EPIC Outdoor Game Fair

Tucson, Arizona --(Ammoland.com)-  While fun in the great outdoors will be a centerpiece of the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair, the event will shine a spotlight on the conservation and education leadership of hosts Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) and Quail Unlimited (QU) and their conservation partners.

The event will feature displays of conservation organizations including the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Ducks Unlimited, Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation, as well as SCIF’s Sensory Safari, and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ two-hour Hunter Education review course.

In addition there will be numerous seminars, shooting demonstrations and appearances by authorities from across the outdoor industry. The EPIC Outdoor Game Fair will run September 23-25, 2011 at Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club in Douglasville, Georgia.

“With so many great hands-on activities at the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair, participants will have so much fun they won’t even realize they’re learning,” said Joe Hosmer, President of SCIF. “Without sharing a conservation ethic and educating people about fish, wildlife and the natural world, we can’t expect to foster a love for the outdoors or our sporting traditions. That’s the real goal of this event.”

Conservation and education are a key part of the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair because proceeds from the event support Safari Club International Foundation’s (SCIF) efforts to promote science–based conservation through wildlife research, capacity building in governments, youth and teacher education, and humanitarian programs that show the importance of hunting in society. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these efforts and recent expenditures have exceeded $5 million annually. SCIF works very closely with many other conservation organizations and many of these partners will also be hosting displays in The Conservation Pavilion at Game Fair.

Educational seminars will go on throughout the weekend in every one of the activity villages. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will be offering a two-hour Hunter Education course on Sunday, September 25 from 12:30 to 2:30 pm. This 2-hour review course is for hunter education students that have successfully completed either the CD-ROM course or any of the three online courses. Scott Linden will present his popular Bird Hunting Boot Camp, Bill Oyster will be teaching participants how to construct their own custom bamboo fly rod, C.J. Buck of Buck Knives will provide information about knives and their care, and G.O. and Haley Heath of Family Traditions will offer insights on our outdoor traditions. In addition, the Georgia DNR will offer seminars on backyard birding and the snakes of Georgia. EarthQuest’s Birds of Prey village will have regular seminars on falconry and raptors. The Equestrian Village will be constantly busy with demonstrations of various riding disciplines and clinics by top instructors including renowned hunter and equitation trainer, Anna Mullin, and competitors such as Jessie Kuka, world record holder in cowboy mounted shooting.

At the shooting village, there will be instruction by National Sporting Clays Association instructors as well as demonstrations from some of the best shooters in the country. Mossberg’s Red White & Proud Tour featuring Xtreme Sport Shooter Patrick Flanigan will provide fast-paced shooting excitement. Also shooting each day will be Benelli’s Scott Matthews, an amazing freestyle shooter known as “The Sure Shot.”

There will be so much to do and see at the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair that the entire family will be kept busy and learning all weekend long. Time is running out to buy your discounted tickets that are only available online. Go to the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair website (www.epicgamefair.org) to buy them today. As a thank you to our troops serving our nation, active military personnel will receive the same online discount onsite when they present their identification.

Get regular updates on the event blog, EPICGameFairBlog.org, Facebook, Facebook.com/EPICOutdoorGameFair and Twitter, Twitter.com/EPICGameFair.

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these causes around the world. Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more information.

Quail Unlimited is the oldest national, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the management of America’s wild quail. Known as “America’s Leader In Quail Conservation SM,” QU’s overall vision is to restore America’s quail populations for future generations. The organization’s core values include the wise stewardship of our land and its resources, and the continuation of our proud heritage of conservation, therefore, leaving a legacy and firm foundation for our youth and families to build upon.

Safari Club International Foundation

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) testified today in front of the U.S. House of Representatives Fisheries, Wildlife, Oceans and Insular Affairs Subcommittee of the House Natural Resources Committee in support of H.R. 50, the Multinational Species Conservation Funds Reauthorization Act of 2011 which would extend funding for important conservation projects until the year 2016.

“It was an honor to testify before the committee today, and I hope that our message was clear: that these projects are a needed investment for sustainable wildlife conservation,” said Joseph Hosmer, President of SCIF.

“Support for international conservation projects is necessary for the continued growth of wildlife populations and stability of rural economies throughout many nations of Africa and Asia.”

As a result of the funding from the U.S. Congress, many grants, matching contributions, and in-kind funds have been donated to these programs from other organizations, host countries, and conservation groups.

For example, as a result of the 2009 Congressional appropriation of $2 million for the African Elephant Conservation Fund, over $11.2 million in matching funds were received from outside sources and went to fund 33 African elephant projects.

About SCIF
Safari Club International Foundation is an international non-profit 501(c)(3). SCIF’s mission is to support and promote hunting as a major benefit for wildlife conservation and the sustainable use of wildlife and to fund and manage worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian services. Learn more at: www.safariclubfoundation.org.

Becoming an SCI Member
Joining Safari Club International is the best way to be an advocate for continuing our hunting heritage and supporting worldwide sustainable use conservation, wildlife education and humanitarian services. JOIN NOW: www.safariclub.org/Join.

Safari Club Internationa

Washington, D.C. –-(Ammoland.com)- Safari Club International (SCI) moved forward today in its fight to represent hunters in the constitutional challenge to wolf delisting legislation.

The motion filed today by SCI, together with the National Rifle Association (NRA), asks Judge Donald Molloy of the U.S. District Court for Montana to reconsider his decision to exclude SCI and NRA from the latest lawsuit over the status of the wolves in the Northern Rocky Mountains.

After Congress passed a law directing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reissue the 2009 rule delisting the wolves of Montana, Idaho and portions of Oregon, Utah and Washington, two groups of plaintiffs brought suit, challenging the constitutionality of the new legislation. Judge Molloy denied intervention to the suit to all applicants, including the states of Idaho and Montana as well as non-governmental groups such as SCI and NRA. The judge decided that the federal government would adequately represent the interests of all.

