Local women take aim in Vernon

Hundreds take advantage of free day to learn how to shoot firearmsHIGHLAND LAKES — Although registration was limited to 300 women, the ladies kept arriving by the carload at Cherry Ridge Range, a remote shooting range tucked away off Canistear Road a few miles north of Route 23. Sussex County women from the majority of the county’s towns were in attendance; many of the NRA-certified instructors were also county women. The event was Women’s Day at the Range, put on by the Association of New Jersey Rifle & Pistol Clubs. During the day the women had the opportunity to shoot shotguns, handguns and low and high-powered rifles at no charge. Some fired as many as six or seven different guns during the day. According to Vernon Police Chief Roy Wherry, the request for handgun and other firearm-related permits increased immediately after the November 2008 elections. Scott Bach, president of the Association of NJ Rifle and Pistol Clubs, says “Along with the surge in firearms purchases, there has been a corresponding surge in demand for training, and events like this help to meet that demand.” A similar event for families is planned for October. Visit www.anjrpc.org for information.