Centerville / Lovilia, Iowa June 14-15, 2015

[Yankeedutch]

Well despite the rains trying to stop this shoot, it happened anyway... and it was a success.
On Wednesday it became apparent that the 1/2 mile driveway to the range at Centerville was impassable due to 7 inches of rain in 5 days.  Just when it seemed that our weekend would be cancelled, the Lovilia range became available about a 1/2 hour away.
Ron, Scott and Rich spent 5 hours working on the range on Friday.  Phil called most everyone on the list as he was related to or knew most of them.  I contacted the rest.
We initially had 21 shooters signed up and six had to cancel due to the change.  Everyone else showed up!!
What a great group.
The range turned out to be a great place for Appleseed.  A shaded and soft firing line made for good shooting and instruction.
We had a number of previous Riflemen and women who are considering taking Orange hats.  We had a new Rifleman in Steve who shot the whole weekend with his AR.  Rich cleaned the Redcoat on Sunday and nearly made rifleman.  I'm sure that the next time he sees an AQT it will be impressive.  Wayne scored very well on stages 1 and 4, but had some issues with his bolt action on the rapid fire stages.  Get that ironed out and he will be way over 210.
Most impressive was Jessica who on Saturday might be lucky to hit the paper.  On Sunday she received one-on-one instruction much of the day and was just being with her great improvement.  She showed an amazing attitude and persistence.

The highlight of the weekend was young Mary Ann who never quit doing cartwheels on the way back from the firing line.  She made us all laugh when she called Bryce, usually known as "Festus" as a "Funny Old Man."  The two of them were having fun, singing, joking, and generally acting goofy all weekend.

To think this shoot, that was in the works for two year, almost didn't happen but turned into a great success is a testament to all of those involved.  See the pictures and let us know what your thoughts.
Dave

[Yankeedutch]

I should also mention that Bryce breezed through his IIT4 PC and will get to change out that crusty old orange hat soon!
Jerry is making great strides and told Strike 2 as a champ and completed IIT 2 PC.
Ron and Scott were really appreciated for their help, especially in securing and setting up the range.

Man, with a crew like that, it made my job a joy!

[Yankeedutch]

Some more picture:

[Yankeedutch]

The picture that is missing was one that almost happened.
I was most impressed with the young riflewomen.
A butterfly landed on Esther's support arm and just as I tried to capture the picture of the riflewoman's bubble the butterfly left.  It did not seem to matter if the wind blew sand in their faces, or the mats blew over them or brass landed on their backs, they kept shooting little groups.  They decided to try their hand with iron sights as they previously qualified with scopes.
Hopefully they will accept some funny orange hats soon!

[Reload]

 
An absolutely great weekend!  I feel honored to associate with such a fine group of patriots and marksmen.

A hearty Huzzah and 'well done' to all!

I look forward to seeing all of you down the Appleseed trail in the future.

Jerry