Today, SCI and NRA asked the court to reconsider its intervention ruling. SCI and NRA presented the court with evidence that the government could not sufficiently represent their interests, in the form of unique and essential arguments that were absent from the government’s own briefing. SCI and NRA intend to use these arguments in defense of the constitutionality of the wolf delisting law.

“SCI is committed to representing our members and the hunting community generally in this latest challenge to wolf delisting,” said SCI President Kevin Anderson. “With our long and consistent history in wolf litigation and our knowledge of federal and environmental law, we deserve a seat at the table to help defend Congress’ efforts to end the prolonged and unnecessary battle to recognize wolf recovery and return the species to state management.”

Contact: Nelson Freeman, Media@safariclub.org

Safari Club International – First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s approximately 200 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 106 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

About the Hunters’ Defense Fund:
Safari Club International Hunters’ Defense Fund supports the important advocacy, conservation and legal work keeping hunters afield and promoting hunting worldwide. Donations to the Hunters’ Defense Fund have a direct impact on our freedom to hunt, wildlife conservation policy and important legislative, regulatory and legal issues. DONATE NOW: www.safariclub.org/hunterdefense

Becoming an SCI Member:
Joining Safari Club International is the best way to be an advocate for continuing our hunting heritage and supporting worldwide sustainable use conservation, wildlife education and humanitarian services. JOIN NOW: www.safariclub.org/Join.

Safari Club International Foundation

Washington, DC –-(Ammoland.com)- Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is honored to announce their new partnership with the International Conservation Caucus Foundation (ICCF). SCIF has joined the ICCF as a member of the prestigious ICCF Conservation Council.

“SCIF is extremely excited to join as a leading partner with a foundation so completely dedicated to conservation like the ICCF,” said SCIF President Joseph Hosmer.

“SCIF is proud to represent the sustainable-use community on the Conservation Council. With ICCF’s emphasis on market-based solutions to our global conservation challenges, we believe that we are natural partners to promote the sustained-use and management of natural resources.”

The ICCF Conservation Council is an association of public and private sector representatives dedicated to international conservation. Members share a common desire to implement conservation projects safeguarding wildlife and biodiversity, protecting and restoring habitats, and generating economic opportunities and social benefits for surrounding communities that are the long-term stewards of local natural resources.

Through strategic affiliation, SCIF and ICCF will advance international conservation and sustainability initiatives with balanced, sustainable solutions.

Contact: Nelson Freeman, Media@safariclub.org

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these causes around the. Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more.

About ICCF:
The International Conservation Caucus Foundation is an international non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Inspired by the belief that conservation is a fundamental component to sustainable development, poverty alleviation, conflict avoidance, good governance, and regional security, ICCF encourages American policymakers, businesses, NGOs, and foreign governments to expand their leadership in the world to promote sound, long-term policies of sustainable land, water, and biodiversity management. Learn more at: www.iccfoundation.us.

EPIC Outdoor Game Fair

Tucson, Arizona --(Ammoland.com)- Advanced purchase tickets for the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair are now available online!

Hosted by Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) and Quail Unlimited (QU), EPIC Outdoor Game Fair will provide hands-on activities bringing outdoor sporting Education, Participation, Instruction and Competition to families, youth and individual enthusiasts. The three-day event is September 23-25, 2011 at the Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club just outside of Atlanta, GA.

Participants that purchase tickets in advance will find day passes on the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair website that are cheaper than onsite admission prices, and discounted 3-day event packages are only available online. In addition, registration for some of the seminars, shooting events and other special events will only be available through the event’s website.

“The EPIC Outdoor Game Fair’s website provides a quick and easy way for people to get tickets for this unique and exciting event,” commented Joe Hosmer, President of SCIF.

“Anyone with an interest in the great outdoors should plan on being at Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club this September. From shooting to archery to fishing to ATV’s to nature education to music and so much more, Game Fair is going to have it all. It is a can’t-miss event, and online ticket sales will allow you to get your passes locked in early!”

EPIC Outdoor Game Fair is going to have a first-rate lineup of activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts with all levels of experience. Shooting Sportsman Magazine, Beretta, Laser Shot, Crosman and John Rigby & Co are headlining the Shooting Village that will include shotgun sports, shooting simulators and airgun venues, expert instruction, and the unique opportunity to field test fine guns that will be available for sale onsite. In addition, Marty Fischer has designed a new sporting clays course at Foxhall that will be one of the finest in the country.

The Canine Village is sponsored by Eukanuba and will feature a Super Retriever Series trial, Big Air Competition, “ask the pro” sessions and numerous opportunities for hands-on training seminars with the industry’s top trainers. Mossy Oak is sponsoring the Archery village that will include 3-D courses, sporting arrows and other archery sports. A Birds of Prey area, sponsored by Earthquest, Inc., will include live displays of owls, falcons, hawks and other raptors, as well as daily flight demonstrations and seminars on falconry and wildlife rehabilitation. In addition, there will be fishing, ATV, and equestrian villages, plus nature activities, numerous vendors, concerts and much, much more.

“Every week, new and even more exciting sponsors and exhibitors are getting lined up for EPIC Outdoor Game Fair,” said Bill Bowles, President of QU. “Even though this is the first year for this event, it is shaping up to be the southeast’s largest, hands-on outdoors festival. Get your tickets and make your travel plans now so you don’t miss the first of many years of EPIC Outdoor Game Fair fun!”

There are many places online with up-to-the minute information about all of the exciting events and seminars that are being planned for the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair. Besides the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair website, you can also get regular updates at the event blog, EPICGameFairBlog.org and follow us on Facebook, Facebook.com/EPICOutdoorGameFair and Twitter, Twitter.com/@EPICGameFair

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these causes around the world. Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more.

