March 10, 2003 – MEDIA ALERT
=====No, we’re not snipers=====
WHAT: Boomer Shoot (Precision rifle shooting at exploding targets)
WHEN: Fri. May 2, 10:00 AM, Long range shooting & explosions
Sat. May 3, 10:00 AM, Precision rifle clinic w/ Major Gene Econ
Sun. May 4, 10:00 AM, Long range shooting & explosions
WHERE: Cavendish, Idaho
WHY: All-American recreational enjoyment of pyrotechnics & guns
CONTACT: Joe Huffman, Event Director, 208-301-4254,
or Stephanie Sailor, Range Assistant,
WEBSITE: PHOTOS & VIDEOS:
Over 100 gun and pyrotechnic enthusiasts will gather to shoot at exploding targets in Northern Idaho for a weekend of fiery fun at the sixth annual Boomer Shoot, May 2-4. Major Gene Econ (Retired), a former Officer in the US Army Special Forces, will offer precision rifle training during the Saturday session of the event. Econ is currently a marksmanship instructor for the 1st Brigade of the 25th Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team) at Fort Lewis.
“The clinic is unique in that no matter what level of proficiency one brings to the class, they’ll leave with more confidence and knowledge in their marksmanship ability,” says Econ.
“Econ teaches the meticulous art of nipping targets the size of your fist,” says Joe Huffman, Boomer Shoot director. “Precision rifle shooting is a sophisticated sport and, above all, it’s safe.”
However, as a result of the recent D.C. sniper shootings, Huffman has received complaints from concerned citizens, expressing their fears about safety in regards to this year’s Boomer Shoot. Huffman reinforces that sniping and precision rifle shooting are two entirely different things.
“Precision rifle shooters at the Boomer Shoot aim at milk cartons in the open. Snipers kill humans from the shadows,” says Huffman.
The Boomer Shoot maintains a spotless safety record, with zero serious injuries in the history of the event.
“After firing tens of thousands of rounds and detonating hundreds of pounds of explosives over the past six events, the only injuries have been minor scrapes, bruises, sunburn, and sore shoulders.”
Shooters and spectators from across the country will attend the event, including law enforcement officers, scientists, engineers, members of the Boeing Pistol & Rifle Club, and Microsoft Gun Club.
“The Boomer Shoot is a gathering of geeks with guns,” says Huffman, who works in a government laboratory as a senior research scientist. “We just want to have fun.”
Spectators are welcome at the event; shooter positions are still open but are expected to sellout. A special spectator/shooting slot will be available to media representatives for free. Shooters interested in attending Econ’s rifle training should contact Econ directly at .
For more information, please contact Joe Huffman at 208.301.4254, or Stephanie Sailor at . Visit the Boomer Shoot website at: ###