Gregory Kielma • April 30, 2024
The Tail and Truth of the Dreaded Burmese Python
Man Wins Thousands After Ridding Everglades of Very Invasive Snake Species
The Tail and Truth of the Dreaded Burmese Python
©Source: Conservancy of Southwest Florida Discussing the environment is an easy way to discover which way someone leans politically, as well as their feelings about the planet.
Invasive species are animals and plants that are introduced to an environment they are not native to, which then become overpopulated and harm their environment. Invasive species adversely affect habitats and bioregions, causing ecological, environmental, and economic damage.
Invasion of species into long-established ecosystems is a natural phenomenon, but human-facilitated introductions have greatly increased the rate, scale, and geographic range of invasion over time. This began with their earliest migrations, accelerating in the Age of Discovery, and then accelerating again with international trade.
Not all invasive species are immediately obvious to the layperson. An obvious example of an invasive species would be the European rabbit in Australia, where rabbits proliferated rapidly after their introduction in the 18th century, and currently cause millions of dollars’ worth of damage to crops.
On the other hand, house cats are also considered an invasive species, which many people now believe to be a standard part of everyday life. Invasive species are not always harmful in the way that many people consider harm, but they are almost always displacing and disrupting the environment that they’re introduced to, meaning that they need to be dealt with.
In Florida, invasive species are particularly important to deal with considering the delicacy of the wetland ecosystem. Wetlands are an important environment that need to be protected as the planet slowly grows hotter, and preserving natural ecosystems and animal systems are an important part of that.
The Burmese python is an invasive species in the area, which unfortunately is an apex predator. This means that, once the animal reaches adulthood, there are very few other predators that can attack it to manage its natural population, meaning that the burden of population control falls on humans.
The Burmese python is a species of snake that is native to Southeast Asia. It was introduced into Florida going back as far as the 1930’s, and was first sighted in the Everglades National park in the 1990’s. It wasn’t until 2000 that they were recognized as a reproducing population there, and since then, the population of pythons in the Everglades has exploded.
These pythons are a particularly insidious breed of invasive snake in Florida. They can grow up to twenty feet long and weigh up to 200 pounds, meaning that there are very few natural predators for the reptile. They prey on a wide variety of birds, mammals, and crocodilian species in the area, and since their proliferation, there have been pronounced declines in several mammalian species in the area.
Because the Burmese python has few natural predators in the area, the Florida government has had to come up with different methods to try and control the population of snakes in the area, with limited success.
Part of the problem around trying to control the populations of this animal is the fact that many of the habitats that the Burmese python inhabits are inaccessible to humans. This means that animal control groups have had to get creative with their efforts.
One of these efforts is called the Florida Python Challenge, a statewide hunting competition. This is a challenge that pulls in hundreds of participants every year, competing for the grand prize of $10,000.
Most recently, this top prize was brought home by Tennessee resident, Paul Hobbs. He traveled to Florida with his father, son, and brother-in-law to participate in the challenge, and ultimately captured 20 Burmese pythons during the 10-day hunt.
The Hobbs family tradition of participating in the python hunt started with Hobbs and his father, Tom, who has won the novice category in the event. “As soon as you see one, the adrenaline just kicks in,” Hobbs said in an interview. “You’re all flying out of the vehicle and ready for the ride.”
More than 200 snakes were captured and killed during the hunt, which is a significant win for environmental control efforts. Each female snake can lay up to 100 eggs over the course of its lifetime, which explains how and why the population of snakes exploded in Florida in such a short period of time.
Since 2000, almost 20,000 pythons have been caught and killed in the Sunshine state. This is a mere drop in the bucket of the natural population, though, which is estimated to be as many as 300,000 individuals living in the Everglades alone, according to the state Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Ron Bergeron, a governing board member of the South Florida Water Management District, said, “It becomes the top of the food chain. We have found a full, whole deer inside of a python - up to a seven-foot alligator.”
