Female gun owners can become educated and empowered to operate firearms as members of the Haines Gals Shooting Club.
The new organization, which held its inaugural meeting in late November, is “by women and for women,” said president Cheryl Stickler.
The club’s three objectives are to empower and educate women in firearm safety, increase confidence in sport shooting and allow members to learn from other women in classrooms and at shooting ranges.
Stickler, who started the group, said they plan to become affiliated with the National Rifle Association and bring female shooting instructors to town for firearm courses.
Some classes on the docket include an introduction to handguns, handgun self-defense, concealed carry training, “Refuse to be a Victim,” “Outdoors Women,” and range safety officer training.
Stickler, raised by an NRA shooting instructor, said she was inspired in her first year of retirement to start the program in Haines after taking a handgun self-defense class in October.
“The main idea is women teaching women,” she said.
The club will have monthly meetings and collect annual dues of $35, which will pay for travel expenses for trainers. Business meetings will be held at the public library, while other meetings will be hands-on at the shooting range on Mud Bay Road.
Members must be at least 19 years old and able to pass a firearm background check. It is also suggested that members join the Haines Sportsman’s Association, which provides keys to the local gun range, and join the NRA.
Both inexperienced and experienced shooters are welcome to join. Stickler said she and treasurer Kathy Binkie will look for grant opportunities to purchase equipment that members can rent or borrow.
About 15 women attended the Dec. 11 meeting. Binkie said she joined the club because she thinks it’s a needed group.
“We’re going to learn about gun safety professionally. I think it’s important,” Binkie said.
Haines resident Donna Lambert will serve as sergeant at arms and Lindsey Edgar will serve as secretary. The club is in need of a vice president.
The Haines Gals Shooting Club will meet again Monday, Jan. 8 at 6 p.m. in the library.