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everyday citizens who vary in gender, ethnicity, economic status, cultural and religious beliefs. We are moms, dads, grandmothers/fa- thers, daughters, sons, doctors, executives, laborers, active in their communities — literally from every walk of life you can imagine,” says Jodie. Not only do Jodie and David take seriously their role of putting a positive face on the shooting community, they are passionate about advocating for and preserving the Second Amendment. “It is our responsibility as a US citizen to read and understand the Constitution and hold people accountable as their oaths of office indicate. The 19th Amendment refers to women’s suffrage and al- though it doesn’t apply to David as a male, he supports the amend- ment as a critical component of the Constitution. Similarly, if an individual decides not to own a firearm that is their right. But that right should not infringe on another’s right to bear arms.” Safety is also of the upmost importance to David and Jodie and all of the staff at Lake Martin Machine Gun. A safe shooting envi- ronment allows shooters to gain confidence and improves their own safety and skill level. Range Safety officers are always present to assist novice shooters and insure safe environment for everyone on the range. Like most southerners, David and Jodie both grew up around firearms mostly used for hunting. The ownership of firearms was not given much thought as it was just a part of life. Now, however, they are each immersed in shooting activities at the range as well as competitions. “I wanted to find an environment where I could continue to learn about firearms,” explains Jodie, “and David found a women’s shooting league online that offered a platform of edu- cation, recreation and community. Getting involved I realized there were so many ladies like me who wanted to learn more about firearms and have women specific shooting activities. So, I started the Lake Martin Chapter of A Girl and A Gun Women’s Shooting League in summer of 2017. In the first year we grew to more than 25 active members and have grown that over the last three years.” “As Jodie got more engaged in the Women’s Shooting League,” says David, “I connected with a number of members of the shoot- ing community and we began participating in several major matches a year. It is an activity we can do together. There is a bit of competition and a great culture of inclusion and support in the shooting family.” David and Jodie both agree that “the shooting community is truly a family who cares and supports each other like no other.” Whether you are a skilled marksman or a newbie gun-owner or have never touched a firearm, a visit to Lake Martin Machine Gun — whether for the historical experience, practice or instruction — will put a smile on your face. n 32 AL/ Metro 360 www.almetro360.com Jodie and David McGirt. Photo courtesy of Blue42Agency.