The 4th Annual Women On Target clinic (held May 13) was another rousing success.  Thanks to the participation of numerous members, participants were able to enjoy a full day of training in personal safety, archery and recreational shooting at very low cost.  When the event concluded, the participants gave all of the volunteers a standing ovation!
     Many of the ladies shook my hand and hugged me on their way out, and we’ve seen more than a few of them at our subsequent classes and events.  Although it has been more than two months since the event, we continue to receive calls and emails from folks in te community asking when our next WOT clinic will be held and if there are other training opportunities available, and several participants have pursued membership.
     This was the first year that our own Rick Kohne and his fabulous crew of chefs catered the event with a delicious cookout--which received rave reviews from participants and volunteers alike.  (Some folks are still asking for that potato salad recipe, Rick).  The food was hot, plentiful, and tasty.  
     Tom Ciarula ordered and prepared ammunition and organized the volunteer instructors on the rifle/pistol range.  He delivered our general Range Safety Briefing as well.  Before the clinic, several women told me that they own pistols, but didn’t know how to use them; after the clinic, they felt that they had enough skill to schedule range time at a local indoor shooting range where they can continue to practice their new hobby.  One told me that a male friend had purchased a pistol for     her  and loaded it, and it had been sitting in a drawer untouched for many years because she did not know how to use it.  Thanks to our WOT clinic, she is now taking classes with us on a regular basis and continues to improve her skills.
     Dave Myers organized the shotgun range and received high praise from the participants, one of whom said, “shotgun is the best stress reliever I have ever tried”.  Several ladies admitted being concerned about trying shotgun, but said that the friendly support of volunteers helped them overcome all of their fears.  Since the class, one lady has purchased her own shotgun and continues to enjoy shooting trap.
      Jim Hawkins organized the Bull Run Muzzleloaders who nearly stole the day with their 4-bore rifle and their colorful historical characterizations.  Our clinics wouldn’t be nearly as much fun without their savoir-faire and good- natured humor.  One participant has expressed interest in historical reenacting and in joining the Bull Run Muzzleloaders as a result of this clinic.
     Mike Bosley prepared a terrific introduction to archery course, and as a result of the clinic, our youngest participant has decided that she would like to become an archer.  Archery is a huge drawing card for many women who are reluctant to try firearms.  They will often sign up for archery and reluctantly try firearms only to discover that they thoroughly enjoy both sports.  We’re thrilled to be able to round out the schedule of activities with another type of shooting sport each year.
     In addition to archery and firearms, participants could elect a non-shooting class called Refuse To Be A Victim.  This is another NRA program that is designed to teach basic personal safety strategies that do not involve shooting.  Nineteen women took the RTBAV program.  Thanks to Certified Instructor Jim Blauch. They learned about the best types of locks to use on doors and windows;  how to prevent car hi-jackings; and ways to stop identity theft.  Each participant also received a student handbook filled with useful information that elaborates on the pointers given in the class.  Jim had no  assistant instructors,  so his efforts to ensure the successful outcome of this class are especially appreciated.
     Thanks to the Education & Training committee, women who participated in the 2006 WOT clinic can attend any of our firearms classes for the remainder of 2006 at the same cost as members.  This offer will encourage women to continue to learn about firearms and to practice using their new safety skills.  All of the participants have been offered a special price for the upcoming classes on August 19.  They may take a RTBAV class in the moring for $30 or a First Steps-Pistol class for $30. Or they may take both for only $45.
     Special thanks to the Virginia Shooting Sports Association (VSSA) for grant administration to help defray expenses and to Dave Atwell (BBSG Academy, Manassas, VA).  Our thanks also to Glock (Smyrna, GA), Montana Silversmiths (Columbus, MT), Blue Book Publications (Minneapolis, MN), Darke Graphics/Liberte  Clothing (Burke, VA) and Claudia Olsen (UniChic, Fairfax, VA) for tangible contributions of door prizes or discounts on purchases.
     This letter from Zelinda Zang was echoed by many participants without whom the event would not be possible.   “Please extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the great folks (including yourself) who made the WOT clinic happen.  It was very nice to be on the receiving end of a volunteer effort”.