I love when a newspaper article motivates positive action. I read a recent article regarding discussion in the Washington State Legislature over the importance of gun safety and potential inclusion of the National Rifle Association’s Eddie Eagle GunSafe program in our schools.
I have passions for both children’s growth and for gun safety. I’m familiar with the Eddie Eagle GunSafe program, and for years I’ve kicked around the idea of helping present it to kids in my own community. The article, and the advocacy of several of our legislators, has encouraged me to get involved.
I’m excited to announce our first presentation for kids will begin at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, June 22, at the Federal Way Regional Library on 1st Way South. It’s free, with the sponsorship of friends from the Armed Defense Training Association (armeddefense.org/gunsafety), participation from our local Federal Way Police Department, and the encouragement and resources provided by the National Rifle Association for this program.
I invite you and every responsible parent with a young child to attend. The program’s direct and crucial “Stop! Don’t Touch! Leave the area! Tell an adult!” message is tailored for kids from kindergarten through third grade.
Hope to see you there.
Gun safety is extremely important to me. One of my family members was paralyzed as a child by the negligent discharge of a firearm. However, family members and close friends alike have shared with me how, in their own real lives, they’ve responsibly used guns to protect themselves and their loved ones.
I’ve developed deep and profound passions for both gun safety and responsible, personal gun ownership. I take personal responsibility, education and preparedness all very seriously.
My husband helped found the Armed Defense Training Association in 2010, and I became involved soon afterward. Since then, I’ve become a National Rifle Association Range Safety Officer, and I help supervise and promote gun safety at many ADTA events.
I’m a devoted mom to our two boys, 11 and 15, and gain some of my own best personal fulfillment working with children in various educational and activity groups, and seeing them all explore, develop and grow.
April Hiatt, Federal Way
