— ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS — OCTOBER 2019
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2019 AGLOW CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS
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OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 1 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
October, 2019 Editor’s Notes…
It’s truly a privilege to have been commissioned to be the new editor of AGLOW’s HORIZONS newsletter. I want to thank the Board of Directors for their show of confidence and also my many friends in Issue Highlights. . . AGLOW who offered words of congratulations and encouragement throughout our recent conference. From the President 3 I’m a veteran old school print production kind of guy: hot waxing galleys after hours of tediously From the Executive Director 4 taping borders and typesetting edited copy - all the Ken Kieser Honored 5 while a printer’s deadline beating relentlessly at the production room door. A Little Bit of Everything 6 Things are different now, faster paced just to keep up with technology. I’m a dinosaur; an old dog New Timers Impressions 8 who doesn’t even know what new tricks I need to learn. Hopefully the new format combines those Evolution of the Influencers 10 traditional design/layout elements with a few trendy Bob Holzhei On… 12 enhancements. I hope you’ll comment if something just doesn’t sit well with you as you read through Craft Improvement 13 these pages. HORIZONS will be published quarterly along The Way I See it 14 with bi-monthly briefs called BETWEEN the HORIZONS. Together they will keep you posted on as Gallery of Awards 15 much information as we can - all to help you as Midwest Agency Updates 16 outdoor communicators do your job better. A key to this broad range of information and updates will Market News 18 depend upon your diligence in using AGLOW’s website as a resource, too. I’ll be introducing a few new sections as we continue to refine the new format. Check out “As I See It” - a Craft Improvement opinion piece if you Featured will. The board has also made a few suggestions it Cover Photo would like to see, I hope you do likewise. The new HORIZONS is still a work in Leica Sport Optics progress. Materials are always being sought, 2019 Best of Show comments always appreciated. Thank you…. Pete Czura Award — Tom Watson Excellence in Photography Best of Photography / Hunting Always your best resource for up to date 1st Place – Nick Green “Sharpies in the Badlands” information on ALGOW: aglowinfo.org
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 2 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
From the President - Josh Lantz
The Soul of AGLOW
Thanks to the hard work of our hosts at Over the years, I’ve seen dozens of Explore La Crosse, the support of our Corporate media, tourism and corporate members come and Members, and the planning of our Conference go. Some let their AGLOW memberships expire Committee and Executive Director, AGLOW’s because they simply joined to obtain our recent 63rd annual conference was a great success. membership directory. Some joined, but never But whether you attended or not, you share in the attended one of our conferences or other events, credit as well. so they never experienced the full benefits of the To all of you in the AGLOW Family, I AGLOW dynamic. Some left the industry. And, say thank you. Thank you to our long-time sadly, some joined, participated, benefitted from members – and to those who came before who are the relationships they developed here – and are no longer physically with us – for the time and still benefitting from those relationships – but energy you have invested to make AGLOW what have chosen not to renew their membership. it is today. And thank you to our newer members The AGLOW network is powerful, and it and to those joining us for the first time – for your needs each of you to fulfill its purpose, which is curiosity, your investment in connecting with us, to form bonds and foster cooperation that serves and for the skills, knowledge, energy and abilities us as individuals, as an organization, and as an you enrich us with. industry. As you put the AGLOW network to Because of all of you – and everyone who work, and as the fruits of your cooperation has come before us – AGLOW has a soul. develop throughout the coming year, please Just as the individual atoms, molecules, remember this special group, of which you are a cells and organs in our bodies function together to critical part. Resist the temptation to take what keep us healthy and viable, AGLOW’s soul wants you need and leave. Trust me, there’s a lot more us to bond and cooperate – for the benefit of where this came from, but you need to stay ourselves as individuals, the benefit of AGLOW involved and active in order to keep it flowing. as a group, the benefit of our cherished and Please keep your membership profiles at precious outdoor resources, and – perhaps most the Member Portal of aglowinfo.org updated. Tell importantly – for the good of society. Today, your peers about us and encourage them to join. more than ever, as new generations are growing Participate in one of our Writer’s Camps. up in a virtual world with less and less direct Consider submitting craft improvement stories or interaction with the natural one, humankind needs other helpful content to Horizons. Volunteer to to be reminded of our connections to the great serve on an AGLOW Committee. Engage our outdoors. That’s our collective purpose. membership through social media (FB and Remember that purpose throughout the months Instagram: @aglowoutdoors). And if you are one between AGLOW events, and remember the of our new Social Media Influencer members, AGLOW network. There are truly great people in please let AGLOW’s leadership know what we this organization. You can help them, and they can can and should be doing to provide maximum help you. Also remember that neither this value to you and other top-tier communicators organization nor the quality experiences we enjoy like you. at our events would exist without the support of We’re all here for the same reason. Until our Corporate members. Thank them and include next time, keep bonding and cooperating. them as regular resources to support your work.