The Florida Python Hunt is not the only time that these animals are hunted for the state, though. Contractors who are paid to hunt the pythons year-round have removed 11,000 of the animals since 2017, according to the Miami Herald.
A U.S. Geological Survey report called eradication of the animals “likely impossible,” though. “They’re an apex predator. Essentially when they become adults, there’s really nothing that preys on them,” said FWC nonnative fish and wildlife coordinator, McKayla Spencer.
She continued, “We don’t currently have a way to eradicate them, but in the last few years, we’ve made some great strides. Every python removed is one less python to harm our native species.”
In order to compete in the Florida Python Hunt, participants must complete a training course. These are dangerous predators, and people cannot sign up to engage with them willy-nilly. Individuals are disqualified if they kill a native snake, or if they inhumanely kill a python. The goal is population control in this contest, not animal cruelty or further environmental harm.
The Everglades is a 2 million-acre subtropical wetland, which once featured uninterrupted flowing water over an area that was nearly four times as large as it is today. It’s an important environment for many species, and preserving it is a top priority for many environmental agencies in the South, and specifically in Florida.
Controlling the local population of Burmese Pythons is merely one way that environmental agencies are seeking to restore the natural beauty of the Everglades. Other efforts include the $1 billion Kissimmee River restoration project. These efforts prove how important the Everglades is to environmentalists, and it’s clear that the goal is help restore the American wetlands to some semblance of their former glory.
VR Firearms Training at Tactical K Training and Firearms: How ACE and Meta Are Enhancing My Students’ Skills By Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms As an instructor who has spent years teaching responsible firearm handling in real world environments, I never adopt new technology just because it’s trendy. It must add value, reinforce safety, and genuinely improve a student’s ability to make good decisions under stress. That’s why VR training with ACE and the Meta platform has earned a place in my program — not as a replacement for live fire instruction, but as a powerful tool that strengthens everything we do on the range. A Safe Way to Build Confidence Before Live Fire One of the biggest advantages of VR is the ability to introduce new shooters to firearms concepts without the pressure of recoil, noise, or the anxiety that sometimes comes with handling a real weapon for the first time. Inside the ACE training environment, students can practice stance, grip, sight alignment, and movement in a calm, controlled setting. For many beginners, this reduces the learning curve dramatically. By the time they step onto my outdoor range, they already understand the fundamentals and feel more prepared. Realistic Scenarios Without Real World Risk ACE’s scenario-based modules allow me to expose students to decision making situations that would be impossible — or unsafe — to recreate in person. They can practice threat identification, situational awareness, and de escalation in a virtual environment that feels immersive but carries zero physical risk. This aligns perfectly with my teaching philosophy: avoidance first, escape if possible, and defense only as a last resort. VR gives students a chance to experience those judgment calls in a way that’s both educational and emotionally manageable. Repetition Without Fatigue In VR, students can repeat drills endlessly without burning through ammunition or dealing with physical fatigue. That means more reps, more consistency, and more opportunities to correct mistakes early. Whether it’s drawing from concealment, moving to cover, or practicing reloads, VR allows for focused, efficient skill building that complements the hands-on work we do with real firearms. A Bridge Between Technology and Practical Training I’ve found that VR doesn’t replace the range — it enhances it. Students who train with ACE and Meta tend to arrive more confident, more aware, and more mentally prepared. When they transition to live fire, they absorb instruction faster and make fewer fundamental errors. For experienced shooters, VR offers a way to sharpen decision making and refine tactics without the limitations of physical space. For beginners, it provides a gentle introduction that builds comfort and competence. The Future of Responsible Firearms Education As technology evolves, so does the way we teach. VR training with ACE and Meta has become a valuable part of my curriculum because it supports the same goals I’ve always had, safety, confidence, and responsible firearm ownership. Kielma’s Parting Shot: Combined with ACE and Meta, it’s not about replacing traditional training — it’s about giving students every possible advantage to learn the right way, at the right pace, in the right environment. Gregg Kielma
