© By Othmar Vohringer
…Is never easy. This is no different with a company, especially if that company manufactured and sold a product that had a good purpose and made hunting from treestands with a rifle safer. It came a bit of a shock to me when I learned that Gun Safety Innovations had to close its doors as another victim of the current economic situation. There have been rumors for a while that the company is considering calling it a day but somehow I hoped they would pull through.
I first became aware of Gun Safety Innovations around the middle of June in 2006 when I was surfing the Internet, as I often do, looking for hunting news. I somehow ended up on the Gun Safety Innovation blog Hunt Smart, Think Safety written by Kristine Shreve, Marketing Director of the company. After reading about the product called “Gunslinger” and later renamed to the much catchier and descriptive name “GunTriever” I knew that this was a winner of a product. You can read all about the GunTriever in my product review that I wrote after I field-tested the product.
Shortly after my review Gun Safety Innovation became one of my sponsors and I became one of their pro-staff members. I like to work with companies that manufacture useful quality products because it is such products that I can fully endorse and promote with confidence and still be able to look in the mirror at the end of the day. I wouldn’t have it any other way. It always has been my policy that I only promote products that I am convinced about. The GunTriever had been one of these products and I was sure that it would become a hot seller. But it seems with the economy faltering gun safety in a treestand seemed not to be first and foremost on the minds of rifle hunters.
Besides helping to promote the GunTriever I had the privilege to gain Kristine Shreve as a valued friend and supporter of my blogs and work. From a business point of view I learned a lot about promotion and marketing from Kristine. It was this friendship that ultimately led, together with a handful of other serious outdoor bloggers, to the founding of the Outdoor Blogger Summit (OBS). I think I speak for all founding members here if I say that it is in large part thanks to Kristine’s drive, determination and vision that the OBS today is the largest outdoor blogger organization.
I am sad to see Gun Safety Innovations closing but the friendships I made thanks to the company are continuing. Of course as the hopeless optimist that I am I have not given up hope that one day Gun Safety Innovations will be back again.
Thanks for everything! I wish all the employees and owners of Gun Safety Innovations nothing but the best of luck in the future.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Monday, June 29, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Health update
© By Othmar Vohringer
Since my post About fishing, bleeding and surgery I received many comments on this blog, by email, on twitter and facebook with get well soon wishes, tips and general concern. I therefore think it is only right to update you on my health and thank you all for the outpouring of concern you have shown.
A few days ago my doctor phoned up to tell me that the results from the blood and urine tests are in and that he would like to speak to me about a concern he had. At my age you start to worry when you hear the word “concern” and so I didn't look forward to the next appointment.
As it turned out there where more good than bad news waiting for me. The good news is that all my inner organs and systems are in very good shape and working order. This, according to my doctor is better then above average for people in my age group. The blood and urine tests also showed that all the other things associated with age such as cholesterol and high blood pressure among a few other things are very good. In short to use the doctors words. “You’re an exceptionally healthy person.”
So what’s the concern then? My hemoglobin is in the basement, which according to the doctor is an indicator of how much blood I lost when I had the nosebleed. The doctor said that I lost just over a third of my blood and he was surprised that I didn’t get a blood transfusion. “Normally” the doc said, “people that loose that much blood go into shock and can slip into a coma.” Wow, that would explain why I still get dizzy spells and feel tired all the time. On the short walk with my dog to the post office, less than a mile, I have to rest three times to catch my breath.
“Yes” the doctor said, “and I advice you to take it very easy, as soon you feel dizzy or tired lay down and have a rest. If you’re not resting you still could send your body into shock. You have very little blood left in your body and it will take about a month to build up to normal. During that time don’t do anything that puts strain on you.”
The good thing is that I now get to eat more of the stuff that I like to eat and that makes most people go “yewww “. In order to build up my blood I have to eat iron rich foods, things like liver and spinach. Yummiii!
Food contains iron in two forms; heme and non-heme. Heme iron is better absorbed by the body than non-heme iron. Heme iron is found in meat, eggs, fish and poultry. Non-heme iron is found in beans, whole grains, nuts and some fruits and vegetables like spinach and string beans. To help the body to absorb the richer heme iron I will eat foods rich on vitamin C such as citrus fruits, cantaloupe, strawberries, broccoli ( I love broccoli it’s my favorite vegetable next to potatoes and spinach), sweet peppers and tomatoes.
To this end the doctor gave me a long list of foods I should eat more of in the coming weeks and he also prescribed iron pills for me. One aspect I like about my doctor is that he is not a pill pusher. I absolutely detest taking medicine. So much so that I rather ride my severe migraine attacks out than resorting to heavy painkillers that leave me nauseous and with upset stomach for days.
Now I am happy again knowing that I am not plagued by some old age ailment that needs non-stop medical attention, as I feared first when I realized that my strength has left and my heart pounded like a sledgehammer. I am looking confident into the future knowing that all is good.
Now I am tired and need a rest. I just happen to know the perfect place to rest. There is a beautiful lake near our house and that is where I will spend the rest of the day with the fishing rod.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Since my post About fishing, bleeding and surgery I received many comments on this blog, by email, on twitter and facebook with get well soon wishes, tips and general concern. I therefore think it is only right to update you on my health and thank you all for the outpouring of concern you have shown.
A few days ago my doctor phoned up to tell me that the results from the blood and urine tests are in and that he would like to speak to me about a concern he had. At my age you start to worry when you hear the word “concern” and so I didn't look forward to the next appointment.
As it turned out there where more good than bad news waiting for me. The good news is that all my inner organs and systems are in very good shape and working order. This, according to my doctor is better then above average for people in my age group. The blood and urine tests also showed that all the other things associated with age such as cholesterol and high blood pressure among a few other things are very good. In short to use the doctors words. “You’re an exceptionally healthy person.”
So what’s the concern then? My hemoglobin is in the basement, which according to the doctor is an indicator of how much blood I lost when I had the nosebleed. The doctor said that I lost just over a third of my blood and he was surprised that I didn’t get a blood transfusion. “Normally” the doc said, “people that loose that much blood go into shock and can slip into a coma.” Wow, that would explain why I still get dizzy spells and feel tired all the time. On the short walk with my dog to the post office, less than a mile, I have to rest three times to catch my breath.
“Yes” the doctor said, “and I advice you to take it very easy, as soon you feel dizzy or tired lay down and have a rest. If you’re not resting you still could send your body into shock. You have very little blood left in your body and it will take about a month to build up to normal. During that time don’t do anything that puts strain on you.”
The good thing is that I now get to eat more of the stuff that I like to eat and that makes most people go “yewww “. In order to build up my blood I have to eat iron rich foods, things like liver and spinach. Yummiii!