Enjoy this special 2019 AGLOW Conference Highlights Issue…
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 3 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
“Wonderful Event” is in the books
The 63rd annual conference is in the instruction and shoot up the cowboy action books and what a wonderful event it was. I would shooting town with revolvers, lever action rifles like to extend a hearty thank you to Jeremiah and double barrel shotguns. Burish, A.J. Freis and the entire staff of the La If you get a chance, go to the AGLOW Crosse County CVB for making it a truly website and check out all of the Awards in Craft memorable event. and Golden Glow winners. Both ceremonies A lot of thought and planning was put in were held during the conference and recognized to providing opportunities for attendees to get on some old familiar faces and a few brand new ones the water and in the woods. One of the things our as well. CVB members have heard me say over and over While on the website pay particular is “No one is going to write about the chicken attention to the logos that scroll across the bottom. they had for dinner at the hotel last night”. Which Those belong to the corporate members that is why I stress the importance of getting our sponsored AGLOW this year - without them none Outdoor Communicators “Outdoors”. Jeremiah is of this would be possible. a tireless outdoorsman himself and took the task Membership renewals will go out next to heart. month. Keep in mind that if you referred a new The crew from Delta Defense/USCCA member this year you get a $50 credit toward also needs some special recognition for their your dues, if you referred two members you get thoughtful preparations for our shooting day this $100, which will cover your dues entirely. It year. They have taken the helm for the past three doesn’t matter if the member you referred was a years and the event gets better and better each media, corporate or tourism member. If you made year. Their enthusiasm toward making this a referrals this past year, drop me a quick email great event has attracted several new corporate with their names, they don’t always remember to and media members. The concept this year include it on the membership application. included a shooting day “break-out” of sorts, I must wrap this up and head north to see allowing some time to communicate with the our friends at Lake of the Woods, Minnesota corporate members participating at the range that where our next “Communicators Camp” will take day. It was a great time to learn about products, place with our good friends at River Bend’s get samples and media materials. Resort, Paul and Brandi Johnson. Stay tuned for While I didn’t see any or our members our next media event, which will likely be an ice strap on spurs and a cowboy hat, I did see many fishing event at Devils Lake, North Dakota. of them take the opportunity to receive some
2019 Board of Directors 2019 Chairman Dan Stefanich [email protected] 2019 President Josh Lantz [email protected] 2019 Vice President Tim Lesmeister [email protected] 2019 Treasurer Ken Perrotte [email protected] 2019 Secretary Hannah Stonehouse Hudson [email protected] Association of Corp. Liaison Brad Bonar [email protected] Great Lakes Executive Director Mark C. Smith [email protected] Outdoor Writers 2019 Director Dave Barus [email protected] PO BOX 548 2019 Director Brian Smith [email protected] Knox, IN 46534, USA 2020 Director Mark Strand [email protected] 877-472-4569 2020 Director Gary N-ski [email protected] 2021 Director Mike Schoonveld [email protected] AGLOWINFO.ORG 2021 Director Josh Huff [email protected]
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 4 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
Ken Kieser Honored with Grand Prize Writing Award from American Sportsfishing Association
Photo provided by K. Kieser Award-winning writer and active AGLOW media member, Ken Kieser, not only is among five writers to receive the i n a u g u r a l A m e r i c a n S p o r t s f i s h i n g Association’s (ASA) Angling Awareness Award. His article took Grand Prize honors as well. Ken, a veteran outdoor writer with 43 Fishing Foundations’ industry-wide effort, years of experience under his belt, was called 60 in 60 to increase the current 49 recognized as both the overall Grand Prizer million annual U.S. Anglers to 60 million by winner and the recipient of the Reactivation/ December 2021. Non-endemic category award. Kieser’s article This year’s awards program includes titled “Fishing is a Calming Experience” ran three endemic awards for pieces published in in the June 15, 2019 edition of the outdoor-related media platforms, including Independence, MO. newspaper, The those that speak directly to anglers. and three Examiner. non-endemic awards for pieces published in He was inducted into the National outlets not specifically geared to fishing or Fresh Water Fishing Hall fo Fame in 2010; outdoor activities. the Missouri Waterfowler’s Hall of Fame in The awards recognize writers who 2013; and the Park Hill High School Alumni write the most effective consumer-facing Hall of Fame in 2019. He was name 2014 content that focus on recruiting new anglers Conservation Communicator in Missouri and into the sport, retaining current anglers or 2015 Conservation Communicator in Kansas, reactivating lapsed anglers back in the sport. the third person to win both titles. "This really was a simple story to Kenneth served as President of both write, sort of a labor of love I guess. The the Missouri Outdoor Communicators and piece features a lady I attended high school The Southeastern Outdoor Press Association. with. I, too, added other benefits of fishing. He also served two terms on the AGLOW Truthfully, I only followed their guidelines Board of Directors. while writing the story”, said Kieser. “I have Kieser said he is grateful for the written this type of story a few thousand recognition and is also very proud of the times over the past 40 years. That said, I am program he created in his community to still in shock and very grateful that my story introduce children with multiple physical was chosen,” he added. (Editor’s Note: Look challenges to the world of fishing. for Ken’s prize-winning story in the Jan.2020 ASA created the Angling Awareness HORIZONS) Awards to support the Recreational Boating &
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 5 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
an accomplished professional A Little Bit of walleye angler as well as Regional Manager for Yar- Craft and Bass Cat Boats. Everything! Fishing with us was Joe Henry outdoor communicator Bob Riege. We targeted walleyes in The 6 3 r d A n n u a l tough high, dirty water Meeting of the Association of conditions. King, having deep Great Lakes Outdoor Writers knowledge on fishing rivers set took place along the banks of up on a current break off of the the mighty Mississippi River in main channel. L a C r o s s e , W i s c o n s i n King was dialed in and September 16-19, 2019. had experience with a local bait AGLOW is a dynamic called willow cats. Basically, organization of writers, editors, they are bullhead-looking publishers, and many other minnows with a lot of slime media professionals. As and sharp spines on their fins. individual communicators, they A challenge hooking educate and inform the masses them on a rig or jig without through the written and spoken getting stung, there was a word. But as an organization, minnow scoop that actually they also seek to foster held them in place to hook Photo provided by Joe Henry fellowship amongst members without touching them. This and provide networking, provided two purposes - not right next to logs next to shore. educational, career and craft getting stuck and not removing In dirty water with high current improvement opportunities - slime from the minnow. Local and debris floating down, the continually