Instructor Rick S and Student Training in My Pasture: A Look at Your Outdoor Range: Tactical K Training and Firearms Gregg Kielma Set in the quiet openness of a Florida farm pasture, your outdoor shooting range offers something that’s getting harder to find these days — a private, peaceful, and purpose-built space where students can learn without pressure or distraction. The setting isn’t just scenic, cows and all, it plays a real role in the quality of training we deliver at Tactical K Training and Firearms. A Natural, Comfortable Environment The wide-open pasture creates a calm backdrop for learning. Fresh air, open sky, and the natural spacing of the land help students feel at ease, especially those who may be nervous or new to firearms. The rural setting also keeps noise low and distractions minimal, allowing shooters to focus on fundamentals and safety. Designed for Practical, Real World Training My range layout takes advantage of the pasture’s natural contours, giving you safe shooting lanes, solid backstops, and plenty of room for controlled drills. Whether teaching basic marksmanship, firearm handling, or scenario based skills, the space supports the kind of practical, real world training that responsible gun owners appreciate. Safety as the Foundation Even in a relaxed farm setting, my range maintains the same disciplined safety standards we are known for. Clear boundaries, structured instruction, and your emphasis on avoidance, escape, and defense ensure that every student understands not just how to shoot, but how to do so responsibly. A Personal, One on One Experience Unlike crowded public ranges, my pasture range offers privacy and personal attention. Students can ask questions freely, take their time, and build confidence at a pace that fits them. The farm setting reinforces that sense of comfort — it feels like learning with a trusted instructor like Gregg Kielma or Rick S, not performing in front of strangers. More Than a Range — A Place to Grow My outdoor pasture range isn’t just a place to fire rounds. It’s a place where people gain skills, confidence, and a deeper respect for safe firearm ownership. The combination of professional instruction and a peaceful rural setting creates an experience that sticks with students long after they leave. Gregg Kielma
“The Empty Lane” — A Short Thought From My Perspective Gregg Kielma-Tactical K Training and Firearms 1/24/2026 I unlocked the range just after sunrise today, Saturday January 24th 7:15 AM got it cleaned up and started to set up the lanes. The Florida air still cool enough to feel great. Mornings like that always remind me why I started Tactical K Training and Firearms in the first place—quiet, focused, full of potential. But as I walked past the shooting lanes, I noticed the same thing I’d been seeing for years. Most of them were empty at 10AM when I opened. People sign up, no show, or called to cancel, for so many reasons the list goes on and on. People buy firearms with the best intentions. They tell themselves they’ll train, they’ll practice, they’ll stay sharp. But life has a way of getting loud, and training is one of the first things that slips into the background. I remember a student Sam. Good guy, responsible, eager. After his first class he promised he’d be back every month. “I want to be confident,” he said. “I want to protect my family.” Months passed. No Sam. When he finally returned, he looked frustrated. “Gregg, I don’t know what happened. I meant to practice. I really did.” I hear that more than anything else. Just no time in his busy schedule. The reasons are as long as route 66 People don’t fail to train because they’re lazy. They fail because training requires commitment. It forces you to confront what you don’t know, what you can’t do yet, and what you’re afraid you might get wrong. It’s easier to believe that owning a firearm is enough. It’s easier to assume you’ll rise to the occasion when the moment comes. But the truth—the one most folks avoid—is that you don’t rise to the occasion. You fall to your level of training. As I stood there in waiting at one of the lanes, I thought about how many people carry a tool they’ve never truly learned to use. Not out of neglect, but out of fear, pride, or the belief that “I’ll get to it eventually.” That’s why I keep showing up. That’s why I keep unlocking the range at sunrise. BECAUSE I CARE. For Sam one day, someone like him will walk back in, ready to start again. And when they do, I’ll be there to remind them: Training isn’t about perfection. It’s about responsibility. And all the lanes will be waiting. Gregg Kielma