Food contains iron in two forms; heme and non-heme. Heme iron is better absorbed by the body than non-heme iron. Heme iron is found in meat, eggs, fish and poultry. Non-heme iron is found in beans, whole grains, nuts and some fruits and vegetables like spinach and string beans. To help the body to absorb the richer heme iron I will eat foods rich on vitamin C such as citrus fruits, cantaloupe, strawberries, broccoli ( I love broccoli it’s my favorite vegetable next to potatoes and spinach), sweet peppers and tomatoes.
To this end the doctor gave me a long list of foods I should eat more of in the coming weeks and he also prescribed iron pills for me. One aspect I like about my doctor is that he is not a pill pusher. I absolutely detest taking medicine. So much so that I rather ride my severe migraine attacks out than resorting to heavy painkillers that leave me nauseous and with upset stomach for days.
Now I am happy again knowing that I am not plagued by some old age ailment that needs non-stop medical attention, as I feared first when I realized that my strength has left and my heart pounded like a sledgehammer. I am looking confident into the future knowing that all is good.
Now I am tired and need a rest. I just happen to know the perfect place to rest. There is a beautiful lake near our house and that is where I will spend the rest of the day with the fishing rod.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
In North Dakota hunters come first
© By Othmar Vohringer
In a press release from June 1, 2009 the North Dakota Game and Fish Department announced changes to the use of Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) effective immediately.
The changes involve treestands, painballing and geocaching. The deadline to remove treestands has been extended by three weeks to Jan. 31. Scott Peterson, wildlife resource section supervisor, said extending the archery season has allowed bowhunters to hunt WMA’s later into January than previous years. “This left very little time for archers to remove tree stands,” Peterson said. “We thought it was prudent to give hunters more time to remove tree stands.”
Paintballers and geocachers do not fare as well. The Game and Fish Department announced that these activities are now prohibited on all WMA’s in North Dakota. “While these types of activities may not always create a significant impact to an individual WMA, they do create a considerable amount of unnecessary disturbance to both wildlife and wildlife habitat,” Peterson said. “They also have the potential to create competition with hunters and anglers who help pay for managing WMAs.” said Peterson.
The lion’s share of funding to purchase and maintain Wildlife Management Areas comes directly from hunters through the special excise taxes generated by the sale of firearms, ammunition and other hunting related products. The funds are distributed to the states by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service each year. Peterson reasoned, and quite rightly so, that therefore hunters and fishers should be able to hunt and fish undisturbed by paintballers and geocaching activities.
I take my hat off to the North Dakota Fish and Game Department for putting hunters, fishers and wildlife habitat first. I hope that the North Dakota decision is adopted by other states and Canadian provinces with the same showing of respect toward hunters and fishers who finance the bulk for the management of WMA’s and other public lands.
This news has been brought to you by:
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Tags: North Dakota, Fish and Game Department, Hunters, Geocaching, Paintballing, New WMA Regulations, In North Dakota Hunters come first
In a press release from June 1, 2009 the North Dakota Game and Fish Department announced changes to the use of Wildlife Management Areas (WMA) effective immediately.
The changes involve treestands, painballing and geocaching. The deadline to remove treestands has been extended by three weeks to Jan. 31. Scott Peterson, wildlife resource section supervisor, said extending the archery season has allowed bowhunters to hunt WMA’s later into January than previous years. “This left very little time for archers to remove tree stands,” Peterson said. “We thought it was prudent to give hunters more time to remove tree stands.”
Paintballers and geocachers do not fare as well. The Game and Fish Department announced that these activities are now prohibited on all WMA’s in North Dakota. “While these types of activities may not always create a significant impact to an individual WMA, they do create a considerable amount of unnecessary disturbance to both wildlife and wildlife habitat,” Peterson said. “They also have the potential to create competition with hunters and anglers who help pay for managing WMAs.” said Peterson.
The lion’s share of funding to purchase and maintain Wildlife Management Areas comes directly from hunters through the special excise taxes generated by the sale of firearms, ammunition and other hunting related products. The funds are distributed to the states by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service each year. Peterson reasoned, and quite rightly so, that therefore hunters and fishers should be able to hunt and fish undisturbed by paintballers and geocaching activities.
I take my hat off to the North Dakota Fish and Game Department for putting hunters, fishers and wildlife habitat first. I hope that the North Dakota decision is adopted by other states and Canadian provinces with the same showing of respect toward hunters and fishers who finance the bulk for the management of WMA’s and other public lands.
This news has been brought to you by:
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Tags: North Dakota, Fish and Game Department, Hunters, Geocaching, Paintballing, New WMA Regulations, In North Dakota Hunters come first
Sunday hunting in Saskatchewan is coming
© By Othmar Vohringer
Here is a bit of good news for hunters in Saskatchewan. According to the
Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment the Sunday hunting ban will be lifted.
Hunters will enjoy an additional day of hunting in Saskatchewan, with province-wide Sunday hunting for all game species and hunters beginning with the 2009 hunting season.
This will bring Saskatchewan in line with the vast majority of North American jurisdictions, which already have Sunday hunting.
"Sunday hunting will provide economic benefits to our rural economy and strengthen tourism and recreational hunting opportunities," Environment Minister Nancy Heppner said.
A 2006 economic evaluation of hunting done for the Ministry of Environment showed that the total hunting-related expenditure in the province was $107 million and hunting created the equivalent of 1,000 full-time jobs.
"Bringing in Sunday hunting will lead to an additional $9 million in total expenditures," Heppner added. That estimate is from a July 2008 survey and analysis contracted by the ministry.
The Ministry of Environment will continue to ensure that wildlife resources are managed to provide priority to First Nations and Métis people under their Aboriginal and Treaty rights, after conservation needs are met.
This news item is brought to you by:
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Tags: Saskatchewan, Sunday Hunting, New Hunting Regulation, Sunday Hunting Ban Lifted, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment
Here is a bit of good news for hunters in Saskatchewan. According to the
Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment the Sunday hunting ban will be lifted.
Hunters will enjoy an additional day of hunting in Saskatchewan, with province-wide Sunday hunting for all game species and hunters beginning with the 2009 hunting season.
This will bring Saskatchewan in line with the vast majority of North American jurisdictions, which already have Sunday hunting.
"Sunday hunting will provide economic benefits to our rural economy and strengthen tourism and recreational hunting opportunities," Environment Minister Nancy Heppner said.
A 2006 economic evaluation of hunting done for the Ministry of Environment showed that the total hunting-related expenditure in the province was $107 million and hunting created the equivalent of 1,000 full-time jobs.
"Bringing in Sunday hunting will lead to an additional $9 million in total expenditures," Heppner added. That estimate is from a July 2008 survey and analysis contracted by the ministry.
