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PROTECT HUNTING
Our hunting tradition and wildlife habitat is under serious threat. Care about the future of our heritage?
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Check out the COHA
Field Wire.
Subscribe to our Field Wire email newsletter and receive immediate updates on issues critical to you and join the COHA Action Team. |
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| Advocating for pro-hunting policy decisions and defeating anti-hunting and overzealous firearms control measures on all political levels. |
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| Organizing and co-sponsoring California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus events. |
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| Events from COHA and our Partners |
| The California Outdoor Heritage Alliance sponsors and hosts several events each year. Below is a list of upcoming events as well as a recap of those that have recently taken place. In addition, please take the time to visit our member's and partner's websites for their upcoming events. |
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| Upcoming Events |
| The COHA Foundation’s 2nd Annual “Member Celebration” Dinner Scheduled for February 29th |
The COHA Foundation’s 2nd Annual “Member Celebration” dinner event is scheduled for Wednesday, February 29th, at the newly remodeled Crowne Plaza (formally the Holiday Inn) located at the Madison Avenue exit off of Interstate 80 in Sacramento. The hotel is only 15 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from downtown. A great event with quality auction and raffle prizes along with some interesting speakers is planned. Great food and wine with dinner will ensure an enjoyable evening. Doors open at 5:30PM.
Please be sure to join fellow sportsmen and women as we celebrate and promote our hunting heritage. Call Rick at (916) 606-7039 for more information. |
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Event Flyer |
| COHA Launches New COHA Foundation |
At their May 2011 meeting in Sonoma, the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) Board of Directors was pleased to announce the creation of the new COHA Foundation – a 501(c)3 charitable organization responsible for policy-related education, outreach and other compulsory activities integral to the long-term success of COHA. COHA Foundation was created to ensure the long-term health of a COHA partnership whose success is integrally important to the entire hunting and conservation community.
COHA and the COHA Foundation are seamlessly integrated non-profit organizations, strategically united to most effectively achieve their mutual mission of promoting wildlife conservation and protecting our hunting heritage. COHA Foundation is now accepting tax-deducible donations.
(Tax ID Number: 45-1258052) |
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| Previous Events |
| North Valley Sportsmen and Women Gather to Support COHA Foundation |
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On Friday December 9th, the 2nd Annual COHA Foundation Christmas Party was held in Corning, California with an enthusiastic crowd of 200 -- including COHA members Red Bank Outfitters and Girls with Guns. By all accounts, the event, which was held at the Rolling Hills Casino, was a great success. The party kicked off with hosted cocktails and appetizers at 5:00 pm with music provided by local music sensation Chad Bushnell, and guitarist Evan Bissell. A delicious buffet dinner followed at 7:00 pm, along with an informative presentation by COHA & COHA Foundation President Bill Gaines. A live auction and raffle drawings concluded the night’s festivities. Those who were part of this holiday cheer certainly helped the COHA Foundation’s mission to ensure the future of our hunting heritage. |
| COHA Hosts Ninth Annual California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus Shoot |
On August 23rd, California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) staff spent a day in the field with members of the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus, Legislative staff and other policy-makers at the Cordova Shooting Center near Sacramento. The annual event, which is hosted by COHA, drew nearly 130 attendees. Delta Waterfowl was again the overall Event Sponsor for this popular shoot, and the National Wild Turkey Federation continued their long-time support of the event as Gold Level Sponsor.
The shoot is intended to educate California’s decision makers about the safe use of firearms while providing an enjoyable shooting experience. Activities included both trap and skeet shooting—a mainstay of the event—as well archery (for this first time ever). Participants were also treated to a delicious BBQ dinner.
Special thanks to the Department of Fish and Game’s Hunter Education Instructors for providing safety information and instruction, along with the California Bowman Hunters/State Archery Association for setting up the archery range. COHA would again like to thank our Event Sponsor Delta Waterfowl, and Gold Sponsor National Wild Turkey Federation. Special note is also warranted for the event’s Heritage Sponsor California Waterfowl, and two Silver Sponsors, National Shooting Sports Foundation and Platinum Advisors. The following provided valued assistance and partnership for this event. Federal Ammo/RCBS, National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses, California Deer Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, NRA-ILA, California Rifle and Pistol Association, United States Sportsmen’s Alliance, California Correctional Peace Officers Association, Wilderness Unlimited, and Cordova Shooting Center.
