Hi everyone. I am writing this in late January and Illinois and the Midwest is socked in with serious winter. I am becoming more and more envious of the snowbirds down south. The thing that makes this tolerable is knowing that shooting is about ready to start again.
We have a few more pats on the back for achievements of Illinois shooters from the past shooting season. Ian Lawrence is the All-Around Award winner for the Junior Gold category. This to me is super impressive because it shows consistent excellence over time. Steven Margherio and Landon Sievers earned their AA-27-AA pins in the Junior category, and Ashleigh Painter earned hers in the Junior Gold category. I have watched all three of them develop through the years and I can tell you they are deadly shots and great people. I just wish I didn't have to try to beat them all the time. Lastly, Mike Dennis, Lawrence Gillum, Dave Dressler, Leland Hassler and Mike Walker are all Mega Target members for 2021. All of these gentlemen are fine, dedicated shooters who represent everything that is good about our sport. I am not surprised that they shot this much but I am amazed they were able to find 80 flats of shells this past season. I'm available if any of you would like to adopt me.
The Illinois Board of Directors is busy working on the Illinois State Shoot coming up in June. I'll have more information about this in next month's column. I am going to go clean my guns and dream of better days. Stay warm and healthy!
Bill Duncan, ATA Delegate