Starting with the deer season, which had very mixed results. Some did well, with others not so good. I think that we have to put the past behind us and look forward to the future. Rebuilding our deer herd is not going to be easy. It will require all of us to take part. We as hunters need to take part and need to take some of the blame, just as the Michigan DNR must take some of the blame. The idea of suing the DNR for mismanagement of the resource would be like suing ourselves. We need to put our best foot forward and see what we, as an organization can do to help improve the herd in the Upper Peninsula.
Personally, breaking my right leg in three places below my knee and ankle on November 29 was not the most pleasant experience. It has really slowed me down, but has given me a lot of time to think.
One thing that comes to my mind and is on the top of my list and is very important to me is that of our 2nd amendment rights. I am an NRA Instructor, and spent 20 years in the Air Force as a Military Policeman, and as an instructor, taught small arms to be used in offense and defense. The class that I now teach is the one required for Michigan residents to obtain a Concealed Pistol License. One subject that I spend a lot of time on is the difference between open carry and concealed carry. Even though it is legal to carry and handgun in the open, you are bound to gather a lot of attention if you display your handgun in the open. The question that comes to most citizens is, "What is the purpose of the open carry?" As part of the class, we teach that brandishing your firearm is not in our best interest. Remember, this is not the old west, it is 2016 and we must hold respect for the 2nd amendment.
Another item that comes to my mind is that we have members of UPSA who in their daily lives can say that what they are doing or saying are representing themselves and not UPSA. This does not work, as most of those we work with know that they are members of UPSA, and that does not help our organization. I hope that these individuals know that they are drawing a lot of negative attention to themselves that may not be to their best interest.
UPSA has become an organization that is highly recognized in the state of Michigan by the NRC, DNR and state legislators. We need to maintain our standing with these organizations
We have members who have extensive knowledge. When used in the correct was which would help us achieve our goals, and not to be used to degrade organizations and individuals. I believe that UPSA would reach a higher status within ore state.
Tony Demboski
President