Quail Unlimited is the oldest national, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the management of America’s wild quail. Known as “America’s Leader In Quail Conservation SM,” our overall vision is to restore America’s quail populations for future generations. Our core values include the wise stewardship of our land and its resources, and the continuation of our proud heritage of conservation, therefore, leaving a legacy and firm foundation for our youth and families to build upon.

Safari Club International Foundation

JACKSONVILLE, Florida --(Ammoland.com)- Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) and The WILD Foundation (WILD) announced that they are working together to combat rhino poaching in South Africa through the Rhino Informant Incentive Fund (RIIF).

The RIIF provides financial incentives to economically underdeveloped rural communities where rhino poachers reside.

Local individuals will act as informants, to assist local law enforcement in apprehending poachers and confiscation of horns, weapons, or equipment.

“SCIF has successfully concentrated many of our financial resources into anti-poaching efforts in the last few years,” said SCIF President Joseph Hosmer. “We are excited to work with The WILD Foundation through our contribution to the Rhino Informant Incentive Fund. By working collaboratively against international poaching we will ensure sustainable-use conservation and hunting can continue.”

“We already see results with the first prosecution, validating further investment. The support by SCIF is instrumental in this regard, and is being matched by local, privately donated funds within South Africa. Thank you to the hunting community for continuing your role in sustainable use conservation,” stated WILD President Vance Martin.

“SCIF is ready to continue our anti-poaching projects throughout Africa and we hope that members of the hunting fraternity will consider making a donation to SCIF, so that we can increase our investments there,” concluded Hosmer.

Recent poaching has again been attributed to a growing international demand for rhino horn in Far East Asia where it is used in traditional medicine. Professional criminal syndicates are using technology to their advantage, such as helicopters, with the aid of night vision and GPS tracking equipment. WILD’s founder and SCIF’s 2008 International Conservationist of the Year, Dr. Ian Player is leading the grassroots effort in South Africa to help combat the criminal syndicates.

To make a donation to SCIF please contact SCIF’s Development Department at (520) 620-1220 ext. 485 and make your tax deductible gift today.

Contact: Nelson Freeman, media@safriclub.org or Emily Loose, emily@wild.org

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these causes around the world. Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more information.

The WILD Foundation – As the hub of the global wilderness conservation movement, The WILD Foundation (a Boulder, Colo based 501(c)3 nonprofit organization) is the only international organization dedicated entirely to wilderness protection around the world. Our vision is to protect at least half of the planet’s land and water in an interconnected way to support all life on Earth – Nature Needs Half™. www.wild.org.

Safari Club International Foundation

Tucson, Arizona --(Ammoland.com)- In an effort to actively engage families in the great outdoors, leaders of Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) and Quail Unlimited (QU) announced that they will be hosting the first annual EPIC Outdoor Game Fair.

The event will be held September 23-25, 2011 in Douglasville, Georgia at the Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club. Modeled after European game fairs, EPIC Outdoor Game Fair will provide hands-on activities bringing outdoor sporting Education, Participation, Instruction and Competition to families, youth and individual enthusiasts – hence, the name EPIC Outdoor Game Fair.

“If we aren’t bringing in more people to the outdoor sports and making it easier for them to get engaged, then we’re not doing our jobs,” stated Joseph H. Hosmer, President of SCIF.

“We expect this game fair to be the largest event of its kind to support the future of outdoor sporting traditions in the United States.”

EPIC Outdoor Game Fair will feature numerous hands-on opportunities as well as seminars from the industry’s most recognized experts. Foxhall’s 1,100 acres along the Chattahoochee River will be transformed into “villages” featuring shooting, archery, fishing and fly fishing, boating and kayaking, equestrian, dog training, ATV use and more. Vendors from each of these outdoor recreational interests will represent the finest manufacturers in the world, including many fine gun exhibits, and outstanding food and beverage options throughout the three-day event. Sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities are still available.

“From beginner to expert, every level will have a something to learn and do through the EPIC content the Game Fair offers,” QU President Bill Bowles commented. “Families will find the Game Fair an outstanding opportunity to spend time in a world class resort setting while giving every member of the family time to experience the outdoor activities they know or want to learn more about.”

“I would like to thank the following sponsors: Beretta, Eukanuba, Laser SHOT, Shooting Sportsman Magazine, and John Rigby & Co. Gunmakers, Inc. for their commitment to partner with QU and SCIF in our inaugural year of the EPIC Game Fair,” concluded Cam Harris, Chairman of QU.

The EPIC Outdoor Game Fair website launched this week with more detailed information about the event and venue as well as the hosts and sponsors. The site will grow and expand to be the one-stop place for information about the event and for ticket sales. In addition to the website, the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair Blog will provide a social networking hub to receive regular updates as event planning continues. www.EPICGameFair.org

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these causes around the. Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more.

Quail Unlimited is the oldest national, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the management of America’s wild quail. Known as “America’s Leader In Quail Conservation SM,” our overall vision is to restore America’s quail populations for future generations. Our core values include the wise stewardship of our land and its resources, and the continuation of our proud heritage of conservation, therefore, leaving a legacy and firm foundation for our youth and families to build upon.

Safari Club Internationa

Washington, D.C. --(AmmoLand.com)- Safari Club International (SCI) and the New Jersey State Federation of Sportsman’s Clubs Inc. (Federation) filed suit yesterday in New Jersey to force action on black bear management.

Despite the best efforts of the state’s Fish and Game Council (Council), New Jersey’s Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has refused to approve a new comprehensive black bear management policy (Black Bear Policy) that includes hunting as a management strategy. Under New Jersey law, without a policy in place, the State cannot hold a black bear hunt. The Commissioner’s inaction has lead to a drastic increase in bear incidents state-wide since the last bear hunt in 2005.

SCI President Larry Rudolph said, “A well regulated hunt is essential for the sound and responsible management of black bear in New Jersey and for the safety of the general public. The goal of our lawsuit is simply to put legal pressure on the Commissioner and the Council to take the necessary action to adopt a Black Bear Policy. Forcing action on a policy will allow the Council — the people entrusted under New Jersey law to manage wildlife — to decide whether a hunt is both the appropriate means of managing the state’s bear population and a valued recreational experience.”

