Saturday, February 28, 2009

Trailer for "Endangered Species: California Fish & Game Wardens" from Andrew Swan on Vimeo.

I just spent the morning watching this entire movie and it is absolutely worth every minute of your time.

California hunters, California citizens and California wildlife are all in jeopardy should this situation continue to exist.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 01:30 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Mitchell, SD - February 25, 2009 - Pheasants Forever (PF) is proud to announce that the 700-member strong organization Pheasant Country, LTD of Mitchell, South Dakota, has converted to a PF chapter and is now known as the Pheasant Country Chapter of PF. The chapter will continue its tradition of holding its annual banquet on the eve of the South Dakota pheasant opener at the World's Only Corn Palace in Mitchell.
 
PF is the only national conservation organization that empowers local chapters with the responsibility to determine how 100 percent of their locally-raised conservation funds are spent. This local control allows chapters to see the fruits of their chapter efforts in their own communities.
 
"We feel that after twenty-four years of success as Pheasant Country LTD-Mitchell, we want our organization to move up another step on the ladder and grow bigger and better," said David Allen, Pheasant Country chapter president. "By uniting with the other 34 Pheasants Forever chapters in South Dakota and the 600-plus chapters nationwide, we belong to a larger national organization with a voice on federal and state conservation policy while maintaining our local habitat and youth program efforts."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:18 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

. .http://www.ravenwear.ca

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:45 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Tucson, AZ – Safari Club International (SCI) this week is thanking exhibitors, donors and members for making its 2009 Annual Hunters’ Convention successful in the face of a tough economy. The Reno convention raised millions of dollars for SCI’s mission of hunter advocacy, conservation, education and humanitarian services in North America and worldwide. 

With approximately 20,000 attendees, nearly four miles of aisles and 1,100 vendors and exhibitors, SCI attendees had more hunts, guns, gear, mounts, jewelry and art to see at the 2009 Convention than at any other hunting show around the country. This year’s show also boasted numerous seminars, led by outdoor celebrities such as Craig Boddington, Jim Shockey and Mark Watts on hunting abroad and how individuals can pursue their hunting dreams.

“In 2009 about 90% of the people I waited on were new customers, which speaks very highly for SCI's ability to mobilize the hunting community and entice them into coming to SCI’s show, the world's largest gathering of elite hunters, professional hunters and gear companies," said Richard Sanders, President of Tiffin Hill Marketing Communications.  This was Sanders’ 25th year working at the SCI show with client Russell Moccasin.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:44 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Interested in joining some great folks from The Virginia Waterfowl Association in building some Wood Duck Boxes for a day and doing some real work on the ground? 

Come on out and help these great folks get-r-done for conservation.

Wood Duck Box Building Day.  Contact Brad Puryear for details.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:04 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

If you love good times and the outdoors like we do, you won't want to miss the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Old Dominion Chapter's 21st annual banquet and fundraiser. We guarantee you a great time supporting a great cause!

This year's banquet is Saturday, March 14, 2009 at Holiday Inn Koger Center South. Doors open at 4:00 PM. During the"social hour" you'll enjoy drawings, raffles, games, drinks, and the silent auction. Dinner and live auction will follow.

The Elk Foundation helped support Virginia’s Operation OUTDOORS, a mentoring program giving 2nd through 6th grade boys who do not have a strong male role model a chance to learn archery, rifle shooting, and the basics of fishing

Download the Flyer HERE

Event: Old Dominion ChapterBanquet

Date: Saturday, March 14, 2009

Time: 4:00 PM

Location: Holiday Inn Koger Center South

1021 Koger Center Blvd

Richmond, VA 23235

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:23 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

SAN FERNANDO VALLEY CHAPTER
Serving the Greater Los Angeles area for over 15 years!

Event: RMEF 25th Anniversary
Big Game Banquet
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2009 4pm
Location: Knights of Columbus Hall
            21433 Strathern Street
            Canoga Park, CA 91304

Our chapter’s 16th year of great fun and good times, all in the name of wildlife conservation and habitat preservation.  Join us for our great catered  wood fire BBQ, our live country band (this year the celebrated Cash Cats!), great games and raffles, and some fabulous auction trips to places like Colorado, Alaska, New Mexico and South Dakota.  Help us celebrate the 25th anniversary of the founding of the RMEF!

Tickets: $75 (includes meal and 1 year
        Membership in RMEF-other options
        available, see attached ticket form)

DOWNLOAD EVENT FLYER HERE

      
Contact: Cathy O’Connor
        818-345-4426
        SFVelkFoundation@aol.com

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:21 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Since I was a little girl, I have been taking pictures of nature and wildlife. I had been bugging my mom and dad for a new camera. Well, this past Christmas, that wish came true. "Santa" had left me a new Kodak camera. I couldn’t wait to start taking pictures.

I love taking pictures of wildlife and nature because it helps me capture special moments and lasting memories that I can share with others. Some pictures are worth a thousand words. Some of the pictures I take will make you laugh, smile or cry.

I love taking pictures of my cats, dogs and rabbit because I love to try different angles, backgrounds and just being creative with my pictures.


This picture has two of my favorite cats (left) cookie and puff. I was walking around outside when I saw them on a leaning tree. I ran and managed to taken this picture of them looking at something below.

SEE MORE...

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 03:46 PM | 3 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Event: RMEF 25th Anniversary

Big Game Banquet

Date: Saturday, April 11, 2009 4pm

Location: Knights of Columbus Hall

            21433 Strathern Street

            Canoga Park, CA 91304

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:20 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance (YSSA) recently announced that Taurus International Mfg., Inc., Miami, FL, has generously donated Rossi matched pair 20 ga./.22 LR guns in support of priority youth shooting sports programs. The Rossi matched pair consists of a single shot rifle with an interchangeable shotgun barrel. The firearm operates with a single shot, break-open design.

Taurus donated six Rossi matched pairs to the Heart of Virginia Council of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), Richmond, VA; six Rossi matched pairs to the Tukabatchee Area Council, BSA, Montgomery, AL; six Rossi matched pairs to the Gerald R. Ford Council, BSA, Grand Rapids, MI; and two Rossi matched pairs to the Longs Peak Council, BSA, Greeley, CO. These programs were among those selected by an industry panel convened to review proposals submitted by youth organizations in response to the 2008 National Youth Shooting Sports Program Needs Assessment conducted by YSSA.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:12 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.—The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation knows how much premier elk tags can generate for conservation, and RMEF reps on Friday night helped Pennsylvania’s first-ever special elk tag raise $28,500.

The tag was auctioned at the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF) convention in Nashville.

“Congratulations to NWTF. We’re always pleased when good money is raised to conserve habitat for elk and other wildlife—and it was gratifying for us to be there, participate in the auction and help this tag bring a respectable amount,” said David Allen, president and CEO of RMEF.

