As I write this, the Illinois State Shoot should have just finished and I would have great stories about the event. Sadly we are still wrestling with trying to have the shoot. Public health concerns, insurance issues and common sense are making this decision really tough. When you read this we will have made the decision. Just know the Board of Directors made the best decision we possibly could.
Shooting is finally picking up and Illinois shooters are doing well. At the Nebraska State Shoot: Ian Lawrence won six trophies, Chase Horton won four, Mike Dennis won three and Hannah Martin also cracked the trophy list. At the Tennessee State Shoot: Charlie Bickle and Harvey Schultz won 3 trophies, Joan Davis and Kyle Fabisiak both won two and Donald Kalsch, Tom Hoffman, Chloe Turasky, Jeremiah Schultz, Adam Fabisiak and Mike Gill all won a trophy. Chloe almost won the open Out of State Singles Championship. Good shooting one and all.
I recently learned a shooter from Florida, who grew up in Illinois, was killed in a tragic car accident. My condolences go out to the family and friends of Brant Williams. Rest in peace, Brant. I'll see you on the other side some day.
I have been advised that Anthony Fortino is closing in on 120,000 combined targets. Anthony is a great shot who won both the Singles and Doubles Championship at the Grand in 2013. Life has gotten in the way lately and he has not shot as much as he had in the past. Good job, Anthony. I hope you will be able to return to your previous form in the future.
Finally, the Illinois Board of Directors is working on a new idea to raise money for the Hall of Fame. Stay turned for future developments.
Stay safe and shoot well!
Bill Duncan, ATA Delegate