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Why Monitoring Your Blood Pressure Matters By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms 01/20/2026 As an ERT Captain and certified instructor, I provide blood pressure checks, if wanted, during all my classes I offer. This has helped us detect clients with potentially serious heart issues they were unaware of. While not a physician, I can identify critical warning signs requiring further attention. High blood pressure is often called the “silent threat” for a reason—it rarely shows symptoms, yet it can quietly damage your heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and brain over time. Regular monitoring is one of the simplest and most effective steps people can take to protect their long-term health. Checking your blood pressure at home gives you real time insight into how your body responds to daily stress, diet, sleep, and activity. It helps you catch changes early, long before they turn into serious medical problems. For many people, home monitoring also provides more accurate readings than occasional doctor visits, since it removes the stress and pressure of the clinical environment. Consistent tracking empowers you to make informed decisions about your lifestyle and health. It allows you to share accurate data with your healthcare provider, helping them tailor treatment, adjust medications, or recommend preventive steps. In short, monitoring your blood pressure isn’t just a habit—it’s a form of self-protection and early detection that can truly save lives. Thank you for taking the time to read this and help save your life or others. If you have any questions, please let know. Gregg Kielma
Why Some Virginia Lawmakers Push for Strict Gun Laws and Bans By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms 01-19-2026 Debates over firearm legislation in Virginia have intensified in recent years, with several lawmakers proposing sweeping restrictions on gun ownership, magazine capacity, and permitting requirements. While these proposals are controversial and often opposed by responsible gun owners, it’s important to understand the motivations driving them. Knowing the “why” behind these efforts helps gun owners stay informed, engaged, and prepared to advocate for their rights. 1. Rising Concerns About Public Safety and Gun Violence Many Virginia legislators argue that stricter gun laws are necessary to address concerns about public safety. Bills such as SB1109, introduced in 2025, aim to tighten handgun purchase regulations and expand background checks, reflecting a belief that limiting access will reduce misuse. Supporters claim these measures are intended to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals who may pose a risk. 2. A Push for More Comprehensive Vetting Several proposals focus on expanding the vetting process for firearm permits. These include: • Mandatory fingerprinting • More extensive background checks • Reviews of criminal history and mental health records These measures are framed as efforts to ensure only “qualified” individuals can obtain permits. While many responsible gun owners already exceed these standards through training and safe practices, lawmakers argue that uniform statewide requirements are necessary. 3. Influence of Gun Control Advocacy Groups Organizations that support firearm restrictions have become increasingly active in Virginia. Groups promoting “evidence based” gun violence prevention policies advocate for licensing systems, storage mandates, and magazine bans as ways to reduce crime and accidental shootings. Their messaging often influences legislative priorities, especially in districts where voters favor tighter regulations. 4. Political Shifts in Key Regions Urban and suburban areas of Virginia — particularly Northern Virginia — have grown rapidly and tend to elect representatives who support stricter gun laws. These lawmakers often cite constituent pressure to pass bans on certain firearms or accessories, such as the proposed magazine ban highlighted in recent legislative discussions. 5. A Belief That Restrictions Will Reduce Crime Some legislators believe that limiting access to certain firearms or magazines will reduce violent crime. For example, proposals to raise penalties for violent offenders using firearms are framed as crime reduction strategies. While critics argue that these laws target lawful gun owners instead of criminals, supporters maintain that restrictions are part of a broader public safety strategy. Kielma’s Parting Shot Virginia’s push for strict gun laws is driven by a combination of political pressure, advocacy influence, public safety concerns, and shifting demographics. Whether or not these laws are effective is a separate debate — but understanding the motivations behind them helps responsible gun owners stay informed and engaged. Gregg Kielma
