Saluting excellence, shooting for the future

Shooting Industry, Sept, 2008 by Russ Thurman

The accolades continue to pour into our office, praising last month's Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence awards presentation and the Shooting Industry Masters competition. Held in the heart of Gun Valley, the two events drew praise from leaders throughout the industry.

"Please allow me to thank all the FMG Publications personnel for the superb job done at the Masters and Academy of Excellence awards presentations," said Steve Sanetti, NSSF president. Sanetti praised FMG for "the fun and camaraderie all the participants shared during those two memorable days."

"What a terrific event and evenings! This is singularly the best shooting industry event available and a testimony to our cohesiveness and passion for the sports. Thank you again for all that you do--we are a better industry because of your efforts and energy," said Ron Coburn, Savage Arms CEO.

"You (FMG) sure know how to throw a party. We're impressed with the company you keep and we made a bunch of new friends and got back together with a bunch more old ones. A really good time." said Susan Houde-Walter. CEO, LaserMax.

"You (FMG) have, as usual, done a helluva job in the prep and delivery of the event. If there is more that Gunsite can do to ensure future successes, just let mc know; we will be there for you folks," said Buz Mills, Gunsite CEO.

The Academy of Excellence awards continue to be highly regarded and it's gratifying to see the awards receive the recognition they deserve. (See page 28.) The recipients of the awards are not determined by me, or an editorial board, or our advertising department, but by the Academy's members. There are 500 members from throughout the industry in the academy, and we thank them for their commitment to these prestigious awards.

It's also satisfying to witness the growth in the Shooting Industry Masters. We had a record number of shooters at this year's event. We've already begun planning for next year's Masters, which will be held July 24 and 25 at the Hartford Gun Club in East Granby. Conn. Yes, we're returning to Gun Valley. Now is the time for you to plan to join us at this three-gun competition, which raises money for NSSF's Step Outside program. This year, we raised $16,500 for the program. (Full coverage of the Masters will be featured in the October issue of SI.)

In addition to supporting a great program, the Masters strengthens the bonds within the industry, bringing us together for a day of shooting and reinforcing what a great industry we're in--one that we must continue to fight to preserve.

For more Information on the Academy and Masters, visit www. shootingindustry.com.