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CCW/CPL Class Notification E-List |
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CCW/CPL Class Student Testimonials |
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| The Following Are On File In Our Office: |
"Rick, Sorry that it has taken me so long to thank you. Although the class alone can't protect me or
my family from danger, it has improved our ability to defend ourselves. The techniques and information that
we covered in the class have taught me to be more aware and prepared period. I am more confident and
comfortable when I leave home, knowing that I'm better prepared to address potentially dangerous
confrontational situations. Once again thank you and I look forward to Session II (Personal Protection
Outside The Home Course)."
- Mr. A. L. Odell III, Auto Industry Employee, Southfield, Oakland County,
Michigan 48075 |
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"Rick, I really enjoyed your CCW Class and found it to be very informative. Having an attorney come in to
speak about various laws and priviledges with the permit was very helpful. I would have enjoyed more shooting
time at the range. Good class, very efficient, and informative. I will be sure to pass along your name to
anyone considering their CCW."
- Mr. B. C. Jaussi, Novi, Oakland County, Michigan 48575 |
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"Hello Rick. Sorry it took so long to get back to you. Just to let you know, I've got my CCW license and I
bought a 9mm S+W (M&P) semi-automatic. I had intentions of getting a revolver, but after seeing and shooting
your semi-automatic, I changed my mind. As for your class, I found that you were not only knowledgeable but you
were also enthusiastic. What really impressed me was the fact that when we went to the gun range, I was a little
short on money, you were kind enough to let me use your gun. This is what convinced me to buy a 9mm. I appreciate
your help and I would (and do) recommend your class to anyone wanting to get their permit. Thank you."
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Mr. C. W. Miller, Retiree, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48219 |
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"Rick Ector's firearm safety class provides a comprehensive introduction to the possession and use of
firearms for personal defense. The knowledge gained in this class is invaluable to both novices and
experienced firearm owners. Mr. Ector's sincere presentation of the materials is insightful and serves as a
reminder of the care and safety which must be exercised when using firearms. The course is taught in a
comfortable environment which is not intimidating to the first-time gun user. Any gun owner can benefit from
taking this course."
- Mr. J. Boyer, Attorney At Law, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48207 |
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"Rick's Firearm Academy of Detroit CCW class provided an excellent introduction to understanding personal
firearm basics, personal safety best practices, ccw application procedural instructions, and legal
implications with firearm ownership. Rick Ector and his assistant kept the class interesting with sharing
personal experiences, demonstrating basic firearm techniques, discussing legal matters with a lawyer, and
concluding with an exciting practice session at the firing range. Whether or not you pursue a CCW
application, this class is certainly a memorable one."
- Mr. N. Franklin, Automotive Engineer,
Rochester Hills, Oakland County, Michigan 48309 |
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“Rick, it’s been a while since I took your course, but I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the
experience. When I signed up, I had no idea of what to expect, but I found a warm and fun environment to
learn the ins and outs of obtaining my CCW. There was a lot of information put out that day, and because
there were so many real life examples, rather than just throwing out facts, I have been able to retain a lot.
It’s funny how much my awareness of my environment has improved. I notice things I did not see before taking
the class, and I feel I am better prepared to protect myself and my family. Thanks for the training and let
me know when you plan to expand your training program. Regards,
- Mr. J. Grady, Network Engineer, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48206 |
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"Rick Ector, you are a very funny man but very knowledgeable in the firearms department: 'It is not a
bullet; it is called a round of ammunition!' 'Do not call it a weapon; it is a gun!' '8-1/2 x 11 center
mass - it is going to be on the test!' I had a great time in the class. The eight hours really went quick.
Keep up the good work, Rick!"
- Ms. D. R. Lambert, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48224 |
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“Hello Rick, I apologize for the delay. I truly enjoyed your class! You did not only inform me about
guns and gun safety but also about general safety rules on how to stay alert! I wish we would have had more
time at the gun range. Having never even touched a gun, I was initially unaware on how to load the
ammunition (I felt like a girl! LOL) Also, I believe we shot between 30-60 rounds. I wish we could have
spent more time learning how to load the ammunition into the magazine. Also, I wished we could have spent an
additional 60-90 minutes at the gun range. Or maybe just another 4 hour class on ‘How to load the gun’ and an
additional 2 hrs at the range. Thank you and I hope all is well.”
- Ms. L. Johnson, Business Owner,
Southfield, Oakland County, Michigan 48037 |
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“Rick, prior to taking your class, my thought process was to arm and protect myself in this violent
world in which we live in. You have taught me that owning and carrying a firearm also brings much more
responsibility. This decision was not taken lightly and forced me to research firearms, perfecting the fit
(size does matter), practice handling a firearm, loading and unloading the magazine, in addition to
understanding the regulations and laws associated with owning and carrying a firearm. I just wanted to thank
you and your associates with all the valuable information required to obtain a CCW license.”
- Ms. T.
Clifton, Harper Woods, Wayne County, Michigan 48225 |
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"I appreciate the realness of the seriousness in obtaining a CCW/CPL. The class was informative,
especially the lawyer and how the both of you agreed and disagreed on handling certain situations. However, I
wished we could have practiced even longer at the range. I am going to recommend you and your class, for
first-hand knowledge, to anyone who didn't have a clue, such as myself. Thank you!!!"
- Ms. A.
Gilliard-Garner, RN, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48235 |
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“This class is highly recommended. If you want to know the advantages and benefits of concealed carry and
of firearm ownership, this class is for you. You may go in a skeptic, but you will come out a
believer.”
- Mr. N. Hardeman, Business Owner, Canton, Wayne County, Michigan 48188 |
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“Rick, I think that the Personal Protection Class was great. I also believe having the attorney present
for questions was also great. I would recommend this class to anyone who is interested in a personal
protection firearm class.”
- Mr. E. Jackson, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48235 |
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"As an attorney and just as a regular citizen of Michigan, I cannot say enough good things about Rick's Firearm Academy.
Rick Ector and his other instructors provided excellent training and instruction and managed to make a normally dry subject interesting and
entertaining. They were patient, knowledgeable, skilled, and talented in communicating important information about gun safety, personal
protection, and security. I learned a lot from Rick Ector and his staff. The info is extremely useful to my every day life, as I try to protect
myself. I was so impressed with Rick and his staff that I intend to take more courses from Rick's Firearm Academy. I am very lucky to have
learned about Rick's Firearm Academy, which should be a must for all Michigan residents. Rick Ector and his staff know their stuff and turned
a day of training and instruction on rules - regarding firearm safety and concealed pistol licenses - into an interesting experience that
benefited me and my safety. I will take the valuable information they imparted to me into my everyday life as I try to make myself more secure
from crime and threats. Well, worth the money. In fact, it's a bargain."
- Ms. D. Schlussel, Attorney-At-Law,
Southfield, Oakland County, Michigan 48034 |
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"Hello Rick, I just wanted to inform you how insightful your CPL class was. Not only did you and Damian educate me better on the usage of
a firearm but you also helped me with being aware of my surroundings and how I am approached by strangers as well. I am in the sales and
marketing profession for an aluminum manufacturer. I am often in rural and industrial areas and I am much more comfortable after taking your
class. I now have better firearm knowledge, know the difference of taking cover, and have knowledge of when it is illegal to shoot when you
have been victimized. I have recommended your class to most of my friends who have an interest; some have handled firearms, but they will
find that they too need to take your class. I have every intention to stay in contact for additional training and updates. Thanks again.
Regards,"
- Mr. M. Jackson, Sales and Marketing Executive, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48206 |
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"Hey! I just wanted to let u know that I really enjoyed your class and since then I've referred a few of my co-workers to participate just
this past month and they also enjoyed themselves and learned a whole about carrying a concealed weapon. Expect more of my coworkers to take
the class. On behalf of me and Wayne County Roads keep up the Great Work!!! :-))"
- Ms. D. Montgomery, Detroit, Wayne
County, Michigan 48235 |
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"Rick, your CCW class was great. I have the knowledge of how to use a firearm safely without harming myself or others. Since I attended
your class (July 12, 08) I have told a lot of my female friends and co-workers about the importance of obtaining a CCW for personal protection
due to the rough times we are living in. Since July, I have had four female friends, who have been robbed at gun point. Luckily, none of them
were injured during the attacks. I will tell any female to get a CCW - it's bad, times are hard, and if you're out late live or live alone,
you need that extra protection for peace of mind."
- Ms. J. Burse, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan 48213 |
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"I have been involved with firearms since I was 12 years old. I am an avid hunter and I also participate in various shotgun sports
like Sporting Clays and Skeet. My experience with handguns has been minimal and I have thought about participating in a class like this for
quite a long time. I have several friends that have taken a similar class and earned the CCW/CPL permits and after talking to Rick about
his class and asking questions about the class experiences of my other friends I decided to sign up for Rick's class. I think this was a
great decision and I thoroughly enjoyed the class. The format of the class was very informal and participative. Rick does a great job
involving those in the class with questions and in doing so gets people to participate and absorb the material. I really like the inclusion
of an attorney to discuss the legalities and Rick's questions at the appropriate time to emphasize points the attorney was making. The two
of them have a great rapport and it really helped move the class along. The class flowed along at a great pace and kept everyone's attention
for the whole time. Personally - I learned a bad habit in firing a handgun for my two hand position which definitely put my left thumb at
risk for firing a semiautomatic pistol. Rick's watchfull eye saved my thumb at the right time. Old habits are hard to break and I'm glad for
the one-on-one range time and his help. Thanks Again for a great class Rick!"
- Mr. A. Kropiewnicki, Oxford,
Oakland County, Michigan 48370 |
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"Mr. Ector: I very much enjoyed your firearm safety class on February 24, 2008. I have been around guns (weapons for us military types)
all of my life. Your comments about Rule Number Zero, "All weapons will be treated as if they are loaded even if we have confirmed that they
are not," is a basic rule and is one that I learned as a child on the farm in Pennsylvania. The class was very informative and your repeated
insructions and demonstrations on the important safety precautions, that each of us will need to follow to prevent accidents, was
outstanding. The additional information provided from your legal counsel was also very good. In summary, I will recommend anyone seeking to
learn about handguns attend your class. You have my permission to quote from my comments and use those quotations in your ads, brochures,
mailings, and other marketing promotions. Good Luck! Thanks for the class."
- Mr. R. W. Bryson, Harrison Township,
Macomb County, Michigan 48045 |
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"First of all, let me express how pleased I was with your rapport with your students. 8am-6pm is a loooooong time,
but in your class it didn't seem that way. You were informative, knowledgeable about the subject, and willing to address concerns. Thanks for helping me to
reach my goal of obtaining a CPL. See ya on MYSPACE!"
- Ms. L. Gray-Anner, Detroit, Wayne County, Michigan, 48219 |
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Michigan Gun Boards: Organization, Duties, & Powers - By Rick Ector |
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Michigan County Gun Boards: Organization, Duties, & Powers |
| Michigan County Gun Boards are legal entities empowered by law -
Public Act 381 of 2000 - to provide
oversight and governance of about 176,000 Concealed Pistol Licensees (CPLs) in the state. Michigan law requires that every county in Michigan
shall have a gun board. This article will detail the organization, duties, and powers of county gun boards.
Organizational Structure With County Prosecutor's Involvement
State law requires that each County Gun Board will have the following members:
- The County Prosecutor or his designee
- The County Sheriff of his designee
- The Director of the Michigan State Police or his designee
The County Prosecutor serves as the Chairman of the County Gun Board.
The County Clerk shall serve as the Clerk of the County Gun Board.
Organizational Structure Without County Prosecutor
The County Prosecutor is the only specified person in the statute who can "opt-out" of participating on the County Gun Board. Should he elect to not participate, he
"shall" notify the County Board of Commissioners - in writing - of his desire to not serve on the gun board for the remaining duration of his current term.
If the County Prosecutor tenders his resignation from his statutory position on the gun board, the County Commission will appoint a firearms instructor - who is
certified by the state of Michigan or a national organization to teach the eight hour long Basic Pistol Safety Training Class - to serve on the gun board in
the absence of the County Prosecutor for the duration of the County Prosecutor's current term in office.
The appointment of the firearms instructor to the gun board will remain in effect unless the County Commission removes him "with cause" from the gun board.
In the event of the initial firearms instructor's removal from the gun board, the County Commission will appoint another certified firearms instructor to complete the
term.
The County Prosecutor, despite his desire to not participate on the County Gun Board, shall be notified of all Concealed Pistol License (CPL) Applications
received by the County Gun Board. Further, the County Prosecutor shall be given an opportunity to object to the granting of a CPL to an applicant and to
present evidence that "bears directly on an applicant’s suitability to carry a concealed pistol safely." Moreover, the County Prosecutor shall disclose
to the gun board any information of which he has actual knowledge that bears directly on an applicant’s suitability to carry a concealed pistol safely.
The members of the seated gun board will elect one of its members of the gun board to serve as Chairman.
The County Clerk shall serve as the Clerk of the County Gun Board.
Michigan County Gun Board Duties
Duty 1. Inform CPL Applicants About Michigan Firearms Laws
The County Gun Board is required to distribute to each CPL applicant - at the time that a CPL application is submitted - a copy of a compilation of all firearms laws
in the state of Michigan. Every CPL applicant must sign a form attesting that he received the book. Else, he can not be later issued a CPL.
