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Brenda Valentine NWTF Spokeswoman |
Moving On
When I heard about the consolidation of the NWTF’s publications, my first reaction was a fist pump, matched with, “Yes! Finally!” For me, it was a landmark day for Women in the Outdoors and other Federation outreach programs. Our skills, knowledge, experience and sincere dedication to conservation finally earned us an equal rank in the NWTF family, a longtime dream for us who fall outside the stereotype of outdoor enthusiast, hunter or conservationist.
As a woman, I’m happy to see a section of articles geared more towards our female membership. But it’s also great to thumb through the rest of the book and find inspirational stories of how the Wheelin’ Sportsmen program has helped sportsmen and women with disabilities overcome obstacles to embrace the outdoors. Or, learn how the Federation’s conservation efforts help a variety of wildlife species, not just wild turkeys.
I’d be willing to bet I’m not the only one dabbling in something different. I’m sure there are some hardcore turkey hunters (if you’re reading this, that means you) who find themselves flipping through the various sections out of curiosity, but in the process, gain a better understanding of the variety of programs the NWTF offers. Now, everyone has the opportunity to stay in the loop about everything going on with the Federation.
As in every family, the NWTF is made of individuals, each as varied as leaves in a forest. Yet a common bond connects us all — the NWTF mission — and all parts are vital to the health and success of the organization.
For me and the thousands of others who feel as I do, general acceptance and the opportunity to genuinely participate is what we’ve been asking for all along. Our growing numbers and dogged persistence are hard to ignore. Those of us with a sincere interest in preserving and participating in the outdoor lifestyle feel good about being acknowledged for our valuable contributions to the future of conservation and hunting.
The past 11 years of Women in the Outdoors was a time of ground clearing, soil tilling and seed sowing. Since the program’s beginning, so much has been accomplished — including introducing thousands of women to the satisfaction of stepping outdoors and acquiring new skills.
Women in the Outdoors has undeniably changed and enriched the lives of so many, and it must continue.
Now, we have the opportunity to grow even more. No matter if your heart belongs to camping, bird watching, food plotting, turkey calling or countless other activities, there’s plenty of information in Turkey Country to satisfy everyone. And with Karen Lee, the self-proclaimed girlie-girl turned outdoor woman still at the wheel, I’m confident she’ll steer us down so many outdoors trails that everyone is sure to find something to his or her liking. — Brenda Valentine
Keep up with Brenda and her adventures at www.brendavalentine.com.