The tag appeared seconds away from selling for $8,500 when RMEF reps jumped into the bidding to ensure the tag brought a worthy sum. When the auctioneer finally finished, the cheering crowd erupted at the total raised for conservation in the Keystone State.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:23 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, February 23, 2009

Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever support creation of Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund 

Des Moines, Iowa – February 20, 2009 – Iowa voters will decide in November of 2010 whether to amend the state Constitution to set up a protected account to improve the state's water quality and water resources. The fund would also improve wildlife habitat, soil conservation, lake restorations, parks, and trails. This week, the Iowa Senate approved the idea with a 49-1 vote; the Iowa House passed it 82-14. The amendment now goes straight to voters. Pheasants Forever (PF) and Quail Forever (QF) join a host of other conservation organizations, hunters and anglers in support of the amendment's passage. 

If Iowans approve, the next time lawmakers raise the sales tax, three-eighths of the money raised by a one-cent increase would go into the new account – a Natural Resources and Outdoor Recreation Trust Fund – at an estimated $150 million a year.  

Iowa would join Missouri, Arkansas and Minnesota as states to approve Constitutional amendments to dedicate funding for natural resource conservation. This past November, Minnesota voters approved The Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment. The measure will raise the state sales tax by three-eights of one percent - from 6.5 to 6.875 percent - beginning July 1, 2009, and will generate an estimated $300 million a year in today's dollars, or around $11 billion over the next 25 years.

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 04:43 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, February 23, 2009

We are proud to be working in partnership with Altus Brands.

http://store.altusbrands.com/?Click=262

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:01 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Saturday, February 21, 2009

The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance (YSSA) recently announced that Taurus International Mfg., Inc., Miami, FL, has generously donated Rossi matched pair 20 ga./.22 LR guns in support of priority youth shooting sports programs.  The Rossi matched pair consists of a single shot rifle with an interchangeable shotgun barrel.  The firearm operates with a single shot, break-open design. 

Taurus donated six Rossi matched pairs to the Heart of Virginia Council of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), Richmond, VA; six Rossi matched pairs to the Tukabatchee Area Council, BSA, Montgomery, AL; six Rossi matched pairs to the Gerald R. Ford Council, BSA, Grand Rapids, MI; and two Rossi matched pairs to the Longs Peak Council, BSA, Greeley, CO.  These programs were among those selected by an industry panel convened to review proposals submitted by youth organizations in response to the 2008 National Youth Shooting Sports Program Needs Assessment conducted by YSSA. 

Taurus has been recognized as a passionate supporter of youth shooting sports programs and has provided noteworthy leadership and support in restoring Camp Seminole, the primary camping facilities of the South Florida Council, BSA, which were devastated by Hurricane Wilma in 2005.  Taurus has tirelessly worked in partnership with the Council to rebuild Camp Seminole and provide the Scouts with a quality camping facility to include a safe, structured shooting program and range for them to reengage in the sport of shooting. 

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 00:05 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Iowa PF State Council kicks off campaign with $100,000 donation

Des Moines, Iowa – February 19, 2009 – Iowa Pheasants Forever (PF) and Quail Forever (QF) announce an ambitious new campaign to restore the state's pheasant and quail populations. "Reload Iowa" adopts an aggressive strategy for establishing and improving 1 million acres of wildlife habitat, increasing the number of upland hunters and increasing hunting-related revenue to local communities.
 
In the early 1970s, Iowa hunters harvested 1.9 million pheasants and 1.1 million quail, which compares with an estimated 400,000 to 500,000 pheasants this past year and 54,000 quail last year. The decline is due to long-term changes in agricultural practices and most recently the loss of over 280,000 acres from the federal Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). Recent harsh winters and spring flooding have exacerbated the loss of habitat. "Reload Iowa" is a campaign outlining a three-year statewide plan to improve available wildlife habitat; establish new, high quality nesting cover and brood-rearing habitat; expand wildlife habitat delivery systems and offer increased habitat education and training for landowners. The goal of "Reload Iowa" is to raise $11.5 million to establish and improve 1 million acres of wildlife habitat on private and public land in the state. Not only will these habitat improvements benefit wildlife, they will provide additional benefits such as improving water quality, preventing soil erosion and sequestering carbon which is important in offsetting greenhouse gasses.

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 03:01 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 19, 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with BowTech Archery of Eugene, Oregon yesterday announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: "The General" Compound Bows

Units: About 8,000

Manufacturer: BowTech Archery, of Eugene, Ore.

Hazard: The ends of the bow's limbs can unexpectedly break during use and send fragments of the bow in the direction of the user or bystanders, posing a risk of injury.

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 10:21 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

These animals were photographed just north of the Wisconsin border on a highway near Marenisco , MI .
   
 Once in awhile there is an opportunity to take in a piece of nature that you may never see. In these days of unrest and turmoil it is great to see that Mother Nature can still produce some wondrous beauty.

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 08:25 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

WASHINGTON - This past weekend symbolized a missed opportunity for waterfowl, wildlife, and taxpayers when the deadline to opt-in to Sodsaver passed. Governors of North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Minnesota, and Iowa declined to participate in the provision of the 2008 Farm Bill, which would remove incentives to cultivate native prairie.

"Native prairie is one of our most fragile ecosystems, and we need to ensure that it is not lost forever," said Don Young, Executive Vice President of Ducks Unlimited. "While we are disappointed that this opportunity to promote healthy land stewardship has passed, we are hopeful that this can be the beginning of a new discussion about protecting our last remaining native prairie habitats."

Ducks Unlimited biologists have estimated that more than 3.3 million acres of native prairie could be lost during the next five years without Sodsaver - the equivalent of 15 percent of the remaining 22 million acres. Native prairie conversions will ultimately reduce fall waterfowl migrations across North America.

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 08:00 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Fairfax, Virginia - NRA Publications will present its annual Golden Bullseye Awards and Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award at an invitation-only reception during the 2009 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, May 15-17, in Phoenix, Arizona.

"The Golden Bullseye Award honors our winners for bringing to market products remarkable in their utility to shooters and hunters," said Joe H. Graham, Executive Director of NRA Publications. "The award, now in its seventh year, has become a symbol of excellence and innovation in firearms, accessories and related equipment. We are confident shooters and hunters will receive this year's winning products with enthusiasm, and we congratulate the winners."

The Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award specifically honors outstanding personal achievement. "The award spotlights the exemplary achievement and cumulative body of work of an individual, members of a team or partnership, or family who were responsible for the development and introduction of shooting equipment that has made a profound, positive and enduring impact on the way Americans shoot and hunt," said Joe Graham. "This year's winners are legend in our industry."

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 07:55 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

AUSTIN, Texas – Innovation and affordability are two buzzwords that in reality rarely coincide. The American Deer & Wildlife Alliance (ADWA) announces Blackpowder Products (BPI), a provider of innovative and affordable products, as their latest sponsor. Founded in 1999 and through brand expansion, BPI is known today as a parent company to many highly successful brands in the hunting and shooting industry.

ADWA director of operations Annie Jones says: “One of our main objectives at ADWA is to increase participation in hunting, and we realize that a big roadblock can be simple economics. We support businesses, like Blackpowder Products, who provide quality products that are affordable enough for the average hunter.”

