Shoot Boss Boot Camp and Liberty seminar, Toccoa Georgia Aug. 16-17

[DrJohn]

Some time ago one of the Georgia instructors suggested that it might be a good idea to have a Shoot Boss Boot Camp. It was one of those ideas that seemed so obvious that it made one ask why it had not been suggested before. There seemed to be a sufficient amount of interest, so a venue was secured, invitations sent out, and plans made. Georgia Mountain Shooting Assoc. graciously offered to host the event at their excellent clubhouse at Toccoa, Georgia, complete with kitchen, indoor bathrooms, and of course, air conditioning, which made it feasible to hold the event during the hot Georgia summer.

The purpose of the event was to de-mystify the role of Shoot Boss, to explain how certain things are done, to encourage those who might be considering the path of Shoot Boss, and to make us all more effective instructors. The event was opened to any and all instructors of any rank, and the invitation was extended to those throughout the region. The POI mostly utilized the latest Shoot Boss Manual, but more was covered than in the manual. For example, a detailed explanation of how to approach a possible host range, the crucial information that the host rep needed to furnish to complete the Host Application Form, how the Host Form is turned into an Event Information Page, and so on. Since the Georgia instructors are far better in any number of areas than this instructor, we had certain topics presented by those who had demonstrated superior competence in these areas. For example, Roswell gave an excellent presentation, together with handouts, how to post pictures in the After Action Reports. Guardian, who has a strong background in accounting, likewise gave an excellent presentation on how to properly complete the RWVA Instructor and Shoot Boss Reimbursement Form, using any number of hypothetical cases. And one of the highlights was Guardian's presentation of Appleseed as a business, using data furnished by the national organization but specific to Georgia. Needless to say, there was a strong emphasis on how to conserve scarce Appleseed resources, and why certain things are done the way they are. It was a revelation to all present, including this instructor. And Morpheus gave an impassioned presentation on how to make the Saturday benediction have the greatest impact, a topic for which he is justly well known. The Shoot Boss Boot Camp portion of the weekend ended late Saturday afternoon.

Sunday the group re-assembled to consider the topic of Liberty, a topic that Appleseed mentions often, but which has not been deeply explored at the instructor level except perhaps informally during Appleseed instructor gatherings before and after events. What exactly is Liberty, particularly in the words of the Founding Generation? Has the country strayed, and if so, how and why? Why is Liberty so often misunderstood and mis-represented by those of today (I do not include Appleseeders among this group). What are some effective strategies to make the concept of Liberty more acceptable nowadays? And lastly, what is to be done? This last topic of course was of prime interest to all, and generated a good deal of discussion. As a matter of fact, the Liberty seminar was conducted more or less completely as presentation of discussion points and matters for consideration, with the floor then opened for general discussion. Of which there was a great deal, but respectful, thoughtful, and provocative. The event broke up Sunday mid-afternoon, but with fond memories of friendships renewed and pleasant time spent together. My sincerest thanks to all who attended this first ever Appleseed Shoot Boss Boot Camp-Liberty seminar. You all made this event a very special occasion. It has been my honor and great pleasure to be able to work with all of you and to know all of you not only as colleagues, but as family. God bless you all.

[Guardian]

It was a great weekend spent with fellow Patriots! Many thanks for DrJohn for putting this together and laying out a clear road to SB.

The Liberty Seminar was excellent and the exchange of ideas helped cement some of my own notions.

[fisherdawg]

Those of us in other corners of the country, especially me, would appreciate any & all information on Morpheus's Benediction as well as other portions of the POI.  But, especially on his Benediction
Thanks!
fisherdawg

[PHenry]

nicely done sir. 

[dreamerofdreams]

Sorry we had to miss it!