The Ministry of Environment will continue to ensure that wildlife resources are managed to provide priority to First Nations and Métis people under their Aboriginal and Treaty rights, after conservation needs are met.
This news item is brought to you by:
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Tags: Saskatchewan, Sunday Hunting, New Hunting Regulation, Sunday Hunting Ban Lifted, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment
Monday, June 22, 2009
BC Family Fishing Day in Merritt
© By Othmar Vohringer
On Fathers Day, June 21st the Nicola Valley Fish & Game Club (NVFGC) held their traditional BC Family Fishing Day event at the children lake located between the Kentucky and the Alleyne lakes. Despite the cloudy weather with the occasional rain and drizzle, it did not deter families from attending. By 11:00 am over 50 adults and 59 children had signed up at the registration booth.
While the weather might not have been the usual sunny and hot it certainly was perfect for fishing. By the end of the event over 120 rainbow trout had been weighed in with the heavier ones exceeding two pounds. Neither did the weather negatively impact on the excitement, joy and determination of the many young fishers. The enthusiasm of the children and the joy they felt spending quality time with their parents and family on the lake had everybody in a good mood.
According to Bill Otway, the organizer of the Family Fishing Day for the Nicola Valley Fish & Game Club, this year’s event has been one of the most successful since the club started to host the Family Fishing Day. Of course an event of this proportion would not be possible without the numerous hard working volunteers and members of the NVFGC and the many supporters from the Merritt business community. A big thank you to the Credit Union, Powderkeg Outdoor Supply Store, Ponderosa Tackle and Archery, Tim Hortons, McDonalds and many other individuals for donating prizes, tents, time and money to make this event possible and the success it was.
The local Conservation Officer detachment was present during the entire event providing assistance and showing children how to clean fish. The Conservation Officers also provided over 40 rod and reel combos plus other smaller prizes and gifts to be given away to the children that took part in the fishing derby. There were other prizes to be had as well; making sure that no child was left out. In the cozy refreshment tent the ladies of the NVFGC were busy providing hot coffee, donuts, grilled hamburgers and hot dogs for the hungry fishers and spectators.
All in all this was a great event shared by many families and everybody had a good time. The BC Family Fishing Weekend purpose is to promote new fishing opportunities and British Columbia as a world-class fishing destination. For this special family event no fishing license was required and the lake had been stocked with additional fish. The NVFGC is proud to be the annual host of the Family Fishing Day and we look forward to next year’s Father’s day event. The NVFGC is a family orientated conservation and sportsman organization offering many events throughout the year for its members. Membership applications can be obtained at the Powderkeg Outdoor Supply Store in Merritt.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Tags: British Columbia Fishing, Family Fishing Day, Nicola Valley fish and Game Club
On Fathers Day, June 21st the Nicola Valley Fish & Game Club (NVFGC) held their traditional BC Family Fishing Day event at the children lake located between the Kentucky and the Alleyne lakes. Despite the cloudy weather with the occasional rain and drizzle, it did not deter families from attending. By 11:00 am over 50 adults and 59 children had signed up at the registration booth.While the weather might not have been the usual sunny and hot it certainly was perfect for fishing. By the end of the event over 120 rainbow trout had been weighed in with the heavier ones exceeding two pounds. Neither did the weather negatively impact on the excitement, joy and determination of the many young fishers. The enthusiasm of the children and the joy they felt spending quality time with their parents and family on the lake had everybody in a good mood.
According to Bill Otway, the organizer of the Family Fishing Day for the Nicola Valley Fish & Game Club, this year’s event has been one of the most successful since the club started to host the Family Fishing Day. Of course an event of this proportion would not be possible without the numerous hard working volunteers and members of the NVFGC and the many supporters from the Merritt business community. A big thank you to the Credit Union, Powderkeg Outdoor Supply Store, Ponderosa Tackle and Archery, Tim Hortons, McDonalds and many other individuals for donating prizes, tents, time and money to make this event possible and the success it was.
The local Conservation Officer detachment was present during the entire event providing assistance and showing children how to clean fish. The Conservation Officers also provided over 40 rod and reel combos plus other smaller prizes and gifts to be given away to the children that took part in the fishing derby. There were other prizes to be had as well; making sure that no child was left out. In the cozy refreshment tent the ladies of the NVFGC were busy providing hot coffee, donuts, grilled hamburgers and hot dogs for the hungry fishers and spectators.All in all this was a great event shared by many families and everybody had a good time. The BC Family Fishing Weekend purpose is to promote new fishing opportunities and British Columbia as a world-class fishing destination. For this special family event no fishing license was required and the lake had been stocked with additional fish. The NVFGC is proud to be the annual host of the Family Fishing Day and we look forward to next year’s Father’s day event. The NVFGC is a family orientated conservation and sportsman organization offering many events throughout the year for its members. Membership applications can be obtained at the Powderkeg Outdoor Supply Store in Merritt.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Tags: British Columbia Fishing, Family Fishing Day, Nicola Valley fish and Game Club
Friday, June 19, 2009
Still taking it easy
© By Othmar Vohringer
It’s almost a week since I had the nosebleed of all nosebleeds which landed me in the hospital. I still feel drained of all strength due to the severe blood loss and have no other choice but to take it easy. We took this opportunity to drive around the countryside, rather than hiking, and it gave me a good opportunity to put my new camera though it paces.
Here are the results. Enjoy.
Typical landscape around our home in Merritt.
A mule deer doe on the side of the street enjoying a nibble on the fresh green. There where four more a bit further back in the woodlot.
This is one of lakes I frequent with the fishing rod in the middle of a beautiful and tranquil landscape.
Gazu, our loyal dog and my good hunting partner, having a good time at the lake fetching sticks and chasing little fish in the shallow shoreline or anything else that moves.
A snapshot of my photography tutor, wife and best friend at work. She's hidden behind tall grass waiting of the shy Loon to get into position for her to take a picture.
All pictures are taken with a Canon Rebel XSi Digital SLR and various fixed and zoom lenses.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
It’s almost a week since I had the nosebleed of all nosebleeds which landed me in the hospital. I still feel drained of all strength due to the severe blood loss and have no other choice but to take it easy. We took this opportunity to drive around the countryside, rather than hiking, and it gave me a good opportunity to put my new camera though it paces.
Here are the results. Enjoy.
Typical landscape around our home in Merritt.
A mule deer doe on the side of the street enjoying a nibble on the fresh green. There where four more a bit further back in the woodlot.
This is one of lakes I frequent with the fishing rod in the middle of a beautiful and tranquil landscape.
