This was a "Boston Tea Party"-themed birthday party as requested by my 12 year old granddaughter, Kristen. She had recently attended her first Appleseed in Ellijay earlier this month and requested that I do one for her birthday…how cool is that??
Grandfather was obliged to fulfill her wishes. The owners at Appalachian Gun Range in Jasper were very accommodating. Hannah remained after the normal 6pm closing time for us to use the classroom for the party and allowed us to use the range (grandfather paid for all) to do some prone-only shooting at squares and the Hits Count targets.
We started in the classroom with comments about what Project Appleseed is and is not, some comments about the current state of the nation and Liberty, reminded them that guns don't kill people, evil people do. We mentioned that Kennesaw, GA Ordinace 34-21 requires the head of every household in the city limits to possess a firearm and a supply of ammo "to protect the safety, security and general welfare of the city and its inhabitants".
I then introduced "Captain John Parker" (Roswell in uniform)who traveled forward in time from April 19, 1775 because he heard of Kristen's special birthday party. He spoke about that day briefly, about the Boston Tea Party and why his countrymen dressed as Indians. Next, he told the story of Nancy Hart. Then he demonstrated how the (replica) musket must be loaded and fired. After this demonstration, CokeGuy explained the parts and operation of a Ruger 10-22, followed by the Safety Rules, Safe Rifle and Ammo difficulties. Ross then covered the Six Steps. All this was to an audience of 11 persons (3 children, parents and other adults). With instructors, the children and parents went to the range to learn some marksmanship. After an explanation of line commands, we began some sighters….because of two brand new shooters, it was slow-going. Then, back to the classroom for the "party"…food, Boston Tea Party tea and more history. CokeGuy shared the extended story of Elizabeth Zane. Then, back to the range to shoot the Hits Count targets. Due to the limited experience of the shooters, no formal half day timed shoot was attempted. But, based on the comments, a good time was had by all. One of the parents, it turns out, had been an Army sniper….he was well-pleased with the progress by his 12-year old son who had never even held a firearm!
One invited child canceled to to a positive COVID test. Another's parents would not give permission.
Bottom line: Another idea to explore to expand Appleseed. Also, a very happy granddaughter who is eager now to get to her second full Appleseed event and would like her own rifle. Huzzah! Total time for the event: 6pm-9:30pm.
Photos to follow.
WOW! That sounds so groovy!
Thank you!
This sounds like an awesome event and a very cool idea!