creating synergy in fish are more interested in technique was to drop the the outdoor industry. killing these minnows vs eating offering amongst wood where This week was no them for nutrition as they raise the current was altered. different as a variety of men havoc with fish eggs, etc. The Walleyes were living there and and women came together to bottom line, they get hit. in just a few hours of fishing, a learn, network and of course, couple of nice fish were experience La Crosse, WI, caught. which is an outdoor rich area. Shooting Day at the Many attendees of the conference did what it conference is dedicated to AGLOW conference shooting sports, guns, and participated together in a was intended to do… ammunition. It is extremely variety of field activities. bring people together… helpful for outdoors folks to Some fished the mighty better understand the industry, Mississippi River, others the facts and simply have a hunted deer and coyotes. In extremely tough conditions, better handle on the products I had the chance to wet King put us on some walleyes and topics within the industry. a line with Yamaha Outboards using willow cats by working a (Continued on Page 7) pro angler Brett King. King is current seam
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 6 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
L a s t l y, t h e g r o u p s u s t a i n a b l e r e s o u r c e s . checked out the Midwest Basically, taking methane gas Fisheries Center as they f r o m p i g f a r m s a n d (From Page 6) highlight Whitney Genetics transforming it into renewable T h e U S C C A , U S Laboratory’s work testing energy as well as preserving Conceal and Carry Association, water samples for invasive the surrounding environment. does an excellent job of species, the La Crosse Fish Other educational communicating and educating Health Center laboratories that topics included omni channel to attendees with seminars as test wild and hatchery fish for content creation, Juggling the well as hands on experience at diseases, and the La Crosse digital jungle, success as an the gun range. Fish and Wildlife Conservation o u t d o o r c o m m u n i c a t o r, To u r s d i s c u s s i n g Office, a team of field working with natural resources c h a l l e n g e s w i t h o u r b i o l o g i s t s t h a t m o n i t o r agencies, the latest in sonar environment, the importance of populations of invasive and technology, trail cam tech, and the Mississippi River from an native species and works on the science behind scent economic and environmental p a r t n e r s h i p s w i t h o t h e r control. perspective and how different agencies and property owners If you are a stakeholder species are coping with an ever in ensuring healthy waterways or would like to be part of the changing environment were and habitat for aquatic animals, outdoor industry, AGLOW can available to AGLOW attendees. including sports fish. be a great organization to A tour of the Lock & A strong group of explore. It brings the people, Dam with the Army Corp of outdoor communicators and companies and resources E n g i n e e r s t o s e e a n d stakeholders learning about t o g e t h e r f o r o u t d o o r understand the role in which these important subjects pays professionals to thrive. The the locks & dams provide Old dividends in many regards. 2019 conference, once again, Man River was first on the Education is a big part did what it was intended to do, schedule. Next, attendees of the conference. Attendees bring people together for toured the Upper Midwest learned the landscape in fishing m u t u a l b e n e f i t h a v i n g Environmental Sciences Center and hunting using alternatives something to do with the providing insight on access to to lead from the National outdoor industry. research, monitoring, and Wildlife Federation. mapping information about the Roeslein Alternative Upper Mississippi River, its Energy explained how they are habitats and the diverse species using cutting edge techniques that call it home. used in renewable energy, agricultural resource and Upcoming events throughout AGLOW’s upper Midwest region. Details on these and other shows: https://www.huntingfishingandoutdoorshows.com/about.html.
November 15-17 Jan 9-12, 2020 January 17, 2020 Hard Water Expo Ultimate Fishing Show Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Blaine, MN Novi, MI Outdoor Expo - Schaumburg, IL December 6-8 Jan 9-12, 2000 St. Paul Ice Fishing & Winter Kansas City Boat & Sportshow January 30, 2020 Sports Show - St. Paul, MN Kansas City, MO St. Louis Boat & Sportshow St. Louis, MO January 9-11, 2020 January 17, 2020 Archery Trade Show Pheasant’s Forever’s River City January 31, 2020 Indianapolis, IN Hunting, Fishing, Boat & RV Expo Cedar Rapids Sportshow - Council Bluffs, IA Cedar Rapids, IA
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 7 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS — AGLOW family helps turtle lose his shell Roy Heilman Rather, I was inspired by those who made their way to the stage to claim their first place prizes. It’s theirs whose work I will be seeking out and studying in effort to improve my own. Having met some of them, I hope also to tap into their expertise in the future. I n r e t r o s p e c t , I definitely did some things right in maximizing my time and effort at the conference. The first was going on as many field trips as possible. The bus rides were a perfect setting for making acquaintances, which is not my strong suit. And the outings were extremely rich in story ideas which could easily carry me all the way to next year’s conference in Gaylord. A n o t h e r w a y I Conference ‘first-timer’, media member, Roy Heilman says the AGLOW family connected with other attendees “scooped” him up and helped him along. PHOTO: Roy Heilman was to sit with people I didn’t yet know at meals and events. That week’s whirlwind This was never a failed Under the cloak of a of events kicked off soon after. experiment. I was continually morning fog, I slipped down I boarded a bus to tour Lock & impressed by how friendly and the Mississippi valley toward Dam 7, as well as two fishery helpful everyone turned out to La Crosse. My destination was resource facilities. Afterward, be. They made it easy to fight the AGLOW 2019 conference, we were escorted straight to my reclusive nature. Time and where I knew not a single soul. Myrick Park, where we ate and again, ordinary meals were That fog was not just drank like royalty and learned made to feel like family atmospheric; I harbored more about all the La Crosse region dinners. I know already I met than a little trepidation as an has to offer. people this way whom I will unknown, out of my element. E v e r y d a y t h a t keep in touch with and hope to Such is my nature. But I was followed was packed with s e e a g a i n a t t h e n e x t thirsty for connections and a s i m i l a r a c t i v i t i e s a n d conference. better understanding of our opportunities. The unrelenting As I told my wife on industry. I knew I’d have to stream of information was rich the very first night, my hopes fling off my inhibitions and with story ideas, and I could f o r t h e 2 0 1 9 A G L O W wade in wholeheartedly to not have imagined meeting so conference were not only met, make the most of it. many fine people. By the end, I they were exceeded many F o r t u n a t e l y , t h e was physically and emotionally times over. I went in hoping to “AGLOW family” I began to drained. learn things to help me change hear about about scooped me My week’s highlight and improve my craft. What I up and helped me along. By the was the Award In Craft dinner. didn’t expect is that I would time Mark Smith and Josh It wasn’t because I managed to come out feeling so changed Lantz welcomed us at the new snag a few awards (although I and uplifted after only a few member orientation, the fog had my fingers crossed). days. was lifting.
