imported post
Okay, I think this may be the final draft. What do you all think?
Paul,
Thank you for your response. I understand that some people are not comfortable with open carry since it is not something one sees every day. That is part of the reason I open carry – to educate and desensitize the public to seeing a lawfully carried firearm.
As for your decision to ban firearms, please consider the attached list of businesses that allow all legal forms of firearm carry. These businesses, both big and small, recognize that a significant percentage of their customer base is pro-gun and do not want to lose them. They have not experienced any negative impact due to allowing firearms in their businesses. In fact, the upside is increased sales.
If Gallagher’s as a whole (not just the bar side) does not make the majority of its income through alcohol sales, it is legal for a licensed person to conceal in the establishment (MCL 28.425o(1)(d)). Does Gallagher’s make the majority of its income through alcohol sales? To be safe, I chose to open carry in what I thought may have been a bar, whereas others might see Gallagher’s as a restaurant and have no problem concealing a legally carried firearm.
That being said, it is likely that you've had hundreds of customers carrying without you or any employees even knowing about it. Also, it has been my experience that the average person does not even notice a person carrying openly, and if they do, as long as that person is acting responsibly, it has been my experience that the person will continue what they were doing with no negative reaction.
If you feel uncomfortable with a certain person, you could deal with them on a case-by-case basis instead of banning all firearms in your establishment. Banning all law-abiding Concealed Pistol License holders is just plain bad for business.
One thing I must mention, as it is only fair of me to do so, is that any establishment known to have a “No Firearms” rule is put on a “Do Not Patronize” list on multiple websites and is viewed by thousands of pro-gun citizens in Michigan.
I would be happy to meet with you in person to discuss this issue further. You have much to gain but little to lose by allowing the lawful carry of firearms at Gallagher’s.
I sincerely hope that you will reconsider your decision.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[EM87]