“BPI is excited to work with ADWA in increasing our exposure to their member organizations and individual members, but mainly we want to support their efforts in promoting our industry through education,” says David Meredith, Customer Service Manager and Public Relations for BPI Inc. “They are making tremendous strides in promoting everything we love about hunting and shooting in a positive light.”

READ MORE...

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 07:45 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

The Savage Sports Corporation, Westfield, MA, a long-time supporter of youth shooting sports programs, recently announced their continuing support of the Youth Shooting Sports Alliance (YSSA) by providing rifles in support of priority youth shooting sports programs. 

Ron Coburn, Chairman/CEO of Savage Sports Corp., states “The YSSA is providing a valuable service to the shooting sports industry by identifying the youth shooting sports programs that best contribute to the future market goals of the industry.  There are a great number of quality youth programs across America that need help in acquiring equipment and supplies.  Finding the right programs to support can be a difficult and time-consuming process.  The YSSA makes it easy by identifying groups with the greatest potential return on investment and prioritizing them based on criteria such as program quality, potential for growth and participation levels.” 

The following priority youth shooting sports programs are receiving Savage Mark I .22 rifles in support of their respective programs. 

READ MORE...

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 03:20 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Passion for Conservation Helps State Land RMEF 25th Annual Convention


MISSOULA, Mont.˜Wild elk have never been prevalent in Texas but the species remains an inspiration for conservationists active in Texas chapters of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Since 1984, Texans have raised over $7.3 million for Elk Foundation habitat projects, mainly in the West, while keeping another $215,000 for conservation and education initiatives at home. From Amarillo to Houston and Dallas to El Paso, the Lone Star State‚s connections to RMEF run deep.

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 03:04 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, February 16, 2009

AUSTIN, Texas — The American Deer & Wildlife Foundation, in conjunction with DB Hunting Ranch and the American Deer & Wildlife Alliance, is helping kids pig out this month. Youth ages eight to 15 are invited to attend the 1st Annual Pig-apalooza Youth Hog Hunt. The event will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2009 and March 1, 2008, at DB Hunting Ranch in Bertram, Texas, and will provide a morning and evening hunt as well as a pork sandwich lunch and some other fun, educational activities during the day.

“We are very excited to offer this youth hunting event in the Texas Hill Country,” says Annie Jones, director of operations for ADWA. “The Foundation was established to help encourage more youth involvement in the sport by creating greater accessibility and affordability. The DB Hunting Ranch is our co-sponsor for the event and we really appreciate partnering with them to help make it all happen.”

Working in conjunction with ADWA, the American Deer & Wildlife Foundation is a 501(3)c non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the accessibility and affordability of hunting for youth and educating children on wildlife and conservation issues. As part of its mission, ADWF also produces a quarterly youth publication, SPIKES Magazine, which is distributed to summer camps across the country.

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 02:15 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, February 16, 2009

Southwick Associates has announced the brands and products that hunters and target shooters preferred most in 2008. This list has been compiled from the 24,206 surveys completed by hunters and target shooters last year for HunterSurvey.com and TargetshootingSurvey.com. In 2008, top brands included:
 

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 11:08 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Story by Trevor Simmons

            It was about the middle of the week when I asked my friend Caleb if he wanted to go squirrel hunting with me on the weekend. He said he’d love to and asked when to be there. As Friday night rolled around he finally showed up. We stayed up late Friday night playing video games and talking about where we where going to hunt the next morning.

            Due to the late night video games we didn’t really get an early start. As we rolled out of bed around 8:00 a.m. we checked the temperature and woke Dad up. In a hurry we threw on some thick camo, grabbed our .22’s, and headed out for the morning.

            We got to our hunting spot around 8:45 a.m., and sat down to let everything calm down a bit. After about thirty minutes of nothing, we all decided to split up and go see if we could find anything. So Caleb and I started down one side of the hill; Dad slipped down the other side. As Caleb and I got down to creek we heard something over the next hill in the leaves. I told Caleb to sit down because I thought the sound over the hill sounded like turkeys.

            As we found a big tree to sit under I heard a hen purring and yelping just over the hill. Just a few minutes after sitting down we had 5 to 10 turkeys out on the hill in front of us. Then 5 to10 turned into 15 to 20 turkeys, and I whispered to Caleb, “I know where I’m going to be this spring.” We sat there for about thirty minutes and let the turkeys move off. It was a great learning and growing experience for both of us.

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 04:06 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Saturday, February 14, 2009

WICHITA, KANSAS-- Today, many children express an interest in outdoor activities, but don't have the support to help them realize those adventures.

Field Dress LLC has stepped up to help these kids. A portion of the price of every item sold on Field Dress's website (http://www.fielddressed.com>www.fielddressed.com) will go directly to Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors Program. Field Dress will also be supplying packs for specific Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors Program events. Chad Rodvold of Field Dress stated, "Pass It On- Outdoor Mentors is the ideal platform for Field Dress to continue its' design ideals of respect and passion for the outdoors. I feel extremely privileged to be a part of such a worthy organization."

The Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors program recruits mentors who will share their love of the outdoors with children who lack opportunities to get outdoors without a mentor showing them the way. Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors was recently endorsed by the National Forum on Children and Nature as on of 30 projects that creatively reconnect kids with nature, benefiting their overall health and appreciation for the great outdoors. "Too many children are spending too little time outdoors," commented Mike Christensen, President of Pass It On - Outdoor Mentors, Inc. "The generosity shown by Field Dress reflects their commitment to the outdoors…providing not only quality products for those who love the outdoors, but working to make the outdoors accessible for our youth as well. Their assistance through this effort will make it possible for more of our youth to experience the outdoors cherished by Chad and all of his customers."

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 01:36 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Proceeds used to restore habitat for Arizona's Elk herds and other wildlife.

The Arizona Elk Society will hold their 8th Annual Banquet on Saturday March 21, 2009 at the Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St. Mesa, Arizona beginning with Happy Hour at 4 pm. Dinner will be served at 5:30pm. Raffles, Silent Auctions, Blitzes and Live Auctions throughout the night.

As has been the practice at this fundraiser, the event will feature a live and silent auction, blitzes, and raffle drawing prizes; highlighted with a fine selection of quality firearms, artwork, collectable's, a live mule and the auctioning of the Arizona Commissioners year round Trophy Elk Tag.

According to Sharon Eichelberger and Kathi Thompson the Banquet tickets are $70. Reserved tables of 8 are available for $800 and Corporate table packages are available for $1600.

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 01:30 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Saturday, February 14, 2009

WASHINGTON - The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership has commended recent federal decisions to moderate public-lands energy development in Utah and Colorado in the face of threats to natural resources. The sportsmen's coalition reaffirmed that such actions should be pursued as part of a return to the multiple-use principles governing use of public lands.

On Feb. 4, Interior Sec. Ken Salazar withdrew proposed oil and gas leases on more than 100,000 acres of public lands in Utah in order to fully evaluate them. The secretary's act effectively resolved the controversial sale, which had drawn criticism from a range of interests due to the areas' valuable fish and wildlife habitat and cultural significance. The TRCP filed an official protest of the Utah sale in December due to concerns about the impacts of proposed energy development on big-game habitat, crucial mule deer winter range, vital sage grouse habitat and Bonneville cutthroat trout streams, as well as hunting and fishing opportunities on these lands.

