U.S. CONGRESSMAN BILL JOHNSON Proudly Representing Eastern and Southeastern Ohio

U.S. Rep. Bill Johnson, R-Ohio, visited an indoor shooting range Friday in Martins Ferry.

Before taking up a firearm to show off his shooting skills, Johnson met Come Shoot Indoors owners Jeanette Mertz and Michael Perry, firearms instructors John Holpp and Norman Doyle, along with other employees of the business.

CSI is located at 56731 Colerain Pike, Martins Ferry.

After going through the typical training CSI customers receive, Johnson got to keep the target he used for practice. He used a model 1911 pistol.

“I’m a very strong supporter of the Second Amendment,” Johnson said, referring to the right to bear arms. “Both my wife and I are concealed-carry (licensed), and most of our staff are concealed carry holders, too. We went to a class several years ago all together.”

Johnson said Ohio Sen. Frank Hoagland, R-Mingo Junction, conducted his firearm training.

Perry noted his indoor range has been open for six months and has graduated 50 people. One of Johnson’s aides, Ashley Karlen, director of constituent services, also received the training on Friday.

Johnson is running for re-election this November. Running against him this election is Belmont resident Shawna Roberts, a Democrat.