To learn more about the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus, please visit |
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http://senweb03.senate.ca.gov/outdoorsportingcaucus/ |
| Petaluma Sportsmen Dinner |
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On July 29th, Bay Area outdoorsmen and women joined representatives from COHA, California Waterfowl Association, California Hawking Club, National Wild Turkey Federation, California Deer Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Mule Deer Foundation, National Rifle Association, Sonoma County Hunter Education Program, Fishing Interests, and other organizations to “Save our Hunting Heritage” by supporting the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance. This event – driven by the idea of bringing California’s diverse outdoor groups together under one roof for one purpose – served as a demonstration of the growing unity and political strength of the Alliance, while helping to raise funds to support the important political advocacy efforts of COHA. Everyone enjoyed great food, quality firearms, games, exciting auction items, and numerous prizes, while often the comment was heard that, “it’s great to see sportsmen and conservation groups finally coming together for a common cause". Many in the crowd also noted that they were not familiar with COHA or the fact that COHA serves as the legislative and lobbying arm for most of California’s hunting and outdoor community. |
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Event Flyer |
| First Annual Southern California Fundraising Dinner |
COHA Foundation was proud to host its First Annual Southern California Fundraising Dinner at the Huntington Beach Elks Club on August 20, 2011.
During the event, Brian Burke, President and General Manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs and former G.M. of the 2007 Stanley Cup Champion Anaheim Ducks, was presented with COHA’s 1st Annual "Hunting and Conservation Award" by COHA President, Bill Gaines. Mr. Burke, a life-long hunter and fisherman, has helped raise critically needed wildlife conservation funds for Delta Waterfowl (COHA Alliance member) and Ducks Unlimited.
The event was enjoyed by a crowd of 200, including State Senator Tom Harman (R-Hunting Beach) and U.S. Representative Dana Rohrabacher (R/CA-46th). |
| Joe Mantegna Presented Award at |
In June 2011, the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) and Uncommon Dialogue Films were pleased to present the “2011 Courage in Entertainment Award” to actor Joe Mantegna. Mantegna was presented the award for his exceptional support of shooting, the Second Amendment, hunting, fishing, archery, and wildlife conservation. The award was presented to Mantegna at the “2011 Hollywood Celebrity Sporting Clays Invitational”, held at the Oak Tree Gun Club in Newhall, California.
Joe Mantegna, the Tony Award-winning star of TV’s Criminal Minds, is also well known for supporting the causes of our military veterans and our troops. Mantegna most recently hosted the National Memorial Day Concert in Washington DC.
“We are honored to be part of this great event and feel that those entertainers like Joe Mantegna who have the courage to stand up and publically support shooting, hunting and the Second Amendment need to be recognized and honored by our community,” stated Bill Gaines, President of the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance and the COHA Foundation. “We are also proud to partner with well known actor, Patrick Kilpatrick, and his production company, Uncommon Dialogue Films, to present this well-deserved award to Mr. Mantegna.”
Proceeds from the “2011 Hollywood Celebrity Sporting Clays Invitational” benefited a vaiety of charitable organizations - including Children of Heroes, Wounded Warriors, Guide On, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Children of Hero’s Wish Program and Gallant Few. |
| Wilderness Unlimited, Wildeats and COHA Partner Event April 2nd |
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Join California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA), Wilderness Unlimited Foundation (WUF) and a host of dedicated sportsmen at the Second Annual “Wild” Fundraiser that will feature nationally recognized Wild Game Chef and W.U. member John McGannon of WildEats Enterprises (www.wildeats.com). This year's, “Wild”, will again be a “Grazing” format with a continuum of culinary presentations of the WildEats variety. Last year’s attