With all of the gun-related violence that has taken place in the country over the last few months, citizens across the county are seeking new ways to protect themselves, and Jasper County residents are no exception.

More than 50 people showed up to the Jasper County Community Center last Saturday morning to take part in the Iowa Permit carrying classes taught by Steve Hensyel of HawkEye Firearms Instruction. He also taught a class for a Utah permit later in the afternoon.

“We wanted to learn the laws,” said Julie Dougan, who attended the Iowa session with her husband, Scott. “We wanted to learn what you can do and what you cannot do. We want to be able to keep our family safe. We have four kids.”