Syracuse.com - Readers respond to NYS Bowhunters press release touting its summer camp program

[HuntingNY-News]

The group has introduced more than 1,700 young bow hunters into the sport. However, some responded to this milestone critically, noting the group's long-standing resistance to the use of crossbows during the archery season has prevented others from enjoying the sport, too.

The following press release by New York Bowhunters touts a noteworthy accomplishment about the group's summer camp program and all the young archers over the years that have been introduced into bowhunting.

However, several readers have responded critically to it, noting the group's long-standing resistance to getting crossbow legislation passed during the archery season.

At this, point, crossbows are illegal as far as their use as hunting instruments in this state.

The press release follows:

"New York Bowhunters Inc. (NYB) announces over 1,700 youths have been exposed to bowhunting and archery through NYB Annual Summer Youth Camps.

"As the summer of 2013 comes to an end, NYB is proud to announce another 85 youths throughout New York State attended their summer youth camps bringing the total to 1710 since its inception.

"This program is provided at no cost to any young person in New York State aged 11 through 16 years of age.

"NYB began its Youth Camp program in the summer of 1993.

"Camps are generally held over a weekend and although the main focus is bowhunting (including plenty of time on tree stand safety), ethical behavior and other topics are covered as well. Activities vary from region to region and may include; basic tuning of equipment and arrow construction, effective use of maps and compasses when afield, bow fishing, seminars on turkey hunting and scents/lures, as well as talks by local Environmental Conservation Officers.

"Over the course of the two to three days, campers typically take their NYS Bowhunter Certification course.

"All campers spend time on the archery practice range. NYB provides food, lodging, equipment as needed and instructors.

"NYB, founded in 1991 exists to promote and protect bowhunting throughout New York State. The Youth Camp is one of many programs which help NYB achieve that objective. All programs are funded by member dues and donations. For more information or to learn how you can help NYB simply by becoming a member check out the group's website."

What's your feeling on the NYS Bowhunter group's accomplishment with its summer camp program? It's impressive. I'd like to see some testimonials from those who benefitted from it. Meanwhile, I received the following emails Thursday shortly after the press release came out.

"Just think how many senior and handicapped folks you could help participate if you supported legalizing the crossbow in NY."

- Mike Zagata

"And people like me who have had major reconstructive shoulder surgery."

- Todd Mead

"It is to the shame of NYB that in one hand they have one of the best youth programs in the nation (I have taught at the Cortland Camp for over 17 years, watching it work in action), while in the other hand through reckless Hitler style propaganda, fear mongering, they have help to deny not only a legitimate weapon/tool for the sportsmen, but for an entire older class of hunters, and those afflicted with various injuries but cannot meet the BS definitions currently in place for a permit. I believe it that very reason they have so few numbers. 2000 or so? Not sure what it is for 2013 If they were truly an advocate for the sportsmen, the bow hunters, archery hobbyists, you would think they would surpass the tens of thousands mark. How is it that a state that reports over 200,000 bowhunters are so called represented by such a small group. Again, the very stances they take, and elitist positions they have are the very reasons for their limited success when viewed through the lens of what they could be. It is a damn shame that we have such a divisive group in our ranks. I have been subject to their harassment first hand by their leadership just for supporting a contrary proposal or having a different opinion. Very sad that one group feels they must dictate the opinion of the entire sportsmen's community. I started out as a bowhunter, and I don't see myself inclined to every be a member of NYB."

- Mike Joyner

"Nicely stated Mike... Amen!!!

"I am a strong supporter for our veterans of this state and in no way does the NYSB views on crossbow hunting support, or even take into consideration, those veterans who do not quite qualify for the special crossbow license issued by this state. "

- Walter D. Weirich, Jr.

(Bow Hunter, DEC Hunter Safety Firearms Master Instructor, Vietnam/Cold War Veteran, American Legion Rider and Patriot Guard Rider... STILL SERVING!)

What's your feeling on the NYS Bowhunter group's accomplishment with is summer camp program? I'd like to see some testimonials from those who benefitted from it. Meanwhile, I received the following emails Thursday shortly after the Bowhunter press release was released.

View the full article on The Syracuse Outdoors Blog