This convention from all indications that I have heard, was successful. Our attendance number were up from last year.

The DEC presentations were informative and open for a wide range of discussions.

The presentation on 2nd amendments issues, by Paloma Capanna was a timely subject matter, and gave a perspective from someone that has been a champion of second amendment issues for nearly 30 years.

Our resolutions, two this year, were voted on and both passed.

Our elections were held, all incumbent Officers that chose to run for reelection were reelected, which include President 2nd Vice President and Legislative Vice President. Our Director at Large position that was up for election stayed with the incumbent George Gibbs. We have a new Alternate Director to fill a vacancy in Region 3. We do have three vacancies that still exist, 1st VP, Secretary, and Treasurer. If you or anyone you know is interested in these 3 positions, please email Casey at [email protected].

We gave out four awards this year for more info on them check the meeting minutes on our website.

I would give further information on the above but, due to a family issue that came up I was unable to attend this year’s convention. I trust others will cover the above in more detail. If not, I will be rewriting this article.

POST CONVENTION WALK AWAYS

The NYSCC needs to be even more involved with 2nd amendment issues and how they affect the sporting community. Our addressing the 2nd amendment issues need to be accurate, informative, out reaching to legislators and the public. We need to avoid embellishments but remain loyal to protecting 2nd amendment rights related to the sporting community.

Our legislative team will follow the above guidelines, we need our membership to actively follow our legislative team. Numbers matter here.

We have a very good working relationship with NYS DEC. This is something highly appreciated by the Council membership. This working relationship needs to remain intact.

This issue of different topics, such as 2nd amendment issues, right to hunt, fish, and trap, and conservation concerns, and access outside of New York State need to be on a watch list and even responded to by us.

There are groups such as TRCP and other that support us that are deserving of our support. As an example, it was stated at our convention that an anti-2nd amendment issue presented in California if successful will be on the doorstep of New York State with its supporters before you know it.

Let’s be thankful for the work of Lori Vezendy as Treasurer, the efforts and our Secretary Rod Boula, and the work, dedication, and inspiration of Keith Tidball our now former 1st Vice President.

All three did not run for re-election due to changing job commitments or other issues that affected their time they had to work with the Council.

There were some voids that had to be filled and readily before the convention due to different factors. When presented to the BODs, Volunteers readily step up and volunteered where needed, even before they could be asked. This step-up and get-r-done attitude can be strong with in the Council. I ask that others adopt this attitude and that the numbers grow.

The following is worthy of repeating. With our “Rebuild 2020” initiative has come the need for a continued number of individuals to step forward each year to help continue the efforts of protecting the future of the Council, our mission, and other area identified in which we need to grow.Voids naturally occur with people having to step back due to personal commitments, job requirements, or simply aging out. The vacancies of the 1st VP, Treasurer, and Secretary are very visible examples where someone is needed to help fill these voids. This organization is not a static organization that only needs to protect how we operate now. We are a growing group that needs active support in protecting our present mission and additional concerns as they become apparent.

All indications related to our financial situation is that we are holding our own and even moving forward in improving our financial situation. Looking back to the last three treasurers and comments from Julie, comments were giving to me to not promote too rosy of a picture of our financial situation. As it could change in instant. There is a degree of truth to that. But looking at what is happening I have a most positive outlook at our annual financial outlook. May our membership prove me correct and continue their support of the NYSCC.

Reminders

• If you want to serve or remain on a committee, please submit an application before Mid-December. (Application available on our website.)

• Proposed Resolution submission are due by February 1st (for more info visit our website).

• There is an upcoming Post Convention BOD meeting to be held to fill the positions that are annually appointed by the President/BODs.

Thanks for your membership and participation within the New York State Conservation Council.