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 01:23 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Saturday, February 14, 2009

NASHVILLE, Tennessee Dozens of limited edition firearms will be raffled during the Gun Blast in the Exhibit Hall of the National Wild Turkey Federation's Convention and Sport Show, held Feb. 20 to Feb. 22 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville.

The Gun Blast will feature opportunities to win special turkey-hunting shotguns, past NWTF Guns of the Year, tactical firearms and more. Raffles, fun games and a few surprises will take place at the Gun Blast booth from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.

"Guns you thought you couldn't get anymore, you might just find at the Gun Blast," said Rhett Simmons, NWTF director of special events. "We're reaching deep into our vault and bringing out some great items, so whether you're a serious firearms collector or a hunter looking for a new sporting arm, you'll definitely want to stop by and enter for a chance to win big at our brand new Gun Blast."

READ MORE...

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 01:12 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Kansas City, Missouri -The Kansas City Area chapter of Safari Club International will host the second annual SCI Kansas City Hunter's Expo on February 20th to 22th at the Kansas City Expo Center, Kansas City, Missouri.

The three-day event is in its second successful year in the Kansas City area and will feature exhibits by gun makers, outfitters and numerous name-brand outdoor industry companies. A full slate of Pro-Staff seminars on big game, turkey hunting and waterfowl hunting is scheduled throughout the event. The seminars will be presented by well-known hunting experts and TV personalities. A waterfowl calling contest is also planned and a 3-D archery range will be the focal point of the seminar series.

Seminar speakers include outdoor writer and Alaskan hunting guide Bob Robb; Haley Heath of the hit TV show Family Traditions; Keith Mark, host of McMillan River Adventure TV; John Vaca and Jeff Foiles, nationally recognized champion waterfowl callers, as well as a host of other professional hunters and outdoor experts.

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 01:08 AM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, February 13, 2009

FAIRFAX, Va. — NRA KEWL Kids is the latest program offered by the National Rifle Association’s Disabled Shooting Services. The event is scheduled for May 2, 2009 at the Izaak Walton League in Fairfax, VA. The day will focus on outside activities for children between the ages of 8 -18 with physical disabilities and will include .22 rifle, air rifle, archery and fishing.


Disabled Shooting Services Manager Vanessa Warner expects approximately 30 participants for this event. “KEWL stands for Kids Excel Without Limits, and it was created to show children with disabilities that participating in the world of outdoor sports can be a reality,” Warner said. “This inaugural event is to be the pilot for what we intend to become a national program that will help other clubs to bring children with disabilities to their facilities.”

POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 11:32 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, February 13, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn. -- Following calls from anti-hunting groups to expand California's ban on traditional ammunition statewide, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) -- the trade association for the firearms, ammunition and hunting industry -- urged hunters to contact the Fish and Game Commission, the Department of Fish and Game, the governor and their state legislators to demand science-based wildlife management and not allow anti-hunting interest groups such as the Center for Biological Diversity to destroy the American heritage of hunting -- a critical wildlife management tool.

Proponents of a statewide ban on traditional ammunition argue it is necessary in order to safeguard animals and the health of hunters. However, many of the species that proponents of the ban claim to be "at risk" have flourishing populations; this demonstrates successful wildlife management practices that are based on managing species populations, not individual animals. Furthermore, a recent CDC study failed to show any evidence that consuming game harvested with traditional ammunition posed any human health risk to hunters.

"Banning traditional ammunition is poor public policy that is not supported by sound science and is being driven by an anti-hunting agenda," said NSSF President Stephen L. Sanetti. "Advocates of this ban have a fundamental misunderstanding of the basic science underlying wildlife management. Their lack of understanding on the subject and disdain for America's hunting heritage will hurt the entire state as significant tax revenue derived from hunters is lost."

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POSTED BY JOSH MORRISSEY AT 11:25 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Friday, February 13, 2009

WICHITA, KS (February 11, 2009). Today, many children express an interest in outdoor activities, but don’t have the support to help them realize those adventures.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:09 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

MISSOULA, Montana-President Obama this week will receive a letter initiated by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and 32 partner conservation organizations urging removal of federal protections for specific populations of gray wolves.

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar also will receive a copy of the letter.

"Together, the signees represent millions of America's most active conservationists. We're hopeful that our impressive coalition will help influence President Obama to clear the way for individual states to manage their wolf populations," said David Allen, president and CEO of the Elk Foundation.

The Elk Foundation continues to voice its longstanding support for delisting wolves under the Endangered Species Act, enabling state-based management. In December, RMEF joined with 18 other groups urging the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to delist wolves in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. In July, a judge sided with activists who challenged federal data showing that wolf populations are fully recovered in the northern Rockies. An injunction halted delisting and drew criticism from the Elk Foundation.

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POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:39 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

"This legislation is the culmination of a thoughtful and inclusive process to identify the funding needs for wetlands and other important natural resources in Iowa," said Eric Lindstrom, DU regional biologist. "After the devastating floods of 2008, we are reminded of the importance of our natural resource infrastructure and the need to invest more resources to ensure their viability for future generations."

Legislators on both sides of the aisle overwhelmingly supported the measure in 2008. Before voters have the opportunity to adopt the amendment, the legislation must be passed in identical form by the general assembly a second time. DU is working with a broad coalition to build public and legislative support to accomplish this goal.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 00:36 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Greg Jennen and I caught up today and he has a great opening for this May on Trophy Black Bear hunted from his 55 foot yacht.  2 hunters booked this trip over a year ago and last minute issues have forced them to abandon this hunt.  Their loss is absolutely your gain.  Greg only has two slots available for this hunt.  

READ MORE...

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:55 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The Western Hunting and Conservation Expo (WHCE) Grand Finale Banquet and Auction held Saturday night at the Salt Palace was another record-breaking event this year. Some 1,200 friends of conservation attended the gala hosted by Jeff Foxworthy.

During the live auction, the Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) sold its 2009 Utah Statewide Deer tag for an all-time record amount of $205,000. The 2009 Utah Henry Mountain Deer tag raised another $90,000 for conservation.

MDF’s President and CEO Miles Moretti said, “The state of Utah has produced some of the largest deer in the country, as evidenced by the competitive bidding on these tags. This has been a great event for the Mule Deer Foundation, and we could not be more pleased.”

Moretti concluded, “Once again we are breaking records at the WHCE, both in attendance and in dollars raised to benefit wildlife. We’re looking forward to next year’s event scheduled for Feb. 11-14, 2010, and will have some exciting announcements coming soon.”

READ MORE...

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 05:38 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Many people find that accurately judging distance is one of the most difficult aspects of bow hunting. But with a little practice, it’s possible for everyone to turn this area of weakness into a strong point, and there will be no more stories of that heartbreaking miss—at least not due to inaccurately judging distance.