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 8 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS — First Timer - “I was definitely inspired…” Dean Cushman
I had an opportunity intended to immerse oneself for networking. As a content t o a t t e n d m y f i r s t into the natural recourses creator for Teachin' Fishin', I Association of Great Lakes and the points of interest of am always looking for new Outdoor Writers (AGLOW) La Crosse. The trips afield information to expand our conference in La Crosse, were all guided/hosted by teaching library. Our W i s c o n s i n t h i s p a s t professionals, and attendees mission is to increase the September. I was hesitant to needed little if anything to enjoyment of anglers of all s i g n u p t h i n k i n g t h e participate in these events. ages by providing accurate conference atmosphere was F i s h i n g t r i p s o n t h e fishing information in a going to be stuffy and Mississippi River targeted manner that can increase everyone would be absorbed many of the 119 species of their skill level, regardless of into a laptop or notepad. fish, including bass, catfish, experience. That idea could not have walleye, and panfish. This conference created an been further from the truth. Va r i o u s h u n t i n g t r i p s environment that allowed me The group is made up of provided big game and to connect with so many outdoor communicators waterfowl opportunities. others in the industry that from every sector of the Tours provided insights of have fresh content for our outdoor industry and from fisheries management library. I was also able to all corners of the Midwest. facilities, invasive species meet people that can help What I found was management labs, state expand the reach of our that the conference focused h a t c h e r i e s , b o a t i n g p r o j e c t . A d d i t i o n a l l y, m o r e o n g e t t i n g t h e e x c u r s i o n s o n t h e professionals in social media attendees into the field for Mississippi, and trips for marketing shared insights content creation, networking spouses to local points of into maximizing our social events, and more than just a interest. There was even a media viewership. little bit like a family day at the local gun club I am glad that I was reunion. As a first timer I w i t h t a r g e t s h o o t i n g encouraged to join AGLOW was a little reluctant activities and the ability for and am looking forward to attending, because I didn’t everyone to get hands on working with everyone know many people, at least experience with pistols, throughout the upcoming at a personal level. The very rifles, and even a cowboy year. I definitely was first event I attended was a action range complete with inspired by the conference welcome reception where p e r i o d c o r r e c t and inspired to develop more everyone went out of their demonstrators. Everyone c o n t e n t w i t h m o r e way to introduce themselves, had the ability to try their confidence. I would suggest and this made me feel hand at the various shooting that anyone working as an welcomed and immediately stations. outdoor writer, blogger, part of the group. One of the many podcaster, or digital media The conference had benefits of the conference creator join AGLOW to push many organized trips was multiple opportunities the boundaries of their personal growth.
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 9 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS — Evolution of the Influencer
Tim Lesmeister
promotional landscape there were but a few individuals or publishing companies who owned the market. BASS, In-Fisherman, F&S, Outdoor Life, Bill Dance, Roland Martin, Babe Winkelman, the Lindner Brothers. These and a few others were the product drivers sought by the companies that needed to get the word out. Everyone knew who they were and if someone like Gary Roach or Jimmy Houston said we should be using a particular lure on a particular rod and reel, everyone was buying it. Now it’s difficult to name any one individual, with the exception of Kevin VanDam, that stands out these days. Many of the early influencers are no longer as powerful due to the dilution of the platforms they used to gain Al Lindner, Barb Carey and Angie Scott - PHOTO: Women Angler attention. Those trying to get some traction as & Adventurer Podcast. influencers in today’s market are competing with The term “influencer” gets bandied about hundreds of others who now have little to no extensively these days. It tends to relate to necessary investment to obtaining visibility. It someone on a social media platform that is getting costs nothing but time to put up a page on one of a lot of attention. I’ve gathered from the social media sites and try to tempt followers. conversations I’ve had with individuals who Before social the expense was high to publish follow these influencers from a promotional magazines or get sponsors to finance your aspect, someone with over 100,000 followers is television and radio shows. considered the perfect candidate to get on board with if you have a product, service or destination that needs to be promoted. Instead of anglers...getting one or I find it interesting that 100,000 is two opinions from a seasoned considered a big number. Prior to social media becoming the darling of the industry that would influencer, now they can get a have been peanuts. Print media (before social) hundred opinions... could deliver numbers in the millions when you considered the subscriber base of Field & Stream Is this good or bad for the industry? The or Outdoor Life. Even regional print publications answer might depend on who you talk to. like Outdoor News and Midwest Outdoors had the Someone looking for sponsors for their television ability to produce a hundred thousand impressions program will likely cuss Facebook for making it per issue. harder to generate capital. Those that are using a Radio has always been the red-headed social media site to promote themselves or their step child of the outdoor industry, but even today products likely love the cost of doing business. if you add up the impressions that radio provides, From my standpoint, having lived a short segment on a handful of affiliates can through the evolution of the influencer, I believe produce millions of impressions every month. the change is good. Sure, I hated to see North Television was “King” for many years. If an American Fishermen bite the dust, but it thrills me influencer had a television show before social to see Barb Carey and Hannah Stonehouse they were considered a major force in driving Hudson getting the attention they deserve because product. they don’t have to deal with the misogynistic But times they are a changing. Prior to nature of the male-dominated outdoor industry. Facebook and Instagram dominating the (Continued on Page 11)
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 10 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
The Evolution of the Influencer (Continued from page 10)
They can spread their message with a well- Southwick. “High school anglers are influencers, defined social media program that delivers their having significant sway on the fishing tackle message directly to their followers and prove that brands chosen by others of their age.” women can have an impact on the sports of So what is happening is we are creating hunting and fishing. many smaller regions with many more influencers I don’t care if there are no more that are “broadcasting” there messages over superstars in the industry. Instead of anglers, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, hunters and shooters getting one or two opinions FourSquare, Xanga, LiveJournal, flickr, and there from a seasoned influencer, now they can get a are many more influencers and platforms hundred opinions that are specific to their appearing every year. application from many different sources. As journalists and communicators we According to Southwick Associates President Rob should all be ecstatic that we have so many Southwick, who conducted a study recently on options available to get the message out. We are opportunities provided by high school fishing all influencers. Even if we don’t actively promote clubs, the biggest opportunity to tap into with a product, service or destination we do encourage these clubs may be among retailers and our followers to appreciate the outdoors and the manufacturers. “High school anglers are early impact of that prestige should be heard using any adopters and have spent more money on fishing form available. gear than their non-fishing club peers,” said
Discovering the Hidden Gems at the AGLOW Conference Rae Lesmeister
My husband, Tim Lesmeister, has attended AGLOW’s annual conference for over 30 years, always coming home regaling me with tales about the great people, camaraderie, and talents of the many characters who make the outdoor industry a vital one.