Duty 2. Maintain CPL Applications As Public Records
The County Gun Board is required to retain a copy of each CPL application as an official record. The statute is silent as to what purpose this serves. Perhaps, the
CPL applications can be used as evidence in cases where an applicant has made a material false statement.
Duty 3. Issue Concealed Pistol Licenses In A Timely Manner
The County Gun Board is required to issue a CPL - within the proper time limits established by state law - to a CPL applicant who properly submits a CPL application
and who meets the requirements for a CPL.
The Michigan State Police is required by law to forward the FBI's fingerprint comparison report of the CPL applicant to the applicant's County Gun Board within
10 days after receiving it. The County Gun Board must issue or deny issuance of a CPL to a CPL applicant within 30 days after the County Gun Board receives the
fingerprint comparison report from the Michigan State Police.
If the fingerprint comparison report is not received by the County Gun Board within 30 days after the report is forwarded to the Michigan State Police by the FBI,
the County Gun Board shall issue a temporary CPL to the CPL applicant if the CPL applicant is otherwise qualified for a CPL.
A temporary CPL issued under these circumstances is valid for 180 days or until the County Gun Board receives the fingerprint comparison report. If the CPL
applicant with the temporary CPL is later denied regular CPL status, the CPL applicant shall immediately surrender the temporary CPL to the County Gun Board that
issued that temporary CPL.
The County Gun Board is not required to issue a CPL if the FBI determines that the CPL applicant's fingerprints are "unclassifiable." A status of unclassifiable
means that a determination could not be made as to whether the CPL applicant has a criminal record. This situation is usually caused by unclear or smudged fingerprints.
Duty 4. Must Notify Denied Applicants Of Their Right To Appeal
If County Gun Board denies issuance of a CPL, it shall within 5 business days do both of the following:
- Inform the applicant in writing of the reasons for the denial. Information shall include all of the following:
- A statement of the specific and articulable facts supporting the denial.
- Copies of any writings, photographs, records, or other documentary evidence upon which the denial is based.
- Inform the applicant in writing of his right to appeal the denial in a Circuit Court hearing.
Michigan County Gun Board Powers
1. Exclusive Authority Over CPL Licensing
The County Gun Board, notwithstanding an order from a Circuit Court, has exclusive authority to issue, deny, revoke, or suspend a license to carry a concealed pistol.
Only two members of the County Gun Board are needed to establish a quorum. In addition, the business of the County Gun Board shall be conducted by a majority vote of
all of the members of the County Gun Board.
A County Gun Board may not convene more than three panels to assist it with its evaluations of CPL applicants. These panels do not have the authority to issue,
deny, revoke, or suspend a CPL. Further, these panels - if used - shall be comprised of representatives from the Prosecutor's Office (if on the board), the Michigan
State Police, and the County Sheriff's Office.
1A. CPL Revocations
A County Gun Board that issued a CPL to an applicant may revoke his CPL if the County Gun Board determines any of the following:
- The licensee committed a violation, other than a civil infraction as defined by PA 381 of 2000.
- The licensee is not statutorily eligible to have a CPL.
In both of the aforementioned cases, a revocation can not transpire until a written complaint has been made and the CPL licensee has had at least ten day's notice to
appear at a hearing on the matter.
1B. CPL Suspensions
A County Gun Board, upon learning of a licensee being found responsible for three of more civil infractions during his current licensed term - as defined in
PA 381 of 2000 - must conduct a hearing and may suspend the CPL for no more than a year.
A County Gun Board that receives notification from law enforcement that a CPL holder has been charged with a felony or a misdemeanor, as defined in Public Act 381
of 2000, must suspend the permit until there is a final disposition on the charges.
A County Gun Board, upon having clear and convincing evidence based on specific articulable facts that a licensee poses a danger to himself or to any
other person, shall immediately suspend the individual’s license pending a revocation hearing.
2. Authority To Investigate CPL Applicants
A County Gun Board is authorized to conduct investigations on CPL applicants to the extent necessary to determine whether the applicant meets the requirements of
being eligible to receive a CPL. Once that determination is made, the investigation ceases. The County Gun Board may require an applicant to appear before it to
assist it with its investigation. The failure of an applicant to appear, without valid reason, is sufficient grounds for the County Gun Board to deny the license.
3. Authority To Issue Temporary CPLs
A County Gun Board has the authority to immediately issue a temporary CPL to a CPL applicant if it determines there is probable cause to believe the safety of the
applicant or the safety of a member of the applicant’s family is endangered by the applicant’s inability to immediately obtain a regular CPL. A temporary license shall
be unrestricted and shall be valid for not more than 180 days. A temporary CPL may be renewed for one additional period of not more than 180 days. |
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| Musings of a Firearms Instructor - Part II |
Return to our Articles & Essays Page
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Registering For Our Next Michigan CCW/CPL Class Is Easy! |
Our next three "Personal Protection in the Home" (Michigan CCW/CPL) classes will be
conducted on the following dates:
- Saturday, April 4th, 2009 (Southfield Hampton Inn) - 7 Seats Left!
- Sunday, April 19th, 2009 (Southfield Hampton Inn) - 10 Seats Left!
- Saturday, May 12th, 2009 (Southfield Hampton Inn) - 12 Seats Left!
- Sunday, May 17th, 2009 (Southfield Hampton Inn) - 15 Seats Left!
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| All classes start at 8:00 a.m. sharp! |
Please note that the openings (i.e. "seats left" counts) are not made in "real time." Thus, we may have even fewer openings than
is currently listed. We strive to update our web site at least once daily.
RSVP now with your tuition investment to avoid missing out on this event!
If you require a training date further ahead than listed above, visit our 2009 Schedule Page to RSVP Now!
Our classes are usually conducted in the Oakland Conference Room at the Hampton Inn in Southfield, Michigan 48034. This hotel's address is
27500 Northwestern Highway. (Map to Hotel)
View Larger Map
Please note that unexpected and unforeseen circumstances may necessitate a change in the class's location. If an change is made, you will notified
in advance of the new venue.
The tuition investment for this training event is $170.00 - A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your seat.
Thus, you must either pay the full tuition amount or remit a deposit.
Please note that if you pay the full tuition in advance, you will receive a $20 discount. We provide this discount
to encourage students to pay in advance so that we can pre-pay expenses necessary to hold these events: hotel conference
room rental, attorney's speaking fee, official NRA program materials, refreshments, and etc.
To RSVP for our class on the date of your selection, you must choose exactly one of the following five personal
investment options:
Option 1. Remit Full Tuition Now via PayPal™
Option 2. Remit A Tuition Deposit Now via PayPal™
Option 3. Schedule An Appointment To Pay Full Tuition In Person.
Payment options 1, and 2 require you to click the PayPal™ "Buy Now" button for the class date of your choice.
Your web browser will then load a secure web page from the PayPal™ site where you will then be able to safely and
securely enter your credit card info to complete your registration.
Note: Payment options 1 and 2 do not require you to register with PayPal™ to use their secure, free, fast, and
convenient service to register for our classes. |
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| Open Enrollment Class - Saturday, April 4th, 2009 - 8:00 a.m. Start |
| Location: Southfield Hampton Inn - 27500 Northwestern Hwy. (Map to Hotel) |
| Option I |
Pay Full Tuition ($150) in Advance and Save $20!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses) |
| Option II |
Pay Tuition Deposit ($85) in Advance and Pay Balance ($85) at the Door.
(Total Cost: $170 + Range Expenses) |
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| Open Enrollment Class - Sunday, April 19th, 2009 - 8:00 a.m. Start |
| Location: Southfield Hampton Inn - 27500 Northwestern Hwy.
(Map to Hotel) |
| Option I |
Pay Full Tuition ($150) in Advance and Save $20!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses) |
| Option II |
Pay Tuition Deposit ($85) in Advance and Pay Balance ($85) at the Door.
(Total Cost: $170 + Range Expenses) |
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| Open Enrollment Class - Saturday, May 2nd, 2009 - 8:00 a.m. Start |
| Location: Southfield Hampton Inn - 27500 Northwestern Hwy. (Map to Hotel) |
| Option I |
Pay Tuition in Advance ($150) and Save $20!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses) |
| Option II |
Pay Tuition Deposit ($85) and Pay Balance ($85) at the Door.
(Total Cost: $170 + Range Expenses) |
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| Open Enrollment Class - Sunday, May 17th, 2009 - 8:00 a.m. Start |
| Location: Southfield Hampton Inn - 27500 Northwestern Hwy. (Map to Hotel) |
| Option I |
Pay Full Tuition ($150) in Advance and Save $20!
(Total Cost: $150 + Range Expenses) |
| Option II |
Pay Tuition Deposit ($85) in Advance and Pay Balance ($85) at the Door.
(Total Cost: $170 + Range Expenses) |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Registering For Our Class!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Our Class!
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If you are interested in attending any of the aforementioned classes, don't delay! They fill up fast and are limited to the first
fifteen students that have registered. So, RSVP now!
When we receive notification of your registration
from Paypal™ you'll receive a confirmation from us via email. |
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