Legal Background:
In 2006, SCI and the Federation went to court to defend the Black Bear Policy that was adopted in 2005 because then-DEP Commissioner Lisa Jackson and Governor Jon Corzine abruptly withdrew that policy and cancelled the annual black bear hunt.

In a 2007 decision, the Court questioned the Commissioner’s authority to unilaterally withdraw the Black Bear Policy, but nevertheless invalidated the 2005 Policy, finding that it had not been properly adopted in the first place. The actions of the DEP and the court’s ruling left New Jersey with no approved strategies for reducing the state’s growing bear population. The Court directed the Commissioner and Council to work together to formulate a new black bear management policy, and encouraged SCI and the Federation to return to court should the parties reach an impasse. That impasse has now occurred.

Outdoorchannel TV

TEMECULA, Calif. –-(AmmoLand.com)- Outdoor Channel, America’s leader in Outdoor TV, today announced that, alongside Comcast Chattanooga and the Chattanooga Chapter of Safari Club International (SCI), the Company has teamed up with the Chattanooga Community Kitchen for the area’s first annual “Sportsmen Against Hunger” event.

Scheduled for October 20th at the Chattanooga Community Kitchen, local outdoor enthusiasts will join together to serve meals to the hungry. Nearly 250 million meals are served annually via this program, which is active in all 50 states of the U.S., in parts of Canada and in several other countries around the world. Volunteers will be expected to arrive at 9:30 a.m., and the luncheon of venison lasagna and all the trimmings furnished by the Chattanooga Area SCI Chapter is scheduled to begin at approximately 10:45 a.m. The kitchen is expected to serve more than 300 people at this event and is located at 727 East 11th Street in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

“Outdoor Channel has a long history of providing community support and service to local charities, outreach groups and volunteer organizations. We’re inspired by the good folks at the Chattanooga Community Kitchen and are excited to expand upon the Company’s ongoing community involvement and humanitarian goodwill efforts,” said Tom Hornish, COO for Outdoor Channel. “’Sportsmen Against Hunger’ is a terrific initiative and one in which Outdoor Channel is happy to participate.”

“Comcast is pleased that the Outdoor Channel has reached out to assist the Chattanooga Community Kitchen. The kitchen provides a tremendous service to those in need, especially the homeless, and the game served is something most of the kitchen’s clients have never had the opportunity to try,” said Laurie Shipley, Public Affairs Manager for Comcast.

“Outdoor Channel has long been a sponsor of Safari Club International (SCI), and our Chapter appreciates the opportunity to work with them and Comcast on this project,” said Bill Swan, Chapter President. ”The local SCI Chapter represents more than 100 members and has been active in supporting the area Wildlife Officers with donations of equipment, donating money towards the Tennessee Elk Restoration Project, supporting the local zoo and the local animal shelter.”

The Chattanooga Community Kitchen is a freestanding social service agency focused on meeting needs, with a primary mission to lessen the poverty and despair among the homeless in the City of Chattanooga and to restore dignity and self-reliance.

“Serving more than 130,000 meals each year to our area’s neediest citizens, the Chattanooga Community Kitchen is excited to partner with the Outdoor Channel,” said Jens Christensen, Director of Marketing, Chattanooga Community Kitchen. “Community support is essential to our work with the homeless, and we greatly appreciate this partnership.”

About Outdoor Channel Holdings, Inc.
Outdoor Channel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: OUTD) owns and operates Outdoor Channel, America’s leader in outdoor TV, and Winnercomm Inc., an Emmy Award winning production and interactive company. Outdoor Channel offers programming that captures the excitement of hunting, fishing, shooting, off-road motorsports, adventure and the Western lifestyle and can be viewed on multiple platforms including high definition, video-on-demand, as well as on a dynamic broadband website. Winnercomm Inc. is one of America’s largest and highest quality producers of live sporting events and sports series for cable and broadcast television. Winnercomm also owns and operates the patented Skycam and CableCam aerial camera systems which provide dramatic overhead camera angles for major sports events, including college and NFL football. For more information please visit www.outdoorchannel.com.

About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (www.comcast.com) is the nation’s leading provider of entertainment, information and communications products and services. With 23.9 million cable customers, 15.3 million high-speed Internet customers, and 7.0 million Comcast Digital Voice customers, Comcast is principally involved in the development, management and operation of broadband cable systems and in the delivery of programming content.

Comcast’s content networks and investments include E! Entertainment Television, Style Network, The Golf Channel, VERSUS, G4, PBS KIDS Sprout, TV One, ten Comcast SportsNets networks and Comcast Interactive Media, which develops and operates Comcast’s Internet businesses, including Comcast.net (www.comcast.net). Comcast also has a majority ownership in Comcast-Spectacor, whose major holdings include the Philadelphia Flyers NHL hockey team, the Philadelphia 76ers NBA basketball team and two large multipurpose arenas in Philadelphia.

About Safari Club International
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s 187 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page http://www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

About Chattanooga Area Chapter
Founded in 1999, the Chattanooga Area Chapter, which represents about 100 area members, has been a supporter of the Chattanooga Zoo, The City Animal Shelter, The Susan Korman Breast Cancer Facility, a shelter for abused women in the North Georgia, The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and many other community projects. They can be visited at www.chattanoogachaptersci.org.

About Chattanooga Community Kitchen
The Chattanooga Community Kitchen is a freestanding social service agency focused on meeting needs. Our primary goal is to lessen the poverty and despair among the homeless in the City of Chattanooga and to restore dignity and self-reliance to those we serve. In all that we do, we strive to serve the physical, social and spiritual needs of the homeless and less fortunate without expectation of recompense but instead out of love and compassion for mankind.