Gazu, our loyal dog and my good hunting partner, having a good time at the lake fetching sticks and chasing little fish in the shallow shoreline or anything else that moves.
A snapshot of my photography tutor, wife and best friend at work. She's hidden behind tall grass waiting of the shy Loon to get into position for her to take a picture.
All pictures are taken with a Canon Rebel XSi Digital SLR and various fixed and zoom lenses.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
It worked
© By Othmar Vohringer
In all the excitement of last week I completely overlooked an email sent to me by Bill Otway regarding our “Poor Box” action in support of the British Columbia Conservation Officers (C.O's).
Since it appears that some of the information in the email is from confidential sources I am not going to provide names in the following post.
In the email Bill Otway informs me the he got an email from somebody at the BC Wildlife Federation (BCWF) to let him know that information has been received from someone in the BC government that more funding to cover Conservation Officers (CO) expenses and gas money for their duty vehicles has been "found" made available. In other words the CO’s are now able again to fulfill all of their duties and patrol their assigned territories.
It is interesting to note that the government “found” the money three days after our “Poor Box” action took place and two days after I posted on this blog. I check my blog stats every day and often see referring urls ending in “gov.ca” (Government of Canada), “gov.us” (United States Government) and “gov.bc” (Government of British Columbia).
Could it be that somebody in the BC government visiting this blog read about our “Poor Box” action and got the ball rolling to find money for our CO’S before more actions are taken around the province by engaged hunters? I don’t know but like to think so.
The media reported about it on the front page the day I went into hospital and the local TV station is still airing a segment on it. Thanks to everybody involved in getting our message out there.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
In all the excitement of last week I completely overlooked an email sent to me by Bill Otway regarding our “Poor Box” action in support of the British Columbia Conservation Officers (C.O's).
Since it appears that some of the information in the email is from confidential sources I am not going to provide names in the following post.
In the email Bill Otway informs me the he got an email from somebody at the BC Wildlife Federation (BCWF) to let him know that information has been received from someone in the BC government that more funding to cover Conservation Officers (CO) expenses and gas money for their duty vehicles has been "found" made available. In other words the CO’s are now able again to fulfill all of their duties and patrol their assigned territories.
It is interesting to note that the government “found” the money three days after our “Poor Box” action took place and two days after I posted on this blog. I check my blog stats every day and often see referring urls ending in “gov.ca” (Government of Canada), “gov.us” (United States Government) and “gov.bc” (Government of British Columbia).
Could it be that somebody in the BC government visiting this blog read about our “Poor Box” action and got the ball rolling to find money for our CO’S before more actions are taken around the province by engaged hunters? I don’t know but like to think so.
The media reported about it on the front page the day I went into hospital and the local TV station is still airing a segment on it. Thanks to everybody involved in getting our message out there.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Monday, June 15, 2009
About fishing, bleeding and surgery
© by Othmar Vohringer
The week started of quite pleasant and on Wednesday it got even better when my wife and I spent a relaxing afternoon fishing on the lake. I have to admit that I have to watch myself as Heidi recently seems to do better at catching fish then I am. If that keeps up I will be the one asking her for tips.
In the two hours we fished I caught one decent sized Pike Minnow that I released since I am not so keen on eating them. Pike Minnows taste nice but they have a lot of very fine bones that makes eating them a chore for me. In that same time frame Heidi caught five fish of which she released all but one cokanee salmon. For those that are not familiar with salmon. A kokanee is a sockey salmon that spends its entire life in freshwater.
We decided that we will have that fish for dinner and on the way home we discussed what side dishes we want to make with it. Arriving at home I cleaned the fish and then went downstairs to my office to check on my emails. I had a Fish & Game Club board meeting that evening and sometimes board members send last minute information.
I was just about to answer an email when I felt a funny sensation in my nose and before I had time to wonder what it is a stream of blood gushed forth with such violence that within seconds the desk, keyboard, my shirt and pants were totally covered in red. Pressing both hands firmly on my nose I run upstairs, leaving a copious blood trail behind me.
For an hour I tried to stop the bleeding but no matter what tricks I tried, and I tried them all, the bleeding had mo intention of slowing down. When the blood started to drip out of my mouth Heidi stepped in and said, “Like it or not but I am taking you to the hospital.” With both hands pressing towels on my nose and a mouth full of blood, spitting and swallowing at the same time I was hardly in a state to argue that it is no big deal and probably will stop at any moment now. So I followed her obediently to the car.
On the short drive to the hospital I was thinking at any time now the bleeding would stop and when we arrive at the hospital I would look like a fool for bothering a busy doctor with nothing. As it turned out the bleeding didn’t stop and by the time a doctor was called I created a sizeable puddle of crimson on the hospital floor. Finally, what seemed like an eternity a doctor showed up and when he said, “Oh my gosh” it dawned on me that the fish dinner may be delayed and that the club’s board meeting may have to commence without me.
As it turned out the doctor in the small hospital seemed a bit at a loss what to do to stop the bleeding. As a last resort he gathered up as much stuffing as he could carry in his hands and proceeded to shove it all up my nose. Up to that point I had no idea that a nose can expand to three times its normal size and that it could accommodate four large sized surgical sponges. But hey what do you know that seemed to do the trick. The bleeding stopped. With the doctors recommendation, “Leave the stuffing in the nose for at least two days” still ringing in my ears I began to wonder how on earth I am going to breath with my mouth while eating or drinking. Or I am supposed to quit eating and drinking for two days too?
The answer to that problem solved itself three hours into me trying to relax a bit in front of the TV and sipping on a cup of coffee in our living room. I heard a “plop” and then saw a little ring form in my coffee cup, like when one throws a stone in the water, the moment I set cup on my lips to take sip of my favourite beverage. “Plop” there is another one. “Plop” there goes another one. What the heck it that? I just wanted to tell Heidi that the stuffing starts to leak when I felt that said stuffing literary is been pushed out of my right nostril. I just made it to the sink when the stuffing vacated my nose followed by the Niagara Falls of all nosebleeds.
The same procedure followed as previously. I am getting a ride to the hospital while pressing towels against my face. It got interesting back in the hospital when the doctor, called out in the middle of the night and somewhat irritated inquired. “Did you pull the stuffing out?” and continued without pause in a distinctly reprimanding voice, “I told you it has to stay in your nose for two days.”
I explained what happened and the doctor reached for my pulse and then exclaimed, “no wonder your blood pressure is through the roof. We have to get you on medication.” An hour and a blood pressure lowering injection later my nose was bleeding like there would be no end to the supply but I started to feel a bit woozy. Upon telling the doctor that I start to feel a little “funny” it seemed to trigger an emergency button in his brain. He decided that perhaps now would be a good time to consult with a specialist. Great thinking. I would appreciate that. I started to worry a bit and looking at Heidi I sensed that she was about to make a decision for the doctor if he does not come up with an idea soon.