There are several methods for judging distance. It’s important to find one or more that works for you, and practice it consistently. Laser range finders are useful, but taking the extra time to use it when the game wanders into sight may cost you the opportunity to get a shot off. It’s best to be able to accurately judge distance without the use of your range finder.

READ MORE...

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 05:27 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

With your help, SCI and Bass Pro Shops are educating teachers so they can share the truth about hunting, fishing, shooting and conservation with students.

Forty-nine teachers from districts located near Bass Pro Shops around the country will have the opportunity to attend SCI Foundation’s American Wilderness Leadership School (AWLS) in Jackson, WY for an eight-day course on the outdoors and hunting’s role in conservation.

READ MORE...

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 04:23 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, February 9, 2009

Barnes Bullets - February 2009 Newsletter is out and the link is here:

http://www.barnesbullets.com/resources/newsletters/bullet-n-archive/february-2009-barnes-bullet-n/

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:40 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Monday, February 9, 2009

Overland Park, KS. — At the recent SHOT Show in Orlando Florida, Bushnell Outdoor Products honored three men who have each served the United States of America with distinct service.

In making the presentations during a media press conference, Phil Gyori, Executive Vice President of Marketing at Bushnell said, “These men served our country in different capacities, and each was outstanding in the job they did.”

General Joe Engle who has been a long time Bushnell Consultant and advisor is an avid hunter and shooter. During his time with the US Air Force he received many honors including USAF Astronaut Wings, USAF Distinguished Flying Cross, AFA Outstanding Young USAF Officer, AIAA Lawrence Sperry Award for Flight Research and AIAA Pioneer of Flight Award.

READ MORE...

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:34 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 5, 2009

MISSOULA, Montana.-Attention all squealers, grunters and shriekers: OK, so you're a loudmouth, but do you have what it takes to win the Super Bowl of elk calling?

If so, bring your A-game to the Fort Worth (Texas) Convention Center, March 6-7, for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation/Leupold 2009 World Elk Calling Championships. Registration is open to the public.

The raucous competition will be held as part of the Elk Foundation's 25th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo, March 5-8. Spectator seating for the elk calling championships is included with daily admission to the expo: $12 per person or $25 per family, and free for kids 5 and under.

Preliminary rounds of competition begin Fri., March 6, at 9:00 a.m. Finals begin Sat., March 7, at 9:00 a.m., followed by awards and crowning of 2009 world champions.

READ MORE...

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:53 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 5, 2009

The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance (YSSA) recently announced that O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc. has generously continued their support of priority youth shooting sports programs.

Mossberg, the leader in introducing important design breakthroughs to the firearm industry since 1919, donated two Mossberg 500 Super Bantam 20 ga. shotguns to the Mississippi 4-H Shooting Sports Program; four Mossberg 500 Super Bantam 20 ga. shotguns to the Mobile Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA), Mobile, AL; five Mossberg 500 Super Bantam 20 ga. shotguns to the Mt. Diablo Silverado Council, BSA, Pleasant Hill, CA; and four Mossberg 500 Super Bantam 20 ga. shotguns to the Palmetto Council, BSA, Spartanburg, SC. These programs were among those selected by an industry panel convened to review proposals submitted by youth organizations in response to the 2008 National Youth Shooting Sports Program Needs Assessment conducted by YSSA.

Mark Kresser, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Mossberg, states "We count on the recommendations of the Youth Shooting Sports Alliance regarding the youth shooting sports programs that promise the greatest potential for growth and participation levels. With their guidance, we are confident that our product donations will help elevate local shooting sports from ‘good' to ‘excellent.'"

READ MORE....

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:46 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 5, 2009

John Banovich is an absolute hero of mine.  As well as being an amazing artist, John is a hunter and a conservationist.

We had the opportunity to interview John in 2008 and he is as amazing to talk with and we thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity.

Link to our interview with John

Link to Articles in Western Art and Architecture

Link to Western Art and Architecture Magazine

Link to Article in Pakistan Chronicle

Link to John Banovich's Website

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:25 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 5, 2009

NEWTOWN, Conn. -- Despite a weak economy and slumping retail sales, firearm sales continued to increase in January, continuing an upswing that began after November's election.

Data from the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) show background checks on the sale of firearms jumped 28.8 percent in January when compared to January 2008. The increase follows a 24 percent rise in December and a 42 percent jump in November, when a record 1,529,635 background checks were performed.

FBI background checks are required under federal law for all individuals purchasing firearms from federally licensed retailers. These checks serve as a strong indicator of actual sales.

"Since the election, sales of firearms -- in particular handguns and semi-automatic hunting and target rifles -- are fast outpacing inventory," said Steve Sanetti, president of the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the trade association for the firearms and ammunition industry. "Americans are clearly concerned about their ability to be able to purchase these products in an uncertain future."

NICS reported 1,213,885 checks in January, up from 942,556 in the same month a year ago. Last year, a total of 12,709,023 background checks were reported, up 14 percent from 2007.

NSSF, founded in 1961, is the trade association for the firearms, ammunition and recreational shooting sports industry. It promotes the safe ownership and responsible use of products its members make and sell. For more information, visit www.nssf.org .

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:05 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 5, 2009

AnglerSurvey.com and HunterSurvey.com are pleased to announce their $1,000 shopping spree grand prize winners for 2009.

This year's grand prize drawing was held February 2, 2009. One $1,000 winner was drawn for AnglerSurvey.com and another $1,000 winner for HunterSurvey.com.

Frank from Florida is the 2009 AnglerSurvey.com winner of a $1,000 shopping spree gift certificate at the fishing retailer of his choice. HunterSurvey.com grand prize winner Dexter from Alabama gets a $1,000 shopping spree gift certificate at the hunting and outdoors retailer of his choice. (Their personal information remains confidential)

Every month, ten anglers and ten hunters participating in the polls on AnglerSurvey.com and HunterSurvey.com are awarded $100 gift certificates to the hunting and fishing retailers of their choice. In February, two randomly drawn $1,000 grand prize gift certificates each are awarded to a lucky hunter and an angler.

Anglers and hunters who complete the survey each month are automatically entered in the monthly drawing for one of the ten $100 gift certificates, along with an additional chance of winning the $1,000 year-end grand prize. For each month an angler or hunter completes the monthly survey, he or she earns an additional chance of winning the $1,000 shopping spree. Only one survey is permitted per person per month.

Anglers and hunters can take the surveys by visiting www.AnglerSurvey.com or www.HunterSurvey.com . The angler or hunter completes a survey each month. His or her name is then automatically entered into the $100 monthly drawings and the $1,000 grand prize drawing.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:35 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Madison, Wis. – February 3, 2009 – The first-ever Renewable Energy & Wildlife Habitat Forum presented by Alliant Energy will be held at Pheasants Forever's (PF) National Pheasant Fest 2009 this Saturday and Sunday at Exhibition Hall at the Alliant Energy Center. The Forum will be highlighted by a roundtable discussion on Saturday at 3 PM with leading experts from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Alliant Energy participating. The Roundtable will be moderated by Dave Nomsen, PF's Vice President of Government Affairs.

