Living in a small town has its advantages. So does living in a community and a State where the ownership and use of firearms is not frowned upon. Even when kids are the ones doing the shooting. This weekend marks the fourth annual Youth Day at the Range which is an event where kids get to attend a carnival like atmosphere and shoot guns. Some of these kids will get to shoot for the first time in their life.
The first year this event was held it was put together by Jerry Dove, who owns the local firearms emporium, and the local shooting club. It was an absolute success. It has continued to grow and last year the event picked up Marlin Firearms and Remington ammunition as sponsors. Many local organizations like Friends of Coal, Arcelor Mittal, Star 95 Radio and WVVA television along with the West Virginia State Police and the West Virginia DNR Law Enforcement Division are also involved. Additionally, many local shooters volunteer their time to make this event a reality.
In this current time of anti-firearms rhetoric it is a wondrous thing to see kids, moms and dads; families, together and enjoying shooting. I would encourage each of you to work to put together an event like this where you live. This Saturday between 300 and 500 youngsters will be shooting and having fun in the hills of West Virginia. If you are within 100 miles of Princeton, WV I suggest you stop by. These kids are the future of firearms in America and I’m proud that my community and I will be a part of their early, positive and safe introduction to guns.