An hour from that phone call and with more stuffing up my nose, still blood tripping out my mouth, I was whisked off in an ambulance to the hospital in Pendiction, some hundred kilometres from Merritt, while Heidi was following us in the car. Arriving in Pendiction the nose specialist was awaiting me, an Iranian, he padded me on the shoulder while assuring me in a calming warm voice. “Don’t worry my friend I fix that for you.” Thank God finally somebody seems to know how to stop that bloody nightmare.
“Lay on that table and tilt you head back,” the doctor said. Half here and half in la-la-land I felt a sharp sting shooting up my nose. The best I can describe the sensation is like someone stuck a burning torch up my nostrils. From somewhere distant I heard the doctors reassuring voice. “That will do it for now and tomorrow I will operate on your nose. Don’t worry everything will be just fine. You will sleep well tonight.” With more stuffing up my nose and that burning sensation an my confidence in the medical profession established the nurse wheeled me to my room.
The next day a nurse came the room to tell me that the operation had been rescheduled for the next day due to emergency overflow from a bad road accident. Well at least I did have a good night sleep and the bleeding did stop. I was in good hands and could wait a day.
On Saturday morning someone from the operating room came to tell me that I would be operated on in a few hours. Ah, that’s why dinner was missing last might. At 10 am I was carted off to a room full of strange instruments and lights a nurse smiled at me saying, “You will feel a bit dizzy in a minute” No kidding the world started to spin before me like a carousel. Just before it got dark around me I heard that by now familiar warm reassuring voice “You’ll be fine when …” the rest of the sentence faded away as the world got darker around me.
“Good morning Othmar you’re in the recovery room, everything went fine as I promised you.” I open my eyes and looking at the doctor mumbled something about how grateful I am and that I really would appreciate a coffee about now.” I am not familiar with all the medical terms but as I figured out there were a few bone fragments from an earlier nose bridge fracture- another one of these things I didn’t want to bother a doctor with and let nature take care of it instead- that had to be removed because they pierced through the nose membrane and that in turn caused the profuse bleeding.
I learned that the nose is a delicate organ with an intricate web of blood vessels and if several of them are cut it can results in severe bleeding and in rare cases can cause critical blood loss. I was just on the edge of reaching the critical stage. Heidi came to pick me up on Saturday afternoon and rather then admiring the beautiful countryside between Pendiction and Merritt I slept all the way home. Staggered in the house got comfortable on the couch and sleep sound until the next morning.
Today I feel still a bit woozy. Doctor said it will take a few days for the body to replenish all the blood I lost and I shall take it easy for a few days. Other than having a nose resembling that of a bulldogs face – that will go away to in a few days too – there is no visible sign on my body from that ordeal.
Oh before I forget! A big thank you to my lovely wife for standing at my side throughout the ordeal and remaining absolutely calm and having the situation under control even when the first doctor seemed for a moment to loose it. She drove several times back and forth between Merritt and Pendiction and spent a full day cleaning up the bloody trails I left behind throughout the house and on all the clothing, computer and the office desk.
One thing that had me worried is the high blood pressure but the Iranian doctor assured me. "Nonsense you do not need blood pressure regulating medicine. You have had an exiting experience and trauma it is normal for the blood pressure to go through the roof, you’re a human not a machine. I checked all your organs and systems and everything is in perfect condition.” At age 56 I guess that is a compliment.
What a weekend!
The week started of quite pleasant and on Wednesday it got even better when my wife and I spent a relaxing afternoon fishing on the lake. I have to admit that I have to watch myself as Heidi recently seems to do better at catching fish then I am. If that keeps up I will be the one asking her for tips.
In the two hours we fished I caught one decent sized Pike Minnow that I released since I am not so keen on eating them. Pike Minnows taste nice but they have a lot of very fine bones that makes eating them a chore for me. In that same time frame Heidi caught five fish of which she released all but one cokanee salmon. For those that are not familiar with salmon. A kokanee is a sockey salmon that spends its entire life in freshwater.
We decided that we will have that fish for dinner and on the way home we discussed what side dishes we want to make with it. Arriving at home I cleaned the fish and then went downstairs to my office to check on my emails. I had a Fish & Game Club board meeting that evening and sometimes board members send last minute information.
I was just about to answer an email when I felt a funny sensation in my nose and before I had time to wonder what it is a stream of blood gushed forth with such violence that within seconds the desk, keyboard, my shirt and pants were totally covered in red. Pressing both hands firmly on my nose I run upstairs, leaving a copious blood trail behind me.
For an hour I tried to stop the bleeding but no matter what tricks I tried, and I tried them all, the bleeding had mo intention of slowing down. When the blood started to drip out of my mouth Heidi stepped in and said, “Like it or not but I am taking you to the hospital.” With both hands pressing towels on my nose and a mouth full of blood, spitting and swallowing at the same time I was hardly in a state to argue that it is no big deal and probably will stop at any moment now. So I followed her obediently to the car.
On the short drive to the hospital I was thinking at any time now the bleeding would stop and when we arrive at the hospital I would look like a fool for bothering a busy doctor with nothing. As it turned out the bleeding didn’t stop and by the time a doctor was called I created a sizeable puddle of crimson on the hospital floor. Finally, what seemed like an eternity a doctor showed up and when he said, “Oh my gosh” it dawned on me that the fish dinner may be delayed and that the club’s board meeting may have to commence without me.
As it turned out the doctor in the small hospital seemed a bit at a loss what to do to stop the bleeding. As a last resort he gathered up as much stuffing as he could carry in his hands and proceeded to shove it all up my nose. Up to that point I had no idea that a nose can expand to three times its normal size and that it could accommodate four large sized surgical sponges. But hey what do you know that seemed to do the trick. The bleeding stopped. With the doctors recommendation, “Leave the stuffing in the nose for at least two days” still ringing in my ears I began to wonder how on earth I am going to breath with my mouth while eating or drinking. Or I am supposed to quit eating and drinking for two days too?
The answer to that problem solved itself three hours into me trying to relax a bit in front of the TV and sipping on a cup of coffee in our living room. I heard a “plop” and then saw a little ring form in my coffee cup, like when one throws a stone in the water, the moment I set cup on my lips to take sip of my favourite beverage. “Plop” there is another one. “Plop” there goes another one. What the heck it that? I just wanted to tell Heidi that the stuffing starts to leak when I felt that said stuffing literary is been pushed out of my right nostril. I just made it to the sink when the stuffing vacated my nose followed by the Niagara Falls of all nosebleeds.