The Renewable Energy & Wildlife Habitat Forum will examine the future of renewable energy and the opportunities for wildlife habitat. The Forum will include over a dozen seminars on topics including "Renewable Energy and Wildlife Habitat – The Potential," "Biofuels and Conservation Programs" and "Research on Switch Grass Establishment." The complete list of seminars at the Forum can be seen here.

The Renewable Energy & Wildlife Habitat Forum roundtable starts on Saturday at 3 PM in Mendota Room 4 at Exhibition Hall at the Alliant Energy Center. Roundtable participants include: Kim Zuhlke, Vice President, New Energy Resources, Alliant Energy; Tom Melius, Regional Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; Toby Lloyd, USDA Farm Service Agency;  Pat Leavenworth, Wisconsin State Conservationist, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service; Bill Belden, President, Prairie Lands, LLC; Dave Jenkins, Director, Wisconsin Office of Energy Independence; Rod Nilsesteun, Secretary, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture; and Matt Frank, Secretary, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:30 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Helena, Mont. - February 3, 2009 - Montana's 18 Pheasants Forever (PF) chapters and 2,000 PF members spent over $300,000 in 2008, which translated into 65 wildlife habitat projects benefitting 2,353 acres for pheasants and other wildlife across the state.

In 2008, Montana PF chapters spent $303,878 which in turn helped complete: One land acquisition totaling 1,000 acres; 245 acres of wildlife food plots; two nesting cover projects totaling 30 acres; two wetland restorations totaling 14 acres; and 3,000 tree and shrub plantings for wildlife winter cover.

Since the first Montana chapter of PF formed in 1987, the state's 18 chapters and 2,000 members have raised and spent over $2.3 million to complete 952 habitat projects, conserving, restoring and enhancing 32,524 Montana acres for pheasants and other wildlife.

READ MORE...

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:27 PM | 1 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — Elections for three members for the National Wild Turkey Federation's board of directors are final. NWTF members cast their votes and elected Dr. Frank A. Coble of Illinois, and re-elected Gene Denton of Arkansas and Dave Mahlke of Minnesota.

"Each board member brings experiences and ideas to the table that will help the NWTF move forward with its mission," said George Thornton, NWTF CEO. "I look forward to working with every member to help provide our volunteers, partners and sponsors with quality experiences while staying rooted to our core mission of conserving wildlife habitat and preserving the hunting tradition."

A national nonprofit conservation organization that was founded in 1973, the NWTF has worked with wildlife agencies to restore wild turkey populations from 1.3 million wild turkeys in 1973 to nearly 7 million today. Now, NWTF volunteers raise funds and work daily to improve critical wildlife habitat, increase access to public hunting land and introduce new people to the outdoors and hunting. To date, the NWTF and its partners have spent more than $286 million upholding hunting traditions and conserving nearly 14 million acres of wildlife habitat.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:00 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Article by Josh Morrissey

Haven't you always wanted a fast and easy way to clean the barrel of your shotguns?   I know I have!  Always messing around with different bottles of oil and making a mess gets a little old when you have to do it as much as I do.  Lucky for me, I found the perfect thing to fix this problem.  The Stinger Bore Cleaner is one of the most innovative, simple, and easy ways of cleaning your barrel.  I was a little skeptical at first, but they turned out to be one of my favorite gun cleaning tools.

The Stinger Bore Cleaner is available in 12 or 20 gauge sizes.  It looks just like a shotgun shell, and works similar to it.  All you have to do is put the Stinger Bore Cleaner in the chamber of your shotgun, point your shotgun in a safe direction, and pull the trigger!  This will fire a small string out the end of your barrel.  Now, all you have to do is take the string in your hand, and pull!  The Stinger Bore Cleaner will do the rest!  I couldn't believe how easy it was!  Your barrel doesn't just get cleaned, it gets 360 degree lubrication and protection!  After you pull it through the first time, you can drop the string back through the barrel for another pass if needed, or you can even use it to clean your other shotgun barrels!  I got cleaned 2 of my shotguns that desperately needed cleaning and the Stinger Bore Cleaner still looked like it could go for more!   Once I was finished, I just threw it away.  So, after seconds, your barrel is clean and ready to be put away for next time!

As you can see, the Stinger Bore Cleaner can save a lot of time and hassle, and for a very reasonable price.  They are 100% non-toxic and disposable, so whether you want a quick barrel cleaning at home or you are out in the field, the Stinger Bore Cleaners will not disappoint you.  If you haven't tried one of these yet, I highly recommend you get some.  You can find them in most of your larger sporting goods stores.  I can guarantee you will not be disappointed.  I know I wasn't!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:02 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

By: Trevor Simmons

    It started out just like any other early muzzleloader season morning. I headed out trying to connect with an elusive four point buck. I’d been after him since my Dad told me about him. I had seen him during bow season a few times myself. This buck had slipped by me three times already this season and it wasn’t going to happen again.

     I climbed up in my two man ladder stand well before daylight overlooking a cutover and settled in for the day’s hunt. As daylight broke the scamper of squirrels filled the woods behind me. Then the songbirds began their early morning songs. It had been about an hour since sun rise when a doe stepped out about 150 yards away, but after a few seconds immediately went back in the woods.

READ MORE...

Trevor is trying out for our Pro-Staff and I think he is off to a great start with this story.... We look forward to his next one!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 11:01 PM | 3 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance (YSSA) recently announced that Daisy Outdoor Products, the world's oldest and largest producer of airguns, has established a generous product account donation from which the YSSA can supply BB-guns, air rifles and related equipment. 

Daisy has been a long-time supporter of youth shooting safety and youth shooting sports programs.  The company recognizes the impact that the Youth Shooting Sports Alliance (YSSA) is going to have on enabling even more organizations to introduce young and first-time shooters safely to airguns and to all disciplines of the shooting sports.  For 2008, Daisy established a product donation account to be used by YSSA to establish new programs and enhance the effectiveness of existing airgun programs, especially where financial need is a factor. 

"Some of those shooting sports programs benefiting from YSSA grants and Daisy's generosity include the Blue Grass Council, Boy Scouts of America, Lexington, KY; Eugene Ashley High School Navy JROTC unit, Wilmington, NC; Mobile Area Council, BSA, Mobile, AL; Buffalo Trail Council, BSA, Midland, TX; Blue Ridge Council, BSA, Greenville, SC; Laurens District 55 High School NJROTC unit, Laurens, SC; Crater Lake Council, BSA, Central Point, OR; and the Louisiana Royal Rangers, Alexandria, LA."

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:44 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

January 29, 2009 (Washington, DC) - Hunters, anglers, and conservationists across the country will have strong bi-partisan legislative support in the United States Senate on issues important to America's outdoor and sporting heritage during the 111th Congress.

Senators Ben Nelson (D-NE) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) have been chosen to serve as co-chairs and lead the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus in the United States Senate.

"I grew up hunting and fishing and as an elected official, I have a tremendous opportunity to advocate these traditions in the halls of Congress. As co-chair of the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus, I look forward to working with my fellow sportsmen on Capitol Hill to advance the interests of hunters, anglers and conservationists who continue to enjoy the time honored American tradition of enjoying the outdoors," said Senator Nelson.

