Jason Arndt, jarndt@shawanoleader.com
Leader Photo by Jason Arndt Participants of a concealed-carry class held Saturday at Shawano’s City Hall receive answers to questions from Shawano Police Chief Mark Kohl.
Nearly 30 people attended the city's first concealed-carry class Saturday at Shawano City Hall.
The four-hour class about the state concealed-carry law, which took effect in 2011, was taught by Police Chief Mark Kohl.
“I am very gratified that we can do it in a safe way and to help them learn and educate them," Kohl said. "A lot of them came with a lot of anxiety.”
The city will offer another class in December.
Roger Genke, 51, of Shawano, said he was uncertain about the concealed carry law before the class and unsure whether he would apply for a license.
“I found the information interesting and I probably will based on what I learned,” Genke said.
Genke said the class made it clear that concealed-carry permits do not allow people to bring their firearms into government buildings, mental health complexes and school property.
Additionally, Kohl noted, people are prohibited from carrying a weapon while consuming alcohol in a tavern. Anyone under the influence of alcohol while carrying a firearm is subject to a $10,000 fine, nine months jail or both.
Private business owners also have the right to the ban weapons in their establishments.
“I think the areas where you cannot carry a concealed weapon is a very good idea,” Genke said.
Hal Atkinson and his wife, Debb, came from Appleton to take the course.
“I have always been interested in the ability to carry, but not necessarily the need for it at all times,” Hal Atkinson said.
He said he was surprised by some of the restrictions.
“A little bit. There are actually quite a few restrictions as far as where you could carry. … Perhaps more than I think it should," he said. "I understand that is their right. So be it.”
Class participants took a written exam and had to score 80 percent or higher to qualify for a concealed-carry permit.
“We want them to be well-informed and well-educated and comfortable. … So when they leave here, it is going to be a win-win,” Kohl said.
Following successful completion of the course, people may apply for a concealed-carry permit through the Wisconsin Department of Justice.
AT A GLANCE
WHAT: Concealed-carry class
WHEN: 8 a.m. to noon, Dec. 6.
WHERE: City Hall, 127 S. Sawyer St., Shawano.
FYI: Class fee is $10. Following successful completion of the course, people may apply for a concealed-carry permit through the Wisconsin Department of Justice for $40.