Outside The Waste Band Holster. Open Carry Understanding Brandishing or Improperly Exposing a Firearm By Gregg Kielma_ Tactical K Training and Firearms 01/19/2026 I always field questions during training classes about brandishing a firearm in public, what are the consequences and how will it impact my life, my career or my family’s life? Let’s take a LOOK: My Thoughts Brandishing — or improperly exposing a firearm — is one of the most misunderstood areas of firearms law. Many gun owners assume that if they don’t point a gun at someone, they’re safe from legal trouble. The law takes a much broader view. Knowing what qualifies as brandishing is essential for every responsible gun owner. What “Brandishing” Actually Means Across most jurisdictions, brandishing refers to displaying a firearm in a threatening, intimidating, or aggressive manner. Importantly, the firearm does not need to be pointed at anyone for the act to be considered brandishing. According to legal sources: Even unintentional exposure can lead to accusations if someone feels threatened. • Brandishing is the act of displaying a firearm “to intimidate, threaten, or cause fear in another person”. • It includes “displaying, waving, or showing a weapon in a manner that is threatening or intended to intimidate”. • The key elements often include: o Another person is present o The display is aggressive or alarming o The intent (or perceived intent) is to cause fear What Brandishing Is Not: Context matters — and perception matters even more. If a reasonable person would feel threatened, the situation can escalate quickly. • Simply carrying a firearm in a lawful manner • Printing or accidental brief exposure while concealed carrying • Displaying a firearm in a non-threatening context (e.g., holstering at a range, cleaning at home) Potential Legal Consequences Brandishing is treated as a serious offense because of its potential to escalate into violence, even when no shot is fired. Depending on the state and circumstances, consequences may include: Criminal Charges • Misdemeanor or felony charges • Arrest and potential jail time • Heavy fines Loss of Firearm Rights • Suspension or revocation of concealed carry permits • Possible long-term loss of firearm ownership rights Civil Liability • Lawsuits from individuals who felt threatened • Financial damages for emotional distress or other claims Long-Term Impact • Criminal record • Loss of employment opportunities • Damage to reputation and credibility Why This Matters for Responsible Gun Owners I teach in my classes responsible firearm ownership and marksmanship, it matters. It’s about judgment, restraint, and understanding the law. Brandishing charges often arise from emotional reactions, poor decision-making, or misunderstandings that could have been avoided with proper training. A responsible gun owner should always: • Keep the firearm concealed unless legally justified to draw • Avoid escalating confrontations • Understand state-specific laws • Prioritize de-escalation, avoid, escape and as a last resort defend. Be the reasonable person. Always have a plan. Kielma’ Parting Shot Brandishing or improperly exposing a firearm is a serious legal matter with consequences that can follow a person for life. Education, awareness, and disciplined behavior are the best tools to prevent these situations. When gun owners understand the law and act responsibly, they protect not only themselves but the entire firearms community. Gregg Kielma
Wanda Kielma, Office Boss: A Life Defined by Strength, Service, and Steadfast Values Wanda Kielma i s a woman whose life reflects resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to the people around her. Known for her unwavering work ethic and her ability to bring calm, order, and compassion into any environment, Wanda has earned the respect of colleagues, friends, and family alike. Raised with strong values and a clear sense of responsibility, Wanda built her reputation through decades of consistent service and leadership. Whether managing complex tasks, supporting others through challenges, or stepping into roles that demanded reliability and integrity, she has always been the person people could count on. Wanda’s professional life is marked by diligence and loyalty. She approaches every responsibility with a level of care that sets her apart—never cutting corners, never compromising her standards, and always putting people first. Her ability to balance firmness with kindness has made her a trusted presence in every setting she enters. Beyond her work, Wanda is the heart of her family . She is the steady voice of reason, the quiet force that keeps things moving forward, and the person who shows up—every time, without fail. Her strength is not loud or boastful; it’s the kind that’s built through years of perseverance, sacrifice, and love. Those who know Wanda describe her as grounded, dependable, and deeply principled. She leads not through titles or recognition, but through example. Her life is a reminder that true character is revealed in the everyday choices we make and the way we treat the people around us. In a world that often celebrates the flashy and the temporary, Wanda Kielma stands out for all the right reasons: her integrity, her humility, and her unwavering commitment to doing what’s right. Her legacy is one of quiet strength—and the countless lives she has touched along the way. Our God is Great Wanda Amen….Love you for everything you have done for the past 40 plus years....
Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms Who I Am and Why I Teach: A Personal Message from me, Gregg Kielma Owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms to You, My Family, Friends, Clients and Students Running Tactical K Training isn’t just a business for me — it’s a responsibility I take seriously. Every day, I meet people who want to become safer, more capable, and more confident in their own lives. My job is to give them the tools, the knowledge, and the mindset to do exactly that. I’ve spent years working with firearms, optics, equipment, and real-world defensive concepts. Over time, I’ve learned that skill alone isn’t enough. What matters most is judgment — knowing when to avoid, when to de-escalate, when to escape, and only as a last resort, how to defend yourself or your family. That philosophy guides everything I teach. My approach is simple: clear instruction, real world context, and respect for the responsibility that comes with firearm ownership. I don’t teach fantasy scenarios or “tactical cosplay.” I teach practical, lawful, life preserving skills that ordinary people can use under stress. Whether I’m helping someone mount their first optic, refine their dry fire routine, or understand Florida’s self-defense laws, my goal is always the same — empower them to make smart, safe decisions. I believe in building a community of responsible gun owners who value safety, education, and continuous improvement. That’s why I write articles, update my website, and stay engaged with students long after their class ends. Training isn’t a onetime event. It’s a mindset. If you train with me, you’ll get honesty, professionalism, and instruction tailored to your experience level. You’ll also get someone who genuinely cares about your growth and your safety. I’m proud of the work we do here, and I’m grateful for every student who trusts me to guide them. Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep learning. — Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training & Firearms
Tactical K Training and Firearms: Trust and Integrity What a Responsible FFL Dealer Looks Like: A Reflection on me Gregg Kielma, Tactical K Training and Firearms and How I Run My Business Gregg Kielma 01/18/2026 As someone who works closely with firearm owners, students, and members of our community, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand what true responsibility in the firearms industry looks like. If you want an example of what a responsible Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer should be, you don’t have to look any further than Tactical K Training and Firearms and my staff. I don’t just hold an FFL — I embody the professionalism, integrity, and commitment to safety that the license represents. My Relentless Commitment to the Law One of the defining traits of a responsible FFL dealer is unwavering respect for federal, state, and local regulations. I approach compliance with the same seriousness I bring to every aspect of my work. We Always Ensure: • Every background check is completed thoroughly • Every form is accurate and properly maintained • Every ATF requirement is followed to the letter For myself, this isn’t about paperwork — it’s about protecting the community and upholding the trust placed in me as a licensed dealer. A Teacher at Heart: I’m a USCCA Firearms Instructor I understand that responsible firearm ownership begins with education. I don’t simply transfer firearms; I guide people through the process with patience, clarity, and genuine care. My clients understand: • Safe handling and storage • Legal responsibilities • Appropriate firearm selection • The importance of ongoing training I believe this approach ensures that every customer walks away not just with a firearm, but with the knowledge and confidence to own it responsibly. A Guardian of Community Safety As a responsible FFL dealer, I have to be very vigilant — and I take that responsibility seriously. I know the warning signs of straw purchases, suspicious behavior, and questionable intent. I’m not afraid to slow down, ask questions, or refuse a sale when something doesn’t feel right. That kind of integrity protects everyone. Professionalism You Can Trust As the owner of Tactical K Training and Firearms, we set a high standard in every part of our work. We value: • Honesty • Transparency • Respect • Secure handling and storage • Ethical business practices This professionalism builds trust — not just with clients, friends or family, but with the broader community that relies on responsible dealers to uphold the highest standards. A Positive Force in the Firearms Community When an FFL dealer operates with integrity, it strengthens the entire firearms ecosystem. My work supports lawful ownership, promotes education, and reinforces the culture of responsibility that keeps our communities safe. I’d like people to remember that the firearms industry is at its best when it is grounded in ethics, safety, and service. Gregg Kielma