READ MORE..

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:37 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

MISSOULA, Mont.—Learn how to call elk, pack a horse, hunt backcountry, get more from a hunting guide, field dress big game without gutting, cook venison, train a retriever and hunt predators—all under one roof.

These seminars and more, each presented by noted authorities, are part of the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation’s 25th Annual Elk Camp & Hunting, Fishing and Outdoor Expo. The event will be held March 5-8 at the Fort Worth (Texas) Convention Center.

The schedule for “Spike Camp” seminars sponsored by Cabela’s and other workshops:

READ MORE....

Editors Note:  If you are interested in learning more about elk, hunting and conservation FORT WORTH TEXAS is the Place to be.  We will be there and we could not be more excited about the fantastic seminars offered for this year.  The seminar speakers look like a Who's Who of Elk Hunting.  There are about 10 cannot miss seminars as well as some amazing auctions, dinners and a fantastic exhibit hall....... Get yourself to Fort Worth!!!!!

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:51 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

ORLANDO, FL – What happens when you combine building products innovator Style Crest® with Mossy Oak®, the leader in camouflage designs? You end your hunt for realistic camouflage vinyl siding – WildSide™ exterior cladding from Style Crest with Mossy Oak Obsession®.

Style Crest has licensed the Mossy Oak Obsession pattern and developed WildSide exterior cladding – the only vinyl siding product on the market that is focused on the more than 17 million outdoor enthusiasts. Now avid outdoor enthusiasts can display their passion for nature on their sheds, hunting cabins, shooting houses, blinds, and barns, and they can even bring their passion for hunting home with residential accents.

“We decided that it was time to get a little wild, show our innovative side and shake things up a little bit, to let loose of the traditional and the mundane and step over to the wild side,” said Brad Johnson, vice president of marketing for Style Crest Building Products. “WildSide exterior cladding from Style Crest, featuring Mossy Oak Obsession, is a unique and exciting way to create the lifestyle people want and help them express their passion for the outdoors. While we would be thrilled to see a whole sub-division of homes in WildSide siding, we are focused on the outdoor enthusiast who has been hunting for a way to showcase their love of the outdoors on a grander scale.”

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:31 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Grand Island, Neb. – February 2, 2009 – Nebraska Pheasants Forever (PF) and Quail Forever (QF) will unveil an ambitious new campaign to restore the state's pheasant and quail populations at the Nebraska PF/QF State Habitat Meeting on Saturday, February 7th at the Midtown Holiday Inn in Grand Island. University of Nebraska Athletic Director and pheasant hunter Tom Osborne will help make the "Reload Nebraska" introduction and announcement. Reload Nebraska is a campaign outlining a four-year statewide plan to increase pheasant and quail numbers in Nebraska.

The plan adopts an aggressive strategy for improving available wildlife habitat; establishing new, high quality nesting cover and brood-rearing habitat; expanding wildlife habitat delivery systems and offering increased habitat education and training for landowners. The goal of Reload Nebraska is to raise $20 million to establish and improve 1.1 million acres of wildlife habitat on private and public land in the state. Osborne, along with staff from Pheasants Forever, will make the "Reload Nebraska" announcement at 9 AM.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:21 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

FAIRFAX, VA. — Open Range Day is the latest program offered by the National Rifle Association’s Disabled Shooting Services. The event is April 11, 2009 at Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Phoenix, Arizona. The day focuses on introductory shooting for people with physical disabilities and will offer shotgun, rifle, pistol, and air rifle instruction.

Disabled Shooting Services Manager Vanessa Warner expects around 80 participants for the inaugural event. “This is a pilot program for what we hope to expand to a national program,” Warner said. “The response has been huge, from folks who would like to participate to manufacturers who want to make donations or loans of equipment.”

Warner has secured the support of Colt Defense, Ruger Firearms, White Flyer Target, Remington, Kowa Optimed, Birchwood Casey, Davidson’s, Beeman, and Lapua. “We’re still accepting door prize donations,” Warner said.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:15 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Today’s vote on Senate Bill 1257 was delayed once again.  The bill could be voted on by the full Senate as soon as tomorrow, Tuesday, February 3.  Thanks to your dedicated action and calls, gun-grabbing advocates are scrambling to find votes for SB1257.  

SB1257 would impose sweeping restrictions on our Second Amendment rights and set the stage for a ban on all private firearm sales in Virginia.  Senate Bill 1257 would require that all firearms transactions taking place at gun shows be subjected to background checks, even those occurring between family and friends. Any violations would be a felony and could result in the loss of your gun rights.
 
If passed, this bill will set the stage for a ban on all private firearms sales in Virginia that don’t go through a dealer, as gun ban advocates will no doubt call for a ban on private sales as well.
 
The bill would also require gun show promoters to register anyone wishing to sell a firearm at a gun show, including private citizens, as a “vendor”.  Gun show promoters would be required to maintain that registry for four years following the date of the gun show and transmit the name and address of any “vendors” (anyone selling a firearm) to law enforcement. The names and addresses of those selling a firearm at a gun show would be available to the public.  

YOUR CALLS ARE WORKING!  It is imperative that you immediately contact your State Senator at their Richmond office at (804) 698-7410 or (804) 698-1470 and ask them to oppose Senate Bill 1257.  More contact information for your State Senator can be found by clicking here.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:12 PM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

The Salt Lake International Sportsmen's Exposition will feature nearly 500 exhibitors when it visits the South Towne Exposition Center March 12 - 15, 2009. Filling the entire quarter-million-sqare-foot facility, the 11th annual ISE will spotlight products and services for anglers, hunters, boaters and off-roaders. Hundreds of lodges, guides and adventure-outfitting experts will be available to answer questions and book vacations to destinations nearby, in Alaska and Canada or around the world. Wildlife art and lifestyle furnishings are also showcased. More than a dozen outdoor clubs will offer newcomers and experts alike local knowledge and contacts for getting outdoors to enjoy a wide range of activities. Hands-on features for the entire family, including several contests, make this a one-a-year, too-big-to-miss event. 

The ISE will spotlight new features, presentations, tons of products for sale, and perhaps most importantly, a gathering place for each of us to remember the good times, even while we plan for the next one. Check out some of what's new right now at www.SportsExpos.com   or visit www.youtube.com/ISEtv.

Thursday & Friday, 12n-9pm

Saturday, 10a-9p
Sunday, 10a-5p

Tickets available at www.SportsExpos.com or at the gate.

Free onsite parking.

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 12:05 AM | 0 COMMENT | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Provided by Butch Manasse, Butch Manasse Outdoor Adventures

      
I am not much of a preacher, although I used to  be a pretty fair hand at court room trials, before I quit lawyering to  pursue my dreams. However, hunting is a sport I and my family have devoted  much of our lives to. Therefor I am hoping you will spare me some of your  valuable time to read what follows. I think it is important, and forgive me  if I step on any toes! My intent is only to stir you.
 