Safari Club Internationa

Washington, D.C. –-(AmmoLand.com)- Today, Dr. William Moritz from Safari Club International (SCI) testified in support of polar bear conservation and research before the House of Representatives Committee on Natural Resources’ Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife.

At issue is H.R. 1054, Congressman Don Young’s (R-AK) legislation to allow the importation of approximately 42 polar bears that already have been legally hunted in Canada. Before the May 15, 2008 listing of the polar bear as threatened, U.S. citizens could obtain import permits for polar bears hunted from six approved populations — those which the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has found to have a sound and sustainable harvest program. Relying on both science and sound wildlife management principles, SCI explained that allowing these imports would not affect the polar bear populations, but would generate over $40,000 for polar bear research.

Congressman Young’s bill would amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act to specifically allow the import of polar bears that had been hunted from approved populations prior to the listing of the species under the Endangered Species Act. The decision by the FWS banning imports deprived numerous individuals of the full value of their rightful property. The bears currently sit in cold storage in Canada. H.R. 1054 would help rectify this unfortunate situation for the 40-plus hunters affected by the import ban.

“The harvest of these animals provided important income to local native communities, which encouraged the communities to value the polar bear even more and to better accept science-based quotas on the appropriate levels of sustainable take,” said SCIF Director of Conservation Dr. Bill Moritz during today’s hearing.

What also gets lost in the rhetoric about climate change and polar bears are the facts that polar bears number between 20,000 and 25,000 worldwide and the import of sport-hunted trophies does not increase mortality, as tags not used by sport hunters are used for subsistence purposes by the local native communities.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) also testified today. FWS has indicated their possible support for HR 1054 if it only allowed importation of those polar bears for which an import application had been submitted prior to the May 15, 2008 ban.

SCI President Larry Rudolph said, “Under U.S. law, import permits provide important conservation program funding of $1,000 per permit. In the last 13 years, U.S. hunters have contributed almost $1 million dollars to polar bear research through these fees. The permits sought for bears taken before the import ban went in effect would add another $42,000 to current conservation efforts. If anti-hunting organizations like the Humane Society and others are against conservation funding, then you’d have to question their true interest to begin with.”

SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s approximately 190 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

About:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s 189 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

West Virginia DNR

West Virginia - -(AmmoLand.com)- Conservation Officer Warren “Ed” Goodson has been selected as the West Virginia Conservation Officer of the Year for 2009, according to Col.

David Murphy, Division of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Section Chief. Goodson was hired by DNR in 2002, is stationed at the DNR District 5 office in Nitro and is assigned to Boone County.

The award is given by the Shikar-Safari Club International in recognition of the officer recommended by his department to have done the most outstanding job in the enforcement of the state game laws, the protection of wildlife and the implementation of conservation programs during the past year.

“I commend Ed for taking the passion that he has had as an avid sportsman and outdoor enthusiast to a career in conservation. I believe that when an individual has passion and commitment toward his work, good things will happen. Ed has shown that dedication through his work as an outstanding employee at the DNR,” said Gov. Joe Manchin.

In a letter of notification to Officer Goodson, Col. Murphy wrote: “You were recommended for this honor by your supervisors because of your positive attitude toward your job and the respect you have earned from various sportsmen groups, law enforcement agencies and the public. Your exemplary effort to teach and assist the state’s youth has not gone unnoticed. Your attendance at Senior Conservation Camp, teaching Hunter Education classes, and participation in events such as Kids Fishing Day and Archery in the Schools illustrate your commitment to the enrichment of children.”

Goodson explains how he got involved in DNR law enforcement:

“I grew up in southern West Virginia and, as a lifelong hunter and fisherman, I knew early on that I wanted to pursue a career in natural resources. I always envisioned myself as a game warden but thought it would never happen.

“I attended West Virginia University and earned a degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Resources. In 1999, I was offered a position with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission in New Bern, NC. It was a fulfilling career, but I started to miss the mountains back home in West Virginia. I then decided to start the application process with the WVDNR Law Enforcement Section and was accepted.

“My first duty assignment was in Kanawha County. For a new officer, Kanawha County offered all aspects of what the job of a conservation officer is all about. I was involved with boat patrols, spotlighting patrols, bear bait investigations, trout squads, litter enforcement and general game investigations. In October of 2006, I was granted a transfer to Boone County. I consider myself very fortunate to have the career that I have and to work with a great group of officers.”

Safari Club Internationa

TUCSON, Arizona --(TheOutdoorWire.com)- The Trophy Records Department of the Safari Club International announces its Field Scoring Kit, which provides hunters with a simple, compact way to accurately score their animals in the field.

“SCI members have expressed that they wish they had recorded information like the measurements of horns and antlers while on the hunt,” said Doug Luger, Director of Trophy Records at SCI. “Documenting details such as scores of the trophies and details of the hunt is very important to SCI members. We wanted to give them a tool they could use out in the field that would answer their questions regarding scoring trophies.”

The SCI Field Scoring Kit eliminates the curiosity all sportsmen face after a successful hunt: what will my trophy score? Designed for easy use by both the novice hunter and the seasoned veteran, the kit includes a field scoring book for big game species in North and South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. It also contains a pen, calculator, multiple score sheets for each species, an official SCI measuring tape, cable and clip, an official SCI decimal point conversion card, an Outdoor Edge 3 inch folding knife, and an SCI Scoring CD.

SCI recognizes more than 100 Big Game species word wide and no matter where or what you hunt the Field Scoring Kit will come in handy. Some of the species a hunter can record with the Field Scoring Kit are white-tail deer, red stag, kudu, elk, rhino, chamois, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, pudu, moose, caribou, cape buffalo, crocodiles, wildebeest, and many more.

If you’re interested in ordering the SCI Field Scoring Kit, please visit to the Safari Club International’s online store at www.scifirstforhunters.org/static/shop/

About:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s approximately 190 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

International Hunter Education Association Foundation

Federal Heights, CO - -(AmmoLand.com)- The International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) Foundation Benefit Auction to raise funds to help hunter education programs nationwide has added over 30 new items to the auction. The auction is being conducted in partnership with www.GunBroker.com.

