Graben River Farm, Elbert County June 8-9

[DrJohn]

The inaugural Appleseed event at Graben River Farm, Elbert County was special, indeed. We were blessed with a lovely venue, an abundance of fine instructors, and some of the best students anyone could ever ask for. Dan and Dustin, you were both excellent shooters before you even came, and we hope we were able to give you a couple more tools to add to your already abundant tool box. Caroline and Jessica, it was such a pleasure to have you. You need only a bit of tweaking in the Standing position to become really formidable competitors. Little Ally, it was an inspiration watching you with coach Ramblinwreck, putting holes in those silhouette targets. Dabney, I really admire your willingness to step outside your comfort zone and give the Appleseed experience an honest evaluation. Your smile Saturday evening was worth our whole effort. Greg, you have as much determination as anyone I've seen, and a great attitude to boot. Ava, you are not only a joy to have as a student, but you have so much to offer. Your help Sunday was much appreciated. John, I am so happy you were able to return this weekend, that you shot well, and that you decided to take an Orange Hat. Welcome aboard! Joseph, I loved your optimism and stalwart determination. Keep it up, my friend. Blake, Mark, and Ross, you brothers each shoot better than each other, and make a formidable team. What a pleasure to see you on our Line. Mark and Norman, what a privilege to have you as students two consecutive weekends. You will both be Riflemen soon, if you only persist. And how inspiring an example you set as a father and son team. Katie, your sweet nature belies an iron strength. And a great sense of humor to boot. Please join us again soon. Taylor, you traveled a great distance to spend the weekend with Appleseed, and your dedication and persistence are much appreciated. Robert, I am so glad you decided to join us rather than sit it out on the sidelines watching. You were most modest about your initial talent, and will make a fine Rifleman if you only decide to do so.

The weather cut short our Sunday Appleseed experience only a short time after lunch. Appleseeders shoot in all weather, except we cannot expose our students to the risk of lightning. It was most touching and appreciated that each and every one stayed to make sure everything was tidied up and made secure, before leaving. This was in spite of our encouragement to pack as quickly as possible and leave before anyone was injured. Bless all of you, and thank you.

Please remember the critical importance of dry firing to maintain and improve your marksmanship skills. Please remember the crucial importance of Liberty, to enable each and every person to experience life as our gracious Creator intended. And remember to cherish and pass on the traditions of the Founding Generation. Huzza, all!

[guitarzan]

I'd like to say thanks to all who helped me become a rifleman this weekend.  I have discovered that one of the greatest things about Appleseed is the people you meet.  You always make new friends.  Also, it was fantastic to see all the young people that were learning the skills to become a rifleman.  It gives me hope for this country.

I had a great time, learned a lot and reached two goals.  One to become a rifleman and the other to get an orange hat.  Thank you all for the fantastic instruction, advice and for the confidence that you all showed in me.  I could not have reached these goals with your help.  I know I'll be asking for more help, advice and assistance in the coming years. 

A couple of things about the weather.  This was my fourth Appleseed.  It rained on three of them.  At least it wasn't 34 degrees at this one.  I can take the heat better than the cold.  The last two weeks were torrential downpours and lightning.  I have been struck by lightening once and it is not any fun at all.  Closing things down early was the right thing to do.   

[SureShotSpartan]

It warms my soul to hear this great report!! Congratulations to all who attended! I'm certain that Liberty has increased, thanks in no small part to your contributions, both as Instructors and distinguished guests.

[Roswell]

Congratulations on some fine shooting Guitarzan! Your persistence payed off!  As a side note, you've been hit by lightening! Wow, you are one tough man my friend and were obviously destined for that patch and hat. 

We had some really great shooters this weekend and I'm confident a little dry-firing will push you that tiny bit needed to get Rifleman as you are all formidable marksmen in your own right.

As always, this weekend was fantastic. I love any and all time with my Appleseed family and that is just what you all are. I look forward to seeing you all on the trail again soon.

[Ramblin' Wreck]

There's not much I can add to the comments below.  I really enjoyed making new friends at the Elberton event and welcoming a new member to the very select group of Appleseed instructors. Huzzah Guitarzan!

Just a few pictures we took before we hurriedly packed up to avoid the lightning. Thanks to all who came out and please join us at our next event this fall in Elberton or any of the other area events in Georgia and South Carolina.



John "Guitarzan" M getting his Rifleman patch.


Guitarzan has an orange hat now. Welcome to the family!


A wonderful group of young Patriots came out to join us on Sunday. I have a feeling we'll see them again.

God bless you all.

Ramblinwreck

[goose]

We have had some memorable AppleSeed weekends, but having the inaugural Graben River Farm event combined with what can really be described as about as close to family in both students and instructors as one could imagine set this weekend apart from most others.  Dr. John summed up the outstanding students in his opening, and they were the full spectrum of age and experience to provide the instructors with a superb and entertaining weekend--exactly why we volunteer!  A unique event in every respect.  Graben River is a rural paradise, and it was great to get to share it with those interested in their Heritage and History!

Congratulations to Guitarzan for joining us and earning his Rifleman patch!

...and pics!