President’s Message – August 2020
I must start out by apologizing for the long delay in getting out Chapter updates. We were lucky to have our Banquet just a few days prior to the state shutting down of event gathering all together. We were luckier than 40% of the other chapters that had to cancel or try to reschedule this fall. Our attendance was down from last year (-40%) with the hovering of the COVID-19 already in the air. Those that attended certainly did their part in bidding and enjoying the evening. Revenues compared to last year was only down 22%. Our offerings in silent, raffle, and auction were as good as we have ever had. We had around 24 guns spread out over all three combined!!!! Most of the hunt/fishing trip auctioned were North American with exception of a fantastic New Zealand hunt.
We also awarded the Arkansas Warrior 2020. Major (retired) Robin Tolliver was in attendance with her husband and two beautiful girls. M C Adventures is going to put their family up at the Hickory Knoll Ranch in Texas for an adventure they all four will never forget. Thanks to Cathy and Mike Wheatley.
The money raised has supported the following:
| AR. Hunters Feed the Hungry | $2,000 |
| Saline County Shooting Sports | $1,500 |
| Avilla youth sporting | $1,500 |
| Youth Hunter Education Challenge | $5,250 – We supported both state and regional competition. |
| SCI Colorado Wolf Initiative | $2,000 |
| Blue Rock Gun Club | $2,600 |
Benches with AR Chapter SCI logo in support of rebuilding after flood. Several of our chapter members made personal donations in support to the rebuilding as well.
I know that many hunting and fishing trips were cancelled. Not only out of the county but even out of state closed turkey hunts to non-residents. The cost to outfitters all over the world has put them in major financial distress. Hunters not only support the outfitters but the communities and countries ability to protect wildlife. Hunters are the main support system to long term survival of wildlife through conservation efforts. Safari Club International will be auctioning off donations through their website. 100% of the proceeds will be going to a fund to help those who have supported SCI for so many years. It is time to give them a much support as possible in their time of need. Another great way is to book a hunt with one of the outfitters.
Let us do our best to keep safe. Thank God we have the outdoors to enjoy.