In recent days, IHEAF and GunBroker.com have added over 30 new items to the auction-all are products of interest to hunters, shooters and those who spend time in the outdoors. Included are: five more rifles, a 3-day Argentina Dove hunt

From SCI, tickets for a 3-event NASCAR package at Talladega Superspeedway from Realtree, a Laser Shot home theater shooting simulator system, hunting coats, a second guided Florida fishing trip, a Bushnell: rangefinder, weather monitor and GPS with XM radio/weather, a case of custom Hornady ammunition, Coleman outdoor equipment, two more Benchmade knives, and more.

The bidding for one group of outdoor equipment and gear currently posted will expire on Sunday, July 20. Interested bidders must watch individual items as they expire at specific times during the day. Some of the merchandise in this group includes a Columbia Quad hunting parka, a Sentry 24-gun safe, a case of Hornady ammo, a PSE compound bow, a Bushnell trail cam, a Benchmade knife, an Alpen spotting scope and more.

Several “Extended Listing” items, running throughout the month of July include a one-of-a-kind, IHEA 60th Anniversary Henry Golden Boy .22LR with special laser engraving, a Mossberg side-by-side 12 ga. shotgun and a Zingelani Safari’s 7-day African safari for two people-with three plains game species included in the base cost.

Proceeds from the auction go to the IHEA Foundation to help fund hunter education programs nationwide. GunBroker.com has generously included IHEA in their “Treasures & Traditions” Auction, a part of their Heritage Partner Program.

Visit GunBroker.com to bid.

About:
IHEA is affiliated with the Association of Fish and Wildlife agencies. Goals of this group include serving as the primary resource for information on hunter education; promoting hunter education by fostering cooperative efforts between government agencies, organized groups and industry; striving for constant improvement in hunter education programs; and providing opportunities for the exchange of related ideas, knowledge and experiences.

For more information about IHEA, visit www.ihea.com .

Safari Club Internationa

Western Great Lakes - -(AmmoLand.com)- SCI today filed a motion to intervene in litigation concerning the Endangered Species Act (ESA) delisting of the Western Great Lakes wolves.

SCI’s action comes in response to five animal rights groups that have challenged the delisting. The groups want wolves back on the endangered species list immediately and have filed a motion for a preliminary injunction. If the motion succeeds, wolves will be returned to federal management for the duration of the litigation. SCI is actively preparing a defense to that motion.

SCI is a leader in the hunting community in litigation concerning the ESA. It is the preeminent organization in litigation related to hunting, and has defended wolf delisting and state management in each of the cases brought to challenge the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s efforts to recognize the recovered status of wolves. This recent intervention effort marks the sixth lawsuit in which SCI has participated.

SCI’s goal is to preserve management of this predator species with the individual states in which wolf populations are having an impact on other wildlife species’ numbers and behavior. SCI is also currently participating in two lawsuits to defend the delisting of the grizzly bear population in the Yellowstone area.

SCI President Merle Shepard stated: “The science is clear. The wolves of the Western Great Lakes have merited delisting for years and the states are more than ready to assume management authority of the wolves within their boundaries. In 2007 and 2008, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin demonstrated their ability to manage and conserve their own wolves. SCI will show the court that the states are the best managers for their own recovered wildlife populations.”

In this effort, SCI is again collaborating with the National Rifle Association of America to provide a powerful voice for the hunting community.

About:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s 189 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation

WASHINGTON D.C --(AmmoLand.com)- The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation is fortunate to have a diverse group of partners within the hunting and fishing community, as well as among those allied industries who serve sportsmen and women. Many of these partners have supported us from the beginning and have shared CSF’s vision of promoting and protecting hunting, fishing and trapping in the political arena.

We are spotlighting those partners who have been instrumental in working alongside CSF in numerous legislative victories during the past two decades. CSF wants to highlight the organizations that have the vision to continue their support in ensuring another 20 years of success for sportsmen on the political playing field. All those who donate generously to support CSF have our sincere thanks.

Safari Club Internationa

This profile is of our friends at Safari Club International.

CSF is proud to recognize Safari Club International for its longstanding support. SCI is a founding supporter of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation and with contributions of nearly $750,000, they continue to recognize the value of organizing pro-sportsmen legislators into federal and state caucuses to defend our outdoor traditions and privileges. Just as important, SCI and its members regularly attend CSF functions such as our annual banquet and auction, Childress “Wine, Wheels and Wildlife” event, Congressional Shoot-Out and NASC Annual Meeting.

CSF President Jeff Crane said, “There isn’t a more supportive group for our programs, events and legislative priorities than SCI. My personal affinity for the organization pales in comparison to my professional affection for SCI as a result of their continued support of CSF.”

Recently, Crane presented SCI with a special award at the 2009 SCI Annual Convention commemorating its years of service and support to CSF, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus and the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses.

“Having CSF as one of our strongest advocates in Washington, DC for the past 20 years has ensured that hunters are represented at the highest level of Congressional leadership,” said SCI President Merle Shepard.

Safari Club International and Safari Club International Foundation and its approximately 190 chapters are contributing time, talent, and financial support to local, national, and international conservation projects. SCI has spent nearly $300 million on hunter advocacy and wildlife conservation since inception. Through direct involvement and partnerships with like-minded organizations, SCI has become a political force in Washington, D.C. and other capitals around the world.

Please visit the SCI web site http://www.safariclub.org to learn about SCI programs and services.

About the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation
With alliances with every major hunting and fishing organization and industry, CSF is the leader in promoting sportsmen’s issues with elected officials.

About the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses
NASC together with state sportsmen’s caucuses are the core of the legislative front protecting and promoting hunting, fishing and sound wildlife management in state legislatures.