Joan and  I attended the SCI convention banquet on Saturday night, Jan, 24, 2009, in  Reno, and we were privileged to listen to an address from none other than  Antonin Scalia, the well known US SUPREME COURT Justice. It turns out he is  a hunter; even having an elk head hanging in his Supreme Court Chambers! Our  kind of guy!  He talked about carrying his .22 rifle (cased) on the NY  subways as a kid, to get to his rifle matches. He pointed out that such  conduct now is no longer socially acceptable- and he expressed grave concern  that the general populace has shifted its' views on guns so far away from  what was the norm just  a short 40 or so years ago! And of course he is  correct.
 
He then went on to make a point that deeply resonated  with me; namely that if we allow hunting to become an elitist sport- a rich  mans or wealthy man's sport only - then hunting is doomed. He pointed to  what has just happened in England with the recent loss of fox hunting.   In England, the general populace had long been unable to participate  (high cost- low access)-- and the inevitable result was that support fell  away for the sport, until the majority no longer cared one way or the other  about it!! He warned we cannot let that happen to us in the US! General  public apathy will doom our sport.

Justice Scalia sounded a bell  that is still ringing in my ears! His two fold message: Make sure there is  plenty of public access to decent hunting areas; and secondly get kids  involved at every possible opportunity. If we fail to keep the interest  of the general public- both our sport and our gun rights will inevitably  suffer! It is beyond argument. And folks- we are very much losing the  battle.

Right now,  we all share the blame.  No insult  intended, but it is long past time to wake up! We routinely purchase prime  hunting areas for our own use, and close off the public. We routinely lease  up the same types of areas for personal use; for use by friends; for use by  our "club".   Doing so effectively denies other members of the  public access. We do not do this out of mean spiritedness; we do it so we  have control and better hunting. But the undeniable result is that members  of the general public are shut out. Slowly, unknowingly, unintentionally, we  are shooting ourselves in the foot; and are diminishing the likelihood that   young people will retain the desire to hunt. After all, studies have  clearly shown that a major reason people are currently dropping out of our  hunting ranks, is because they have "no place to hunt." Allowing a few  members of the general public to hunt our grounds will cost us  nothing!!
 
Yet we continue to ignore or else just fail to  perceive the access problem and it's insidious and virtually inevitable  results. Even the smallest and easiest solutions go ignored. WE NEED TO WAKE  UP!!  By way of example, every year at my booking office, we process  many Wyoming license applications. As part of the application form -- there  is small blank which allows an applicant to make a voluntary donation to the  Access Yes fund. You can donate any amount, even one dollar. Yet not one  applicant in 50 chooses to donate even a lousy dollar to that fund!! Perhaps  the perception is it benefits only residents, which of course is not true-  the access is for the public!

We simply are not perceiving the  problem!! Most of us  are fortunate to have the funds and opportunities  we do. Yet if we are honest, many people are less fortunate. A common  complaint, throughout the US is this: "When I was a kid, I could hunt just  about anywhere!"  While that will never again be true-- we cannot  afford to continue the present trend of less access and fewer participants!!  We must take positive steps, both individually and as a group, to promote  access first; and the involvement of new blood second.
 
I  personally have been dimly cognizant of the problem, but Justice Scalia's  observations have really crystallized my awareness! I expect most of us have  never seriously considered the consequences of poor access. But it is also  understandable as I suspect most of us have remained unaware of the  repercussions associated with lack of access.  I now firmly believe  that every single hunter and client of ours MUST realize that we absolutely  have to fund general public access! Failure to do so is just not an  option!!!!!!!!
 
Failure to take action to correct this problem  means that ultimately our future kids and grand kids, will find their  hunting rights and gun rights gone. And once gone--they will never come  back! If the majority of the general public is foreclosed from decent  hunting areas; if kids are not aggressively sought after and properly  trained in woodmanship, conservation, arms and hunting; then the public will  eventually become apathetic toward the sport we all love and cherish.  Without a general consensus of support by the general public, our rights  will just dissolve over time.
 
Moreover, animals will suffer  greatly if hunters cease to buy licenses. It is our license funds and  special excise taxes; and our trophy fees and the like, which have saved our  American, Asian and African wildlife from virtual extinction. Without  hunters, the funds will dry up, and so will the game we love so see and  hunt.
 
WE- MEANING YOU AND I -- AND EVERY SINGLE FRIEND OF OURS  --HAS AN AFFIRMATIVE DUTY TO ACTIVELY CONTRIBUTE FUNDS (MONEY!) AND OUR TIME  TO PURCHASE AND SUPPLY ACCESS!! LIKEWISE TO INSURE THAT YOUNG PEOPLE GET  INVOLVED!  FAILURE WILL ULTIMATELY DOOM OUR SPORT AND VERY POSSIBLY  WILDLIFE ITSELF!
 
My hope is that I can motivate and challenge  some of the thousands of clients that we try to help and serve every year.  My hope is that every one of you who reads this will make yourself a  promise. The promise I am asking each of you to make is not all that big a  thing. I am asking each and every one of you to do TWO  things:

First- I ask every one of you (and myself especially) to  promise yourself --- and your children and grandchildren and fellow  hunters--- that you will make a donation of at least $100 per year, every  year for the rest of your life - to some fund that purchases public access.  I think almost every state has such programs in place. If not- send it to a  state that does! Most (but not all) of us will not suffer hugely from doing  so- but the potential benefits may go on for a hundred years! If you cannot  afford that sum do whatever you can afford, please. Love your sport enough  to do this.

Second- I want each one of you to promise  yourself and your grandchildren and fellow sportsmen - that you will  introduce at least one youngster (or an adult) a year to the great out of  doors - take them fishing, take them hunting, take them shooting, take them  hiking- but for gosh sakes-TAKE THEM!! Introduce one new kid (or an adult)  every year to our sport!  If you are like I am, there are very few  things in our lives that can move us so deeply as watching the sun rise over  the wilderness; or listening to the gravelly growl of a big bull elk; or  hearing the sweet sound of a woodcock's mating flight; or the joy of a  squirrels chatter. Please, --- please, do this in remembrance of those who  taught you to love the outdoors. Make it your legacy to Pass it  on!

Lastly, if you believe in any of what I have suggested, then I  ask you to please email me once in a while. Send me the pictures and reports  of your efforts. I will post them to our web site so we can all take pride  in our mutual efforts!!!  I hereby pledge myself to make this a goal of  my life, for the rest of my life. Please join me, for the sake of our  future!
 
Butch Manasse  

Butch Manasse Outdoor Adventures

PO Box  20403 

Cheyenne, Wyoming  82003 

307-637-5495

POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 10:23 PM | 2 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST

Sunday, February 1, 2009

It all began with David, Taylor’s Dad, a man who loves to hunt. When he and I got married and talked about having children he told me that the first outfit our child would wear would be a little camo outfit. Our first child was a boy, Joshua, and David did what he said he was going to do. He bought a camo sleeper outfit for Josh. Boy was he proud, a son and a little hunter in the making. Three years later we had the arrival of a precious little girl named Taylor Rather.

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POSTED BY KEVIN C PAULSON AT 09:29 PM | 3 COMMENTS | LINKS TO THIS POST