The same procedure followed as previously. I am getting a ride to the hospital while pressing towels against my face. It got interesting back in the hospital when the doctor, called out in the middle of the night and somewhat irritated inquired. “Did you pull the stuffing out?” and continued without pause in a distinctly reprimanding voice, “I told you it has to stay in your nose for two days.”
I explained what happened and the doctor reached for my pulse and then exclaimed, “no wonder your blood pressure is through the roof. We have to get you on medication.” An hour and a blood pressure lowering injection later my nose was bleeding like there would be no end to the supply but I started to feel a bit woozy. Upon telling the doctor that I start to feel a little “funny” it seemed to trigger an emergency button in his brain. He decided that perhaps now would be a good time to consult with a specialist. Great thinking. I would appreciate that. I started to worry a bit and looking at Heidi I sensed that she was about to make a decision for the doctor if he does not come up with an idea soon.
An hour from that phone call and with more stuffing up my nose, still blood tripping out my mouth, I was whisked off in an ambulance to the hospital in Pendiction, some hundred kilometres from Merritt, while Heidi was following us in the car. Arriving in Pendiction the nose specialist was awaiting me, an Iranian, he padded me on the shoulder while assuring me in a calming warm voice. “Don’t worry my friend I fix that for you.” Thank God finally somebody seems to know how to stop that bloody nightmare.
“Lay on that table and tilt you head back,” the doctor said. Half here and half in la-la-land I felt a sharp sting shooting up my nose. The best I can describe the sensation is like someone stuck a burning torch up my nostrils. From somewhere distant I heard the doctors reassuring voice. “That will do it for now and tomorrow I will operate on your nose. Don’t worry everything will be just fine. You will sleep well tonight.” With more stuffing up my nose and that burning sensation an my confidence in the medical profession established the nurse wheeled me to my room.
The next day a nurse came the room to tell me that the operation had been rescheduled for the next day due to emergency overflow from a bad road accident. Well at least I did have a good night sleep and the bleeding did stop. I was in good hands and could wait a day.
On Saturday morning someone from the operating room came to tell me that I would be operated on in a few hours. Ah, that’s why dinner was missing last might. At 10 am I was carted off to a room full of strange instruments and lights a nurse smiled at me saying, “You will feel a bit dizzy in a minute” No kidding the world started to spin before me like a carousel. Just before it got dark around me I heard that by now familiar warm reassuring voice “You’ll be fine when …” the rest of the sentence faded away as the world got darker around me.
“Good morning Othmar you’re in the recovery room, everything went fine as I promised you.” I open my eyes and looking at the doctor mumbled something about how grateful I am and that I really would appreciate a coffee about now.” I am not familiar with all the medical terms but as I figured out there were a few bone fragments from an earlier nose bridge fracture- another one of these things I didn’t want to bother a doctor with and let nature take care of it instead- that had to be removed because they pierced through the nose membrane and that in turn caused the profuse bleeding.
I learned that the nose is a delicate organ with an intricate web of blood vessels and if several of them are cut it can results in severe bleeding and in rare cases can cause critical blood loss. I was just on the edge of reaching the critical stage. Heidi came to pick me up on Saturday afternoon and rather then admiring the beautiful countryside between Pendiction and Merritt I slept all the way home. Staggered in the house got comfortable on the couch and sleep sound until the next morning.
Today I feel still a bit woozy. Doctor said it will take a few days for the body to replenish all the blood I lost and I shall take it easy for a few days. Other than having a nose resembling that of a bulldogs face – that will go away to in a few days too – there is no visible sign on my body from that ordeal.
Oh before I forget! A big thank you to my lovely wife for standing at my side throughout the ordeal and remaining absolutely calm and having the situation under control even when the first doctor seemed for a moment to loose it. She drove several times back and forth between Merritt and Pendiction and spent a full day cleaning up the bloody trails I left behind throughout the house and on all the clothing, computer and the office desk.
One thing that had me worried is the high blood pressure but the Iranian doctor assured me. "Nonsense you do not need blood pressure regulating medicine. You have had an exiting experience and trauma it is normal for the blood pressure to go through the roof, you’re a human not a machine. I checked all your organs and systems and everything is in perfect condition.” At age 56 I guess that is a compliment.
What a weekend!
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
78 year old beats off attacking grizzly bear with stick
© By Othmar Vohringer
Breaking News:
Antler art artist, 78 year old Tom Wanyandie beat off a grizzly bear with his walking stick that attacked his son.
The father and son were looking for moose antlers sheds in the wilderness near Prairie Creek when they spotted a grizzly bear cub. A few seconds after seeing the cub the adult grizzly attacked Tom Wanyandie’s son James injuring him seriously.
Read the full story here how the courageous father fought off the bear with his walking stick and saved his son life.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Tags: Bear Attack, Grizzly Bear Attacks Man, Alberta
Breaking News:
Antler art artist, 78 year old Tom Wanyandie beat off a grizzly bear with his walking stick that attacked his son.
The father and son were looking for moose antlers sheds in the wilderness near Prairie Creek when they spotted a grizzly bear cub. A few seconds after seeing the cub the adult grizzly attacked Tom Wanyandie’s son James injuring him seriously.
Read the full story here how the courageous father fought off the bear with his walking stick and saved his son life.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Tags: Bear Attack, Grizzly Bear Attacks Man, Alberta
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Taking Action
© By Othmar Vohringer
As reported in an earlier article the government of British Columbia has again cut back the budget of the Fish and Wildlife Branch of the MOE (Ministry of Environment). This is a trend that unfortunately has become an annual ritual over the past several years while at the same time increasing the workload and duties of our Conservation Officers. The budget cutbacks are not about the lack of funding generated by hunters and fishers, which exceed the 400 million dollar mark, which would be more then enough money to finance the expenses of the Fish and Wildlife Branch. The cut backs are more about paying for an ever-expanding government bureaucracy and the multi-million boondoggle of the upcoming 2010 Winter Olympics.
Unfortunately, unlike America, British Columbia does not have a law like the Pittman-Robertson Act that would guarantee that hunter and angler generated money flows back to the Wildlife department. Instead the millions from hunting and fishing flow into the general province budget to be used in any which way the government sees fit.
Letters from outraged hunters, fishers and organizations to the government, complaining about the budget cuts to the Fish and Wildlife Branch that leaves our Conservation Officers basically without enough funding to operate - There isn't even enough money to fuel up the CO service vehicles - remained largely unanswered. In the rare occasions where replies were sent they consisted of the usual political excuses why cutbacks to the Fish and Wildlife Branch were necessary. Well, if the government does not listen to reason and commonsense they can maybe be shamed into listening. With that in mind a few members of the Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club, spearheaded by well known and respected Canadian outdoor personality Bill Otway, got together and initiated a “Poor Box” initiative.
On June the 4th. Bill Otway, my wife and I visited the local sporting goods stores to set up donation boxes to collect money for the local Conservation Officers, so they at least can buy gas for their service vehicles. Of course we didn’t just go to the stores and set up “Poor Boxes” quietly. We invited the newspapers and the local television. They all attended the event and will report to the community about why we now have to help finance the Conservation Officers so they can continue to do their important work as the first line of defense against poaching and environmental pollution.
This “Poor Box” action initiated by the Nicola Valley Fish & Game Club has generated interest of other Fish and Game Clubs in British Columbia and soon it will catch on all over the province and generate a lot of public interest and that might be all that is needed to make the government rethink their short sighted budget cuts. Or as one store owner and former Conservation Officer put it eloquently. “With the recent budget cuts the government has cut the legs off of the guard dog.”
I leave you here with the official press release that we handed out.
Image courtesy of Bill Otway
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
As reported in an earlier article the government of British Columbia has again cut back the budget of the Fish and Wildlife Branch of the MOE (Ministry of Environment). This is a trend that unfortunately has become an annual ritual over the past several years while at the same time increasing the workload and duties of our Conservation Officers. The budget cutbacks are not about the lack of funding generated by hunters and fishers, which exceed the 400 million dollar mark, which would be more then enough money to finance the expenses of the Fish and Wildlife Branch. The cut backs are more about paying for an ever-expanding government bureaucracy and the multi-million boondoggle of the upcoming 2010 Winter Olympics.Unfortunately, unlike America, British Columbia does not have a law like the Pittman-Robertson Act that would guarantee that hunter and angler generated money flows back to the Wildlife department. Instead the millions from hunting and fishing flow into the general province budget to be used in any which way the government sees fit.
Letters from outraged hunters, fishers and organizations to the government, complaining about the budget cuts to the Fish and Wildlife Branch that leaves our Conservation Officers basically without enough funding to operate - There isn't even enough money to fuel up the CO service vehicles - remained largely unanswered. In the rare occasions where replies were sent they consisted of the usual political excuses why cutbacks to the Fish and Wildlife Branch were necessary. Well, if the government does not listen to reason and commonsense they can maybe be shamed into listening. With that in mind a few members of the Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club, spearheaded by well known and respected Canadian outdoor personality Bill Otway, got together and initiated a “Poor Box” initiative.
On June the 4th. Bill Otway, my wife and I visited the local sporting goods stores to set up donation boxes to collect money for the local Conservation Officers, so they at least can buy gas for their service vehicles. Of course we didn’t just go to the stores and set up “Poor Boxes” quietly. We invited the newspapers and the local television. They all attended the event and will report to the community about why we now have to help finance the Conservation Officers so they can continue to do their important work as the first line of defense against poaching and environmental pollution.This “Poor Box” action initiated by the Nicola Valley Fish & Game Club has generated interest of other Fish and Game Clubs in British Columbia and soon it will catch on all over the province and generate a lot of public interest and that might be all that is needed to make the government rethink their short sighted budget cuts. Or as one store owner and former Conservation Officer put it eloquently. “With the recent budget cuts the government has cut the legs off of the guard dog.”
I leave you here with the official press release that we handed out.
Press Release –For immediate release
June 4, 2009
The members of the Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club are taking the action of setting up donation “Poor Boxes” in our local sporting goods stores today in recognition of the cutbacks our provincial government has made to the budget of the Fish and Wildlife Branch of the MOE.
Despite the fact that the licence fees paid by hunters, anglers and trappers in this province provide more than adequate funds to support fish and wildlife management and protection, funds for these purposes have been cut to the bone.
We find staff cut to below even minimum requirement levels. There is no money to carry out any real management programs including an almost total elimination of inventory of both fish and wildlife stocks.
We have been advised by the Acting Chief Conservation Officer that due to budget constraints Conservation Officers (C.O.s), are no longer allowed to have their government vehicles at home to allow quick response to emergency after hours calls. To add insult to injury we are also advised that C. O.s can only respond to after hour’s calls for incidents that are threats to human health or safety. So after hour’s pollution, poaching etc. will now go unchallenged. In short, the basic reason for the Conservation Officer Service being in existence is no longer on the charts.
The Conservation Officer is the first line of defence in the continuing efforts to maintain and enhance our fish and wildlife heritage. When you take away the first line of defence, you in fact erode the base and have begun the slide into oblivion for this heritage. This is why we have chosen to focus our efforts today on the plight of our Conservation Officer Service. Their plight is a clear indication of the current endemic problems that exist throughout the Fish and Wildlife Branch.
We have spoken with many of our sister clubs throughout the province and find that they are seeing the same problems with reduced enforcement and management as we are. They are supportive of our efforts and many are going to embark on a similar program in their own areas.
We, of course cannot provide funding to pay for the needed overtime and other costs of the Conservation Officers, but we felt that we and the community could contribute to the gas bill of the service. This we feel at the very least should free up some funds for government to be able to provide at least some after hours service. Moreover in many areas we are finding that in fact the current budget does not even provide for an adequate gasoline allowance to do adequate patrols in normal working hours.
We want to make it very clear that it is our experience that the staff in the Conservation Service are totally dedicated to their jobs and are committed to doing all they can to ensure we leave the best possible fish and wildlife heritage for future generations. We in the Nicola Valley Fishing and Game Club intend to do our part to aid these dedicated individuals to achieve their and our goals.
Bill Otway, Communications Chair
Nicola Valley Fish and Game Club
Image courtesy of Bill Otway
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Thursday, June 04, 2009
HSUS Fundraising under the Spotlight
News provided by the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has recently become the subject of scrutiny after an Atlanta based news station’s investigative report raised questions over millions in donations to the HSUS.
The report, done by WSB-TV channel 2, focused on concerns that the HSUS may engage in fundraising tactics in which donors believe their contributions predominately go to help local animal shelters.
The report highlighted certain controversies surrounding the HSUS such as the public disclosure of only $7 million in expenditures for reuniting pets displaced during Hurricane Katrina with their owners, despite having raised $34 million to accomplish the task. At that time, the Louisiana Attorney General’s office launched an investigation into the matter.
A Channel 2 reporter also attended a local HSUS meeting, where the discussions were reportedly focused on activism, not animal care. It was also stated in the report that the Georgia Director for HSUS admitted that she spends most of her time working on lobbying rather than working to coordinate the care of animals.
“We have long believed that many HSUS donors think they are helping local dog and cat shelters,” said Bud Pidgeon, president and CEO of the US Sportsmen’s Alliance. “We think this confusion actually diverts funds away from that purpose and actually funds campaigns to restrict hunting rights and common farming and livestock practices.”