TUCSON, AZ – -(AmmoLand.com)- Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) and Mossy Oak are teaming up to help hunters and conservation, including funding of white-tailed deer research at the University of Georgia. Mossy Oak is also the newest SCI Corporate Sponsor, supporting SCI’s mission to protect the freedom to hunt and to promote conservation.

Mossy Oak and the SCI Foundation signed an agreement this week to jointly fund a conservation research project at the world renowned College of Veterinary Medicine’s Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study (SCWDS) at the University of Georgia. The project will investigate reasons for expansion of epizootic hemorrhagic disease viruses (EHDV) and bluetongue viruses (BTV), better define the impacts of these viruses on deer populations, and then develop recommendations to control and curtail spread of the diseases if possible.

“We are seeing new BTV and EHDVs affecting deer in the United States and in recent years have experienced some major mortality events in wild deer populations. At present, we do not know why these events are occurring and do not fully understand their potential impacts on deer management,” said SCWDS scientist Dr. David Stallknecht, who has been studying hemorrhagic disease of deer since the 1980s.

SCIF conservation, education and humanitarian services work is funded with proceeds from its annual convention each January in Reno, Nevada, and through generous support of its exhibitors, donors, advertisers, members and corporate sponsors like Mossy Oak. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million in these three strategic arenas to help hunters and wildlife.

Mossy Oak has a history of giving back to leading causes and programs that support hunters and conservation.

”Conservation is very important to Mossy Oak in that it allows us to live the outdoor lifestyle we love and pass down that love to our children,” said Toxey Haas, Founder and CEO of Mossy Oak. “We’re proud to partner with SCIF in order to provide an educational opportunity that will essentially help maintain healthy deer populations.”

Mossy Oak and SCIF will work with the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study to share the research findings with the hunting public and the appropriate wildlife professionals concerned about maintaining healthy white-tailed deer populations throughout North America. Additional coverage of the research may be seen on future episodes of SCI’s Expedition Safari program on the Outdoor Channel and Mossy Oak’s Hunting the Country.

The SCI Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization that funds and manages programs in North America and overseas dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian services, including such programs as Sportsmen Against Hunger, Sensory Safari, Disabled Hunter and the American Wilderness Leadership School. To donate or to discover more about SCIF, call 877-877-3265 or visit www.safariclubfoundation.org.

About:
Haas Outdoors Inc. is headquartered in West Point, Miss., was established in 1986 and is home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com). Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. Mossy Oak patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide. Haas Outdoors Inc. is the outdoor industry leader in modern camouflage design, international licensing and marketing. Haas Outdoors Inc. markets its services and products under widely recognized brands including: Mossy Oak, BioLogic, Mossy Oak Productions, Native Nurseries and Mossy Oak Properties.

About:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s 189 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

Safari Club Internationa

Washington, DC - -(OutDoorWire.com)- Safari Club International (SCI) commended the decision by Interior Secretary Ken Salazar to affirm the delisting of the gray wolf from the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Salazar’s announcement affirmed a decision reached by the U.S. Fish and Wildife Service, based in a extensive review of the best available science, to remove gray wolves from the list of threatened and endangered species in the western Great Lakes and the northern Rocky Mountain states of Idaho and Montana and parts of Washington, Oregon and Utah.

SCI President Merle Shepard hailed the announcement, saying “This decision is the right one and we commend Secretary Salazar for reaching it so quickly. Delisting the gray wolf came about as a result of years of effort involving the states, tribes, landowners, academic researchers, sportsmen and other conservation groups, the Canadian government and many other partners. All of these stakeholders can breathe a sigh of relief today that our years of effort have not gone down the drain.”

In making the announcement, Secretary Salazar reviewed the numbers behind the decision. “When it was listed as endangered in 1974, the wolf had almost disappeared from the continental United States. Today, we have more than 5,500 wolves, including more than 1,600 in the Rockies,” Salazar said.

Gray wolves were previously listed as endangered in the lower 48 states, except in Minnesota where they were listed as threatened. The Service oversees three separate recovery programs for the gray wolf; each has its own recovery plan and recovery goals based on the unique characteristics of wolf populations in each geographic area. Wolves in other parts of the 48 states, including the Southwest wolf population, remain endangered and are not affected by the actions taken today.

“SCI’s nearly 50,000 members have been waiting for an indicator of how this Administration will handle controversial conservation issues, and we are encouraged by this announcement,” SCI President Shepard said. “We look forward to working with Secretary Salazar and the Interior Department on other conservation issues in the future,” Shepard concluded.

About:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s approximately 190 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

Safari Club International

Tucson, AZ – -(AmmoLand.com)- 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.

One of the biggest highlights of the show was the auction of a deer hunt in Michigan with baseball superstars Kirk Gibson, David Wells and Jake Peavy, which brought in $100,000 to help fund the SCI Foundation’s Disabled Hunter program.

Another highlight this year was the SCI Sportsmen Against Hunger community event, held in conjunction with the Reno chapter of The Salvation Army. In a single evening, more than 1,400 people in need were served meals that included high protein wild game meat donated by SCI members committed to helping the less fortunate.

“The 37th Annual Hunters’ Convention was a success for SCI because our members, exhibitors and donors place a high priority on their passion for hunting, as reflected in their unwavering commitment in coming to Reno and seeing the best there is in the world of hunting. This commitment translates directly into SCI’s strength for 2009 across the spectrum of our advocacy, education, conservation and humanitarian programs,” concluded Merle Shepard, President of SCI.

Avid hunters who are interested in joining SCI and attending the SCI’s next convention in Reno, Nevada, January 20-23, 2010, are invited to discover more at www.safariclub.org.

Contact

[amazon-product alink="0000FF" bordercolor="000000" height="240"]1891588001[/amazon-product]About:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s 189 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

Safari Club Internationa

Reno, Nevada – Safari Club International (SCI) is pleased to announce that Jim Shockey is the 2009 winner of the prestigious C.J. McElroy Award, sponsored by Nikon Sport Optics.

