Ever since the Mineral County Shooting Sports Association (MCSSA) parted ways with the Friends of the NRA for their annual banquet, they’ve been able to retain more of the funds raised and reinvest that money directly back into the community. 

“One organization we support is the 4-H Archery Team,” said Pat Lattshaw, who is chairing this year’s event. “James ‘Jimmie’ Kelly is one of our protégés. She recently competed at the nationals in Nebraska.” 

The funds also help develop MCSSA’s shooting range facilities, including their new 1,000-yard range, which is still a work in progress.

The Association’s headquarters are located on property they purchased several years ago near the Quartz/Lozeau Exit 55 off I-90. The building is used year-round and has become something of an unofficial community event center. 

It’s also the venue for their biggest annual fundraiser, which this year takes place on Saturday, Oct. 4. 

“We only have 176 dinner tickets available, and they sell out pretty fast,” said Anndenia Heyer. “Tickets can be purchased on our website: mineralshootingsports.com.” Anndenia, who handles marketing and the popular ‘Ladies Table,’ is married to MCSSA Vice President Shawn Heyer, but her involvement goes well beyond just being a supportive spouse. 

“I’m not in a ‘volun-told’ role,” she laughed. “I believe in the organization and help in every way I can. Honestly, I consider this evening one of the best date nights a couple could have!”

Lattshaw shares that excitement. 

“Our fabulous caterer this year is once again Jerry Stroot from Superior Meats. We’ll be serving prime rib with all the fixin’s and it’s absolutely delicious.” 

The evening will once again be emceed by the talented Michelle Stump (MCSSA Treasurer). 

“No one can hold a candle to her expertise during the event,” said Lattshaw. The live auction will be led by the ever-popular auctioneer Kevin Hill of Kevin Hill Auctions. “It’s always a fun time when he’s running the show.”

A special tradition of the evening is the youth giveaway: Every child under 16 in attendance receives a ticket for a chance to win an age-appropriate firearm. This year’s prize is a Savage Model 64 in .22LR. 

“We have firearms for 22 lucky winners this year,” Lattshaw said, giving a special shoutout to Roni and Tracy Phillips, who manage the Federal Firearms License (FFL) paperwork and help keep the event running smoothly. “Roni also supports Michelle with the treasury side of things.” 

Other games throughout the evening include fan favorites like the Duck Pond and the Treasure Chest, along with a brand-new activity called Pistols and Pearls. There’s also a pre-event raffle for a stunning pair of Taylor & Company Pietta 1873 SA Brass Stage Grip .357 Magnums. 

“They’re a beautiful pair of six-shooters,” said Lattshaw. “Perfect for cowboy action shooting, or, if you just want to admire them.” 

She also extended thanks to the many volunteers who make the evening possible: 

“Special thanks to Kevin Donally (MCSSA President) and Sheila Rigby for running the bar as we’ll have beer, wine, and sodas available. And to Dave Brink (MCSSA Secretary) for handling the mountains of paperwork. And to everyone else who helps run the games and keep the night flowing smoothly.” 

She added one final thank you: “Knife River has been incredibly generous with their help and donations of concrete, especially for the 1,000-yard range.”

For questions or more information about the banquet or MCSSA, contact Pat Lattshaw at 406-822-0199.