Since leaving my corporate life for new professional and personal adventures, I have enjoyed attending several AGLOW conferences with Tim. I have discovered what he has known all along. There is a strong sense of family among the attendees. This mix of gifted writers, photographers, marketing and tourism experts contribute to lively and wide-ranging conversations. Most of all, there are simply some very interesting and fine people.
Here is a sampling of the people I interacted with in La Crosse, WI at this year’s AGLOW conference and their stories which both fascinated and captivated me. I discovered why an AGLOW member was MIA at the conference site. Instead, he was at an art gallery surround by a contingent of Chinese people (ie: Kenny Kieser), the love and kindness one woman has for the dogs she cares for (ie: Karen Lutto), someone for whom I changed a song title of an Alicia Keys tune “This Boy is On Fire” (i.e. Brandon Butler), an exotic location on this writer’s bucket list (i.e. Mike Schoonveld), an actual dog whisperer (i.e. Jim Zaleski), a global outdoor adventurer who befriended a KGB agent (i.e Denny Geurink) and a photographer, writer and marketer, who will be leading trips around the world so others can experience serendipitous interactions only she can conjure up (ie. Cynthya Porter).
Discover why I believe there are many hidden gems to be mined by those that attend AGLOW conferences. Find the entire profile at: https://aglowinfo.org/discovering-the- hidden- gems-at-the-aglow-conference/
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 11 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
BOB HOLZHEI ON… AGLOW’s Communicators Camps
I cast my custom-made Tom Marks fishing rod into Lake Erie, hoping to be one of the anglers accepted in the Chautauqua camp. I reeled in an acceptance to attend the camp. The August, 2019 Communicators Camp was sponsored by the Chautauqua County Visitor’s Bureau, New York. Our base camp was a home on the shore overlooking Lake Erie. Watching the sun rise on the horizon each morning was a perfect way to begin each day, prior to our 7:00 A.M. fishing trip.The daily limit was six walleyes per person with a 7-pound, 2- ounce walleye taking the honors for the largest fish caught. In addition, we had opportunities to fish for bass and Muskie during the three consecutive days. The Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers (AGLOW) began to offer Communicators Camps to its’ members in 2017, replacing the Cast-n-Blast camps. “The Cast-n-Blast formula was to include 15-20 media attendees, plus 15-25 corporate representatives. Looking at the big Picture, CVB’s like everyone else have had to do some belt tightening during the past several budget cycles. As a result, the cost of hosting 30-50 people for a week became undoable for many PHOTO: Capt.. Tim Myers CVB’s. Some of the smaller CVB’s didn’t have “I’d love to see one of these events every the budget for a large event, regardless of the month. They offer a higher rate of return for all economy,” stated Mark Smith, AGLOW’s our member categories (Media, Corporate and Executive Director. Tourism) because they are much smaller and very “The Writer’s Camp concept has a slightly focused. I do believe these types of events are the different footprint. My aim is to facilitate a key to success of AGLOW moving into the future. smaller, more focused event on one location and CVB’s and Corporate members have come to one activity, sponsored by corporate expect a high rate of return on their investment representatives that have a direct connection to and they deserve it. Members polled love the activity,” said Smith. theformat and see results immediately,” concluded The group is also smaller, consisting of Smith. 5-10 media and 2-3 corporate representatives. For More Information Contact: Mark Media that attend must have expertise and an S m i t h , A G L O W E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r outlet for stories. Four to six camps have been www.aglowinfo.org 574 772-4211 or Dave Barus offered each of the past three years. [email protected]
“BETWEEN THE HORIZONS” Published on the 7th & 21st of each month - providing important industry updates & pending deadlines on news and information that falls between our quarterly newsletters. Deadline is 3 days before publishing. Please keep all submissions short and concise. Photos with stand-alone captions also accepted: Send to: Between
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 12 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
The New Direction, Part 1 companies looking for places to buy ads. Your Dave Barus - CI chairman website can accommodate them. Is a website important for a writer? Learn The outdoor communication world has f o r y o u r s e l f a t t h i s l i n k : https:// largely shifted focus to digital content - it’s a new justpublishingadvice.com/is-a-website-important- recipe for so many of us. As professional for-a-writer/. communicators, we may find the need to switch L e a r n i n g T I D B I T # 2 : W h a t i s from paper to digital/wireless and follow the hot Facebook? - Facebook is a free public social trail if we want to stay in the business of networking website that requires users to register publishing our thoughts and words about the and then create profiles, upload photos, share outdoors, outdoor gear and pure outdoor videos, send messages and keep in touch with adventure. Online digital is the new mission people in both social or professional circles. mystery for many newly unemployed outdoor Friends, family, business colleagues and others columnists from the printed world of newspapers can develop user groups. Learn more at these and magazines. websites: https://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/ The Craft Improvement tips below will social-networking a n d https:// help us learn how to take your story and turn it www.facebook.com. out for the digital world to see - accessed from a Learning TIDBIT#3: What is laptop, handheld device, cellphone and other e- Instagram? - Instagram is a photo and video- service devices. sharing app owned by Facebook - but a simplified We will learn about a few terms and version with the emphasis on visual sharing to a phrases that may be new to many members such specified group audience that you can filter. as “keywords” and “hashtags”. We need to know Learn more at: https://www.boostability.com/ more about these terms because they drive the beginners-guide-to-getting-started-on-instagram/. online viewer base across websites and social Learning TIDBIT#4: What is Twitter? media outlets. How many views your stories - Twitter is an online social networking tool in receive keep you in business (or not) in this ever- which