Those confused are not just locals. USSA and other sportsmen and agriculture organizations believe that conservative talk radio host Rush Limbaugh mistakenly believes that HSUS is primarily involved in caring for dogs and cats. Limbaugh recently produced two advertisements for HSUS endorsing a couple of its programs. Sportsmen fear that the conservative icon’s collaboration with the animal rights organization will help whitewash its agenda in the eyes of other conservatives.
The USSA recently had the opportunity to discuss the ongoing controversy surrounding Rush Limbaugh’s support of the HSUS with Greg and Dan on 1470 WMBD in Peoria, Illinois on May 19.
Read more
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has recently become the subject of scrutiny after an Atlanta based news station’s investigative report raised questions over millions in donations to the HSUS.
The report, done by WSB-TV channel 2, focused on concerns that the HSUS may engage in fundraising tactics in which donors believe their contributions predominately go to help local animal shelters.
The report highlighted certain controversies surrounding the HSUS such as the public disclosure of only $7 million in expenditures for reuniting pets displaced during Hurricane Katrina with their owners, despite having raised $34 million to accomplish the task. At that time, the Louisiana Attorney General’s office launched an investigation into the matter.
A Channel 2 reporter also attended a local HSUS meeting, where the discussions were reportedly focused on activism, not animal care. It was also stated in the report that the Georgia Director for HSUS admitted that she spends most of her time working on lobbying rather than working to coordinate the care of animals.
“We have long believed that many HSUS donors think they are helping local dog and cat shelters,” said Bud Pidgeon, president and CEO of the US Sportsmen’s Alliance. “We think this confusion actually diverts funds away from that purpose and actually funds campaigns to restrict hunting rights and common farming and livestock practices.”
Those confused are not just locals. USSA and other sportsmen and agriculture organizations believe that conservative talk radio host Rush Limbaugh mistakenly believes that HSUS is primarily involved in caring for dogs and cats. Limbaugh recently produced two advertisements for HSUS endorsing a couple of its programs. Sportsmen fear that the conservative icon’s collaboration with the animal rights organization will help whitewash its agenda in the eyes of other conservatives.
The USSA recently had the opportunity to discuss the ongoing controversy surrounding Rush Limbaugh’s support of the HSUS with Greg and Dan on 1470 WMBD in Peoria, Illinois on May 19.
Read more
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Monday, June 01, 2009
Knight Rifles closes doors
© By Othmar Vohringer
For weeks I watched the news with a pounding heart hoping against all hope that General Motors (GM) would pull through. Then came the bad news that GM has filed protective bankruptcy. My heart skipped a beat. Yes I admit it, I am a GM fan. I don’t care about Ford, Toyota or Ram. For me the ultimate in comfort and quality is a GM truck.
In all the hoopla surrounding General Motors and completely overlooked by the mainstream media a reputable hunting company quietly closed its doors. Today Knight Rifles announced that they close their gun factory. Tony Knight, the founder of Knight Rifles, was an revolutionary inventor when it came to muzzleloaders and always was a nose length ahead of the competition. Knight was the first to offer an in-line muzzleloader in 1985 and it created a lot of controversy back then. Today in-line muzzleloaders are the norm for most serious black powder hunters and it is thanks to Tony Knight and his far reaching vision.
Later Tony Knight produced another first when he came out with a black powder gun that used shot shell primers as ignition instead of percussion caps. The shot shell primers provided a hotter and more reliable ignition and muzzleloader hunters love it. I still remember my very first muzzleloader, a Knight Wolverine .50 cal, I liked the simplicity, sleek design and out-of-the-box accuracy of that gun and henceforth became a loyal follower of Knight Muzzleloaders.
Over the years Knight Rifles came to be known and respected as trusted quality workhorses that didn’t break the bank. It is thanks to Tony Knight that muzzleloader hunting made the leap from a small niche interest to a hugely popular hunting method that ranks right up there with bowhunting. So what makes such a successful and all around respected company fall down?
According to Toby Bridges, Editor of Knight Rifles Muzzleloader Magazine, it is Knights departure from their original simple design. I think Toby is on to something, because I changed from Knight to Thomson Center for this very reason. It’s sad to see a innovative hunting company go that changed the world of muzzleloader hunting for the better as much as Knight Rifles did.
I wish Knight Rifles the best of luck for the future and sincerely hope that sometime in the future we see them again.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Tags: Knight Rifles, Knight Muzzleloaders, General Motors, Thomson Center, Bankruptcy
For weeks I watched the news with a pounding heart hoping against all hope that General Motors (GM) would pull through. Then came the bad news that GM has filed protective bankruptcy. My heart skipped a beat. Yes I admit it, I am a GM fan. I don’t care about Ford, Toyota or Ram. For me the ultimate in comfort and quality is a GM truck.
In all the hoopla surrounding General Motors and completely overlooked by the mainstream media a reputable hunting company quietly closed its doors. Today Knight Rifles announced that they close their gun factory. Tony Knight, the founder of Knight Rifles, was an revolutionary inventor when it came to muzzleloaders and always was a nose length ahead of the competition. Knight was the first to offer an in-line muzzleloader in 1985 and it created a lot of controversy back then. Today in-line muzzleloaders are the norm for most serious black powder hunters and it is thanks to Tony Knight and his far reaching vision.
Later Tony Knight produced another first when he came out with a black powder gun that used shot shell primers as ignition instead of percussion caps. The shot shell primers provided a hotter and more reliable ignition and muzzleloader hunters love it. I still remember my very first muzzleloader, a Knight Wolverine .50 cal, I liked the simplicity, sleek design and out-of-the-box accuracy of that gun and henceforth became a loyal follower of Knight Muzzleloaders.
Over the years Knight Rifles came to be known and respected as trusted quality workhorses that didn’t break the bank. It is thanks to Tony Knight that muzzleloader hunting made the leap from a small niche interest to a hugely popular hunting method that ranks right up there with bowhunting. So what makes such a successful and all around respected company fall down?
According to Toby Bridges, Editor of Knight Rifles Muzzleloader Magazine, it is Knights departure from their original simple design. I think Toby is on to something, because I changed from Knight to Thomson Center for this very reason. It’s sad to see a innovative hunting company go that changed the world of muzzleloader hunting for the better as much as Knight Rifles did.
I wish Knight Rifles the best of luck for the future and sincerely hope that sometime in the future we see them again.
Othmar Vohringer Outdoors
Founding Member of Outdoor Bloggers Summit
Tags: Knight Rifles, Knight Muzzleloaders, General Motors, Thomson Center, Bankruptcy
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