Named for the late founder and chairman emeritus of SCI, the C.J. McElroy Award honors a member of SCI who has, achieved excellence in worldwide hunting, displayed a dedication to the conservation of wildlife, and has a history of service to the global hunting community and to SCI’s goals. Award winners display exemplary ethics in the business of hunting and be committed to SCI’s programs and mission statement. “All of us in SCI leadership offer our congratulations to Jim on this prestigious accomplishment,” said SCI President Merle Shepard.

Jim Shockey hails from British Columbia and is a native of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Shockey learned the love of hunting from his father at an early, and when the outdoor business beckoned, he entered the arena as an outdoor writer. Later, Shockey became an outfitter when he bought guide territory on Vancouver Island.

In the early 1990s, with the advent of hunting shows on cable television, Shockey found he had an easy and natural manner before the camera which landed him a spot on Bill Jordan’s “Realtree Outdoors” where he hosted a weekly segment before getting his own show on the Outdoor Channel. “Jim Shockey’s Hunting Adventures” has since become one of the world’s best-known hunting shows and has helped propel Shockey to celebrity status in the hunting world.

Shockey is also known as a world-class hunter in his own right, is a definitive leader of the muzzleloading contingent, with SCI records for 37 species. SCI’s C.J. McElroy and Professional Hunter of the Year Awards were conferred upon Shockey last week during SCI’s 37th Annual Hunters’ Convention, in Reno, Nevada.

Shockey’s success at communicating the SCI mission and the positive image of hunters is supported by the following sponsors: Thompson/Center, Safari Club International, Stealth Cam, Leupold, Nosler, Caldwell Shooting Supplies, Cannon Safe, Cabela’s, Walker’s Game Ear, Primos, Robinson Outdoors Products, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Tourism Quebec, American Pioneer Powder, Alpine Archery, ARGO, Heater Body Suit, SHE Safari, and Pioneer Log Homes of BC.

About:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s approximately 190 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

Safari Club Internationa

Reno, Nevada – -(AmmoLand.com)- Safari Club International (SCI) is pleased to announce that MaryAnn Sachman is the 2009 winner of the prestigious SCI Diana Award.

Named for the huntress of Roman mythology, the Diana Award recognizes the women of SCI who have excelled in international big game hunting. Award winners have shown exemplary ethics in the field, remained committed to the mission statement of SCI, and have personally given their time and energies to enhance wildlife conservation and education.

MaryAnn Sachman is a lifetime member of SCI and has been a member of the New York Tri-State Chapter for many years, where she has chaired various committees and events. She has served on the SCI Board of Directors as Chapter President and is a member of the SCIF Hunter Legacy 100 Fund.

Under Sachman’s leadership the New York Tri-State Sables donated over $40,000 to organizations and direct need recipients. She has supported rhinos in Zimbabwe, sent thousands of pounds of books to Africa, provided funds to the Girls Scouts of America to visit Africa and has sponsored students and teachers attending the American Wilderness Leadership School.

The chapter also funded programs such as the Roosevelt Sanctuary, the Leithen Valley Trophy Hunts, Zambia Village Project, Disabled Hunter program and Dream Hunt. Under her leadership and vision, the NY Tri-State Chapter is once again growing strong with new members and chapter participation.

The Diana Award was conferred upon Sachman this week during SCI’s 37h Annual Hunters’ Convention, in Reno, Nevada.

Contact:
Nelson Freeman
Public Relations and
Governmental Affairs
(202) 543 – 8733
nfreeman@safariclub.org

About:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s 189 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

Safari Club International Foundation

Tucson, Arizona – Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) will bring the Sensory Safari, its most interactive exhibition and one of its top education programs, to students of the Washoe County School District of Reno, Nevada throughout SCI’s 2009 Annual Hunters’ Convention. SCIF’s Sensory Safari Trailer is a hands-on mobile exhibition with specimens of the world’s most incredible animals for students to enjoy.

SCIF’s Sensory Safari exhibit will be stationed at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center’s north parking lot from January 21rd – 24th, 2009 from 10 AM. until 2 PM daily, weather permitting. All Washoe County School District principals will be offered an invitation for teachers and students to view the spectacular wildlife.

The hands-on learning experience is being delivered in a 45-foot Sensory Safari Trailer provided by SCI’s Redding Regional Chapter (California). The van contains over 30 taxidermy exhibits, including a fully mounted Grizzly Bear, shoulder mounts of various Springboks, Blesboks and Bushbucks along with Cape Buffalo, Kudu, Sable and Zebra rugs. Children are encouraged to touch and feel the animals so that they can better understand what these incredible animals are really like. The Sensory Safari creates the opportunity to approach big game animals and learn more about them through touch, particularly for children who are sight impaired.

“Bringing wildlife to America’s youth is one of the most effective ways of encouraging children to get outside and enjoy nature,” noted SCI President Merle Shepard.

“The Sensory Safari Exhibit is one of SCIF’s most effective wildlife education tools. It really is amazing to see how all children can experience wildlife in such a real and up-close setting,” added Ron Bartels, Co-Chairman of SCI’s Sensory Safari & Disabled Hunter programs.

The Redding Regional Chapter’s Sensory Safari Exhibit will also be on display at the Reno Events Center in downtown Reno on January 20th during the Sportsmen Against Hunger “Feed the Hungry Feast”. This annual event, supported through donated game meat, has helped feed thousands of hungry families in the Reno/Washoe County area in years past. The local Salvation Army Post in Reno is once again helping to coordinate this event.

If you are interested in learning more about the positive experiences had by youth around the country who have visited one of SCI’s Sensory Safari exhibits, please contact SCI Foundation’s Humanitarian Services Department, www.safariclubfoundation.org or your local SCI chapter.

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SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s 187 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

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