users post 140 character updates (called changing modern e-world industry of online “tweets”) of personal events and links to things information. There is so much content on the they think are interesting, funny, or useful to their internet, it can leave your head spinning. followers (“following” being essentially what Learning TIDBIT#1: What is a “friending” is on other sites). People use twitter in website? - A website is a digital page or many ways, as a news feed by following collection of digital pages on the World Wide prominent people or networks, as a pseudo- Web that contain specific information provided chatroom by limiting their followers and whom by one person or more persons, a business or they follow to close friends and family, and as a organization, and traces those pages back to a microblog for updating people about the work common Uniform Resource Locator (URL). they are doing and their personal lives. Learn Facebook is one example of a website. more at this website: You can create your own website that will http://www.momthisishowtwitterworks.com/ highlight your writing work, photography, We’ll look at more Learning TIDBITS opinion, outdoor column thoughts, and so on. #5-#8/ in Part II in the next issue. I will tap on Having your own website can also enable you to some shoulders for help in our ever-expanding sell ads, run contests, and so on. It can also help world of outdoor communication change. Please drive readers to your website pages, allowing you feel free to join in! Drop me a note at to highlight digital traffic volume and sell even [email protected]. more ads. Traffic volume is very important to
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 13 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS — The Way I See It
The Power of Suggestion (Do as I say, not as I photograph!?) Tom Watson
EDITOR’S NOTE: I would like to introduce nature tends to focus on a Do-as-I-say; Not-as-I- a new column for the HORIZONS quarterly do rationalization for following the “rules”. newsletter. “The way I see it” is a combination On a personal level, an outdoor writer/ opinion piece and a craft improvement article - a photographer can express his/her own opinions on subjective look at how we communicate our craft. how far a rule can be bent - or ignored altogether. I don’t know any Your integrity as a journalist responsible outdoor writer is of your own making. who would submit a photo However, when sharing of someone blatantly information with a broad pointing a loaded weapon r a n g e o f r e a d e r s , i t ’s towards someone. important to aim for a wider A photo may evoke spectrum of users regarding either direct or subliminal acceptable safety standards s u g g e s t i o n s i n t h e and leave the suggestions to viewer’s mind. An image do otherwise up to the in a magazine showing a individual reader’s motorcyclist without a perceptions and inclinations. helmet suggests that We don’t need to influence w e a r i n g o n e i s n ’ t unsafe behavior. necessary. While that’s an I am particularly critical individual preference of photos of kayakers not unless otherwise required wearing life jackets/PFDs. by a state’s law, depicting As a former president of the a bare-headed cyclist in a Trade Association of Sea consumer publication Kayaking, a kayak tour might convey the notion operator and a frequent that helmets are merely an columnist on kayak safety after-thought. issues, I may be too close to The same goes for this issue. I recall one of our trophy fishing shots. d e s t i n a t i o n m e m b e r s While we presume that the i n c l u d i n g a n o f f i c i a l images of fish being promotional pamphlet poorly handled for photo-ops are those headed for showing a couple paddling a water craft without the skillet, some captions tagged to presentations any life jackets visible at all (other images in the of a prized catch hanging from a finger in the gills same piece did, however, show paddlers wearing or other mishandling are fish destine to be proper gear). Granted the paddlers may have been returned to the waters. Again, the visual inference in shallow water in a swimming area, but is that this is acceptable - and muddles the responsible images of people recreating safely message as to what is proper Catch-and-Release send an important message. As popular as water fish-handing etiquette. sports are, images without life jackets abound! My biggest, personal concern is regarding Whenever you are purposefully getting photos showing paddlers enjoying their sport sans photos to support your story, whether it’s a candid life jackets. Yes, as a canoer I often just toss mine shot or a set-up, make sure you opt for stressing a under the seat or hung it on a thwart in front of visually responsible image of the action. If you me. However, the prudent and proper water safety are doing a water shoot, bring along life jackets rule is to always wear your PFD! Any time you and if you can’t get your subject to wear one, at are on the water is life-jacket time. But human (Continued on Page 15)
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 14 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
(fromThe Page Way 14) I See It…
least make sure it’s included in the photo and depth safety procedures. Telling paddlers to hope you are conveying the right message to always wear a life jacket and then publishing your readers. With low-cut/thin paneled life photos of them not doing so is irresponsible. jackets and other low-profile flotation As outdoor media professionals, we have an devices, including some form of safety gear opportunity and responsibility to always put in a water-based action shot is a no-brainer our best word - and images - forward in the option. public domain of outdoor communicating - There is a tendency in today’s general even if only through the power of suggestion. recreation media to gloss over safety, offering just enough to appear professional and Suggestions for “The Way I See It” experienced but often failing to stress in-
GALLERY OF AWARDS AND RECOGNITION*
GOLDEN GLOW AWARDS (L TO R): INDIVIDUAL WINNER: Shelley Crant; (R)Tim Lesmeister); ORGANIZATION AWARD: Conservation Federation of Missouri / Dan Zekor; (R) Brandon Butler; CORPORATE AWARD: Delta Defense/USCCA- (L) Kevin Michalowski, (R) Mark C. Smith; EXCELLENCE IN CRAFT:- Paul Smith; (L) Mark C. Smith
(L) BEST OF SHOW: Larry Whiteley/Excellence in Writing/Electronic Media (L) Mark Smith); (C) Nick Green/Excellence in Photography-Pete Czura Award; (R) Best of Industry Public Relations: Sellmark - Outstanding OnLine Media Kit - Kevin Reese (L) Mark Smith. *For more photo coverage of awards and events, be sure to visit: AGLOWINFO.ORG
