Family Nixes Plan For Md. Gun Range At Sugerloaf

FREDERICK, Md. (AP) -- A Frederick County family is withdrawing its controversial proposal to build a gun range near Sugerloaf Mountain in western Maryland.

The proposed gun range drew opposition from residents who live and work nearby. Sugerloaf Alliance, a group that advocates for the popular hiking and recreation area, also opposed the plan.

At a hearing Tuesday evening before Frederick County's zoning board, the Valois family said it was withdrawing its application for the facility. The family was doing business as Old Line Arsenal LLC.

Family representative Andrew Valois said choosing the location was not a good idea. The crowd at the hearing broke into applause. Valois says the family doesn't plan to relocate the firing range project.

Alison Valois says the family was subjected to character attacks and violence from opponents.