Orange County’s Bullets & Bagels Comes to the Valley
Bullets & Bagels brings its mix of fellowship, food and fun to the Firing Line Indoor Shooting Range in Burbank Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016.It’s the first San Fernando Valley event for the Jewish shooting club from Orange County. “At our recent programs, our numbers from Los Angeles were increasing and others were asking when we would do something further north,” said Fred R. Kogen, MD, B&B’s founder and president.
Kogen, a physician and mohel, began the group two years ago for Jews interested in learning more about firearms, whether they’re experienced or have never handled a gun. At first, mostly men attended its recreational shooting events, but increasingly women have been joining and at the last event, nearly 30 per cent of those participating were women.
The B&B members and participants also run the gamut of ages, from students to bubbes and zaydes. The spectrum of observance is also broad, from Orthodox to secular Jews. Membership and the events are open to anyone, and nearly 20 per cent of members are not Jewish.
Like most B&B events, the Feb. 7 program begins at 7:30 a.m. with breakfast, including kosher choices. Also customary is a firearms expert who addresses the gathering during breakfast.
Chase Bruno, a former Marine and military policeman and expert on concealed weapons, will speak on the best choices for those who have concealed carry permit in the context of what California law permits.
After his talk, the group will repair to the shooting range. It’s not necessary to bring a gun to the event, because there will be plenty of choices available to test — under the guidance of NRA certified instructors.
“We seek to take the fear out of firearms by educating our members in a supervised and friendly environment,” said Kogen. “What has pleased me the most is that nearly everyone I’ve spoken to after an event comments on the camaraderie in the group. During breakfast and during the firing practice, people are making friends.”
The Bullets & Bagels Feb. 7 event is $45 for members, $75 for non-members and $20 for food, beverage and presentation only. Those interested may register by using the Firing Line Burbank tab at