The young people of today will shape the future.  It is important that they learn to respect themselves, others, and the world around them.  To work hard.  Manage and use resources wisely.  To think before they act, and be responsible for their actions.

Hunting and fishing, along with other outdoor activities provide wholesome, healthy fun. When young people are introduced to the sports by responsible adults, they learn more than just the basic skills involved in harvesting fish and other game, or hitting a target with a bow or firearm. They learn to be patience, quiet, and observant.  To concentrate, and think ahead to the result of their actions.  To function with others as a team.  Appreciate the world around them, and see how there actions impact others.

In short they will become better citizens, and those that mentor them will have learned much as well. Both will enjoy the time spent together, while forming lasting bonds of friendship and camaraderie.

In our busy lives, the value of time spent in the woods or on the water, alone or with others, is immeasurable. Treasure every minute and share it with others.

KIDS DAY
September 19, 2010

Kids Day was held on Sept 19^th with Tom Ricardi of the Massachusetts Bird of Prey Rehabilitation Facility as the presenter of a fine live bird program. Featured birds included the Great Horned Owl, Kestral, Peregrine Falcon, Turkey Vulture, Redtail Hawk and a Golden Eagle. He explained that the habitat and habits of each bird with visual aids and allowing the children to see them up Close.The Golden Eagle and Turkey vulture with their wide wing spans impressed all with the Size of these birds and the Great Horned Owl showed it could turn its head only 180 Degrees, Not completely around.The Kestral, which is a bird native to Mass, is very small and it tends to an herbal diet. The Peregrine Falcon only hunts birds in flight and can attain speeds of 200 MPH. The presentation included questions and answers and concluded with a fine round of Applause for Mr. Ricardi. Pizza and Soda were served afterward.

Kids FISHING DERBY
May 16, 2010

Kid's Fishing Derby was held on May 16, 2010. There were 37 boys and 19 girls that registered. The weather was sunny and cool and 137 trout were caught. Prizes included gift cards to Dick's Sporting Goods. 

Winners

Girls:
        First Place: Casey Landry (13 1/4" Rainbow)
        Second Place: Makenzie MacDonald (12 3/4" Rainbow) 
        Third Place: Hollie Shattuck (12 3/4" Rainbow)

Boys:
        First Place: Austin Shook (13 1/4" Rainbow)
        Second Place: Tanner Dumas (13 1/4" Rainbow)
        Third Place: Cole Archenboult (13 1/4" Rainbow)

Respectfully submitted,

Letter from Esther regarding the Youth Turkey Hunt program...

January 6, 2010

The state has a new program designed to introduce kids to Turkey hunting. This program is similar to the Youth Pheasant program that our club takes part in each fall.

As I mentioned at our last regular meeting, I would be willing to assist with the educational portion of the program if there are some Turkey hunters out there that would be willing to take a kid hunting.

A bit more detail on the program can be found at the Division's website: http://www.mass.gov/dfwele/dfw/education/yath/yath_home.htm

If you are a turkey hunter please consider becoming involved and passing on the tradition by mentoring a youth for a one day hunt this spring.

If you are interested, please reply to my email and let me know how to contact you.

Thanks,
Esther Erickson