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 15 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS — Midwest/Great Lakes Agency Updates
IOWA - along with a pheasant/sharp-tailed members of the deer family are grouse endorsement, is required. susceptible. People who find The Iowa Department of Natural The third annual Joe Johnson multiple dead deer should report Resources (DNR) Memorial Youth Pheasant hunt them to the nearest DNR area www.iowadnr.gov, has scheduled will be held Saturday, Oct. 26, at wildlife office. E H D c a n meetings to present its proposed - 16 - the Gordon Guyer-Augusta Creek dramatically reduce a local deer waterfowl season and zone State Wildlife Area in Kalamazoo population in the short-term but structure for the 2021-2025 County. Youth hunters, ages has a relatively small impact on waterfowl hunting seasons. All 10-16, who are hunter safety the overall deer population. EHD is meetings are scheduled from 6-8 certified and have a Michigan base c o m m o n i n t h e M i d w e s t . p.m: Oct. 16, Oelwein Community license, are welcome to join us for Wisconsin, Nebraska, Iowa, Plaza, in Oelwein; Oct. 22, Story a free guided pheasant hunt. Illinois, Michigan and Ohio report County Conservation Center, Groups of two will hunt with a EHD mortalities almost every year. McFarland Park, near Ames; Oct. guide, dog and dog handler. A free 23, Alta Community Center, in Alta. lunch will be provided at noon at Inaugural statewide youth deer Any changes will be reflected in McCrary Hall in Hickory Corners. season opens Oct. 17 - and the 2021-2025 waterfowl seasons. Rustic Ridge Hunt Club, Kellogg concludes Sunday, Oct. 20. “This Biological Center, Kellogg Bird is a hunting season just for kids,” Turkey hunters asked to Sanctuary, Ducks Unlimited, said Barb Keller, big game p a r t i c i p a t e i n d i s e a s e Ruffed Grouse Society and program leader for the DNR. Youth monitoring study - The Iowa Pheasants Forever contribute to must be 10-17 years old and have DNR, in partnership with Iowa the event. Contact: Rachel a deer license. An adult parent, State University, is continuing a Leightner / 517-243-5813. guardian, or mentor must study looking for the presence of accompany youth ages 10-13. All lymphoproliferative disease virus Wetland Wonders Challenge - youth hunters and mentors must (LPDV) in wild turkeys. A relatively Consumer's Energy and the follow blaze orange/pink clothing new disease, the study is designed Michigan United Conservation requirements. Adults may not hunt, to look for the presence of the Clubs have partnered with the unless they are in an area open disease in Iowa. Hunters are DNR to hold an annual contest for during the early antlerless season. asked to save one lower leg for hunters – the Wetland Wonders Complete youth season details are disease testing: For details: Challenge, from Oct. 12 through available on the DNR website on www.iowadnr.gov/Hunting/Turkey- February 10, 2020. Seven winners the youth deer hunting page. Hunting. Media Contact: Jim will take home: $500 gift card for Coffey, Forest Wildlife Research duck hunting gear; Zink custom Biologist, Iowa Department of NORTH DAKOTA - duck call; Yeti water bottle and a Natural Resources, 641-774-2958. Waterfowl Hunting Trailer "golden ticket" good for one first- Available - The North Dakota choice pick at a managed MICHIGAN - Game and Fish Department and waterfowl hunt area drawing (non- Ducks Unlimited co-sponsor a New or novice adult hunters and reserved) for the 2020-21 trailer full of waterfowl hunting gear youth ages 12-17 (a parent or waterfowl hunting season. Learn that is available to families with guardian must accompany youth m o r e a t Michigan.gov/ young hunters. Purchased by the hunters) hunters can learn how to WetlandWonders. G&F’s Encouraging Tomorrow’s h u n t p h e a s a n t s w i t h a n Hunters grant program, the trailer experienced mentor and dog MINNESOTA - is for families who don’t have the handler during two upcoming DNR finds wild deer infected appropriate waterfowl gear. Use of mentored hunts: Saturday, Nov. 2, with EHD in southeastern the trailer is free; equipment is at Allegan State Game Area in Minnesota - Tests initiated by the donated by Avery Outdoors (goose Allegan County; Saturday, Dec. 14, MN DNR have confirmed that a and duck decoys for field hunting, at Shiawassee River State Game deer in southeastern Minnesota’s two bags of floating duck decoys Area in Saginaw County. There is Houston County died from and marsh seats for hunting a no cost to participate, but a base epizootic hemorrhagic disease wetland). or apprentice hunting license, (EHD), a viral infection to which (Continued on Page 17)
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 16 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
(from Page 16)
For more information on hunting trailer, contact: Ducks Unlimited in Bismarck at 701-355-3500.
Game and Fish Announces Concurrent Season Deer Licenses - The North Dakota Game and Fish Department has amended the 2019 deer proclamation to allow hunters to purchase multiple licenses that are valid during any open deer season. Beginning Oct. 7 at 8 a.m. Central Time, any remaining doe licenses will be issued as a concurrent season license, which SOUTH DAKOTA - Randy Kittle/ 605.773.5490 or can be used during the archery e-mail : [email protected]. season with a bow; the deer gun The application deadline is November 8, 2019 for funds season with a bow, rifle or GFP Commission Considers muzzleloader; or during the available for outdoor recreation – South Dakota State Parks and Increase to Park, Camping Fees muzzleloader season with a - The Department of Game, Fish muzzleloader. However, youth who Recreation is accepting applications for grants from the and Parks (GFP) proposed are under age 14 (at the end of the changes to state park entrance calendar year) will be issued a Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Public outdoor and camping fees for the first time concurrent season license for since 2014. Under the proposal archery only. There is no limit on recreation projects (development or renovation of public outdoor most fees would increase about the number of concurrent season 20% - 30%. The proposed licenses a hunter can recreation facilities or the acquisition of park land) sponsored increase is in line with the rate of p u r c h a s e . R e s i d e n t s a n d inflation and with fees in nonresidents are eligible by city, county, township and tribal governments are eligible to receive surrounding states. The revenue to purchase remaining doe raised from this increase will licenses by visiting the Game and the grant money. For more information: Grants Coordinator directly support repairs and Fish website, gf.nd.gov. upkeep in state parks.
The new Jackson YuPIK Full Bow2Stern track Classic with ST Fins, this highly manageable Passport, systems (gunnel tracks and seat tracks) and storage 12-foot pedal kayak, is an expansion of the simplicity, pockets molded in along the entirety of the boat ; 2nd ease, and versatility we created in the original seat capabilities,specialized accessories include the Passport 10.5- more room for fun and even more new kennel cot.The new Kilroy HD hull has been fishing-specific features at an attainable price point, reshaped for more storage, stability, Bow2stern gear including MirageDrive hands-free propulsion, rudder and seat track and a layout that is more suited than Control, additional length support, extra width for even for functional versatility: www.jacksonkayak.com additional stability, suspended Mesh Aluminum Frame Seat, EVA Padded Standing Platform, H-Bar-ready, Hobie® Mirage® Passport 12 pedal-driven fishing with two forward recesses that provide precise kayak - a longer, larger and more fishing-centric placement for simple H-Bar setup. https:// Passport. Powered by the original MirageDrive® www.hobie.com/kayaks/mirage-passport-12/.
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 17 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
Reintroducing an Al’s Original, Third generation 3.0-liter V-6 featuring Thermalboost, a multi- the “Lil’ 49er” -years. The Lil’ EcoDiesel Ram 1500, America’s zone barrier strategically built into 49er is a brass spoon with a funky most powerful half-ton diesel ICETREKS to combat heat loos. shape and distinct action that pickup: 480 lb.-ft. of torque; light- Other featutres include: KingToe ™ takes after its big brother, the Forty duty diesel, with towing capability extra toe box space, Ice Claw Niner - valued as a trolling lure in 12,560 pounds.The EcoDiesel V-6 RPM-LS outsoles, UltraDry ™ open water for its erratic wobble, will be available on all 2020 Ram waterproofing. Kim Emery: and as an outstanding ice jig. 1500 trim levels; optional class-
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 18 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS —
Switchback is fully ambidextrous. vibrates and releases air bubbles Elite:1 - mid-weight, single-layer The main body of the holster is that help grab the attention of any garments tailored for comfort, constructed of layered synthetics: hungry walleye or bass. Info at: ease-of-movement and mobility. an Outer layer of durable black The brushed, premium fleece ballistic nylon; closed cell foam for https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ fabric face and knit interior are stiffness and sturdiness to the m1f6egxxyhpwtbg/ quiet ; warm. Voyage Jacket and holster body; a layer of 420 denier AABDkkD6G12HHPKZOl1jyrSKa Pant employ advanced, archery- gunmetal-colored packcloth lines ?dl=0 friendly designs, ultra-silent the holster.Available in black finish, f a b r i c s , a n d u n s u r p a s s e d Nexbelt’s EDC ratchet-style gun TM Mike Barham, Media / PR Mgr. - 22 - ScentLok Carbon Alloy [email protected] belts’ unique ratcheting system - technology for maximum odor Precise Fit - allows wearer to adsorption. Jacket features Archery Products SX Stabilizer adjust belt in ¼ inch increments include: advanced wicking Series - Available in three sizes— instead of the normal 1 inch treatment; four-pocket design for 6, 8 and 10 inches—the SX adjustment on a traditional pin/ securing gear; concealed safety Stabilizer is CNC machined from buckle belt. This ability to “fine- arness access opening, Voyage’s high-quality T6 6061 billet tune” a belt provides comfort, and Carbon Alloy fabric. Articulated aluminum: durable as it is important for open or concealed elbows, tapered sleeves with low- lightweight.The 6-inch SX carry. Provides the right amount of profile Spandex cuffs. Both the BE: Stabilizer weighs in at 7 oz., the 8- tension to safely secure your 1 Voyage Jacket and Pant are inch is 7.3 oz., and the 10-inch is firearm; ability to quickly switch available in Mossy Oak Elements 7.4 oz.. The SX Stabilizers are from an IWB holster to an OWB Terra Gila, Realtree Excape or anodized black. A four-ribbed, soft- holster. For more detailed True Timber O2 Whitetail. Learn rubber vibration dampener is Information: www.Nexbelt.com. more at www.scentlok.com/ located behind the weight mount. Media interested in field testing, voyage. One 4-oz. weight is included, contact Joe Wieczorek: and it attaches via a front stud that [email protected] St. Croix CCI Ice Rods - can be adjusted so additional Include CI32MLXF Perch Seeker; weights can be added. Three- C I 3 6 M L F S p o o n H o p p e r ; packs of weights are available in a CI36MHF Trophy Taker; and the wide selection of colors. Karen Editor’s Note: CI42HF Apex Predator with Lutto:
OCTOBER 2019 HORIZONS - 19 — ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS — New Tourism Program: The Kinzue SkyWalk at Kinzua Bridge State Park in Mt. Jewett, PA, has opened a 3.8 mile section of the Know & Kane Rail Trail from the park to Mt. Jewett. The hike/bike trail will eventual be an 86-mile corridor from the park, extending through the Allegheny National Forest.
(AGLOW Tourism members are encouraged to submit announcements on destination events/programs)
Official Newsletter of the ASSOCIATION OF GREAT LAKES OUTDOOR WRITERS Tom Watson / Editor