President’s Message

(August 2013)

There has been some talk by a few of the members regarding Champion targets vs. White Flyer targets. The reason that we switched to Champion can be summed up in one word “cost”. White Flyers cost about $2200 more per semi load (23 Pallets). The club cannot afford to absorb this cost without raising the rounds fee. This year we will be buying two loads which is a $4400 savings. As a result, we will continue to buy Champion targets. The Champion targets are much cleaner and do not leave dust on the machines,  like the White Flyers did, which helps with the functional operation of the machines.

I am well aware that we have been having some issues with the maintenance of the skeet and trap machines. To remedy this situation, a Beomat technical service representative will be on site September 7 & 8 to work on the all of the trap and skeet machines and to train selected members on how to maintain them.  Although this is a weekend, shooting will be allowed on the fields that are not being worked on.

The berms for the hand gun range continue to be built, as a lot more dirt is required.  At this time we still do not have a completion date but my guess is some time next spring. I will keep you all updated as things progress.  If you have any comments or questions, please contact the committee chairman, Greg Baylander at 815-494-7321or email him gregbaylander@hotmail.com.

With donated money that was designated for the 5 stand venue, a deck will be constructed in the coming months. More to follow as plans become firm.

Our second annual Open House is Saturday August 17 from 9 am to 1 pm. All members are encouraged to bring out friends and relatives that are interested in scouting out the club and hopefully becoming members. All guests have to register at the sign in desk prior to shooting and/or reviewing the club grounds. Guest fees will be waived, however all guests will pay $3.50 a round in cash prior to shooting. Lunch will be provided free of charge.

Club Projects

• Handgun range
• Second coat of paint on 3 of the skeet houses      (one painted last year) – approved
• Electrical power and cameras for the 5 stand and      handgun range – under consideration

2013 Club Events

• Open House – August 17
• Land Fill Lunch – September 10
• Braggin Rights Shoot – October 5

Best Regards,

Sam Valenza

President, Rockford Skeet Club