when we have the likes of a gun owning AR CONSERVATIVE apparently walking the streets of Branford. It's the owners not the guns we need to worry about.
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ckb
Not so quick susan. Do you know AR personally? Do you know for a fact that he/she owns a gun? How do you know this person is not a troll who's actually anti second amendment? You don't have any facts to base your "fear" on. You are simply trying to shove your agenda and are pigeon holing a whole lot of decent people. It's quite intolerant and ignorant.
susan Barnes
Really, ckb. I don't know if he owns a gun. Do you know he does not? With his disgraceful outburst he is a worry if he walks the streets of Branford as he seems unable to control his emotions, unable to allow other views and unable to use suitable vocabulary on this site. I am tolerant of the business, the owners, and all they do, even though I, myself, dislike the work of guns whether they are killing people or animals ( have no issue with trap shooting), altho I respect a person's right to hunt. The shop owners went thru the process and were approved. I am tolerant of their right to run their business in peace. So you be tolerant for both of us, because I have no tolerance for ARC's abusive foul disgusting outburst. But then, of course, it is I who is ignorant.
Reply
Rockland Farm
7:05 am on Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Susan you stated you dislike the work of guns whether they are killing people or animals ( I assume you are a vegetarian ) . How do you feel about firearms when they are used to save the life of someone in a self defense situation ?
Anonymous
I think he has out burst like that because of ignorant people like you..They did everything right leave them alone there is no need for this ridiculous uproar over it...you wanna help the town go pick up some trash an keep your opinions to yourself..
Reply
susan Barnes
You best work on your reading comprehension skills, Anonymous 11:22. Try rereading VERY slowly. " I am tolerant of the business, the owners, and all they do, even though I, myself, dislike the work of guns whether they are killing people or animals ( have no issue with trap shooting), altho I respect a person's right to hunt. The shop owners went thru the process and were approved. I am tolerant of their right to run their business in peace. "
Reply
ckb
Typical liberal..why the need to be condescending and dismissive? Of course you ignored the point that you are trying to make it seem all gun owners are not to be trusted. That, my dear, is very intolerant. As for AR, the language is not what I would use or expect those I associate to use, however he/she is expressing his/her first amendment rights, just like you. Those of us who support the Second amendment are standing up so people like you are free to express themselves. Please don't forget that many died to give us those rights.
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Page 20 of 22
10/1/13 11:37 AM
susan Barnes
12:05 pm on Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Liberal? Condescending and dismissive? Tolerance? Ignorant? "... all gun owners are not to be trusted"? To whom are you speaking?
Reply
AR Conservative
Wow what did I do? People need to relax, omg. We are all entitled to our opinions. And why I may dislike liberals and their nonsense bs and the fact that they can't understand facts presented in an argument, they base their opinions strictly on emotion. Ok I got a little irritated and used some foul language and screamed a bit. Deal with it. There are plenty of other gun owners and pro second amendment right citizens in Branford who share my feelings and opinion, they just don't have the balls to say it like it is like i do. Who are any of you to judge me when you have never met me in person and for all you know perhaps I could help you in a crisis or emergency and be real nice?? I'm just extremely frustrated that people can't understand that we are Americans. If you don't like the store, then just walk by it with your little beat kids and don't go inside, problem solved.
Reply
AR Conservative
Oh pardon me. "BRAT" kids

Reply
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Page 22 of 22

TGS Outdoors - Sporting Goods Shop Comes To The Green - Branford, CT Patch

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TGS Outdoors - Sporting Goods Shop Comes To The Green - Branford, CT Patch

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Seems like a solid business. I'll be stopping in when they open.

Me too , And many many others .

I'm sure "the intelligent people of Branford" already own guns.

Deborah Holston Selden

A gun shop is a gun shop......not needed anywhere!

11:13 am on Friday, March 15, 2013

Robert B, you are an idiot AND a bigot!

Zoning laws regarding liquor sales in proximity to schools

Sorry Denise I am a slow typist .I addressed that above .

So our state/town has no restriction on gun sales in proximity to schools? Startling

Then fix the the zonning laws

Hyperbole is unnecessary and inflammatory.

Jane doe you rock great point thank you

You all should watch it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I8D8b51EwrI

Oh pardon me. "BRAT" kids

New Rule in New Jersey

New Diet Pill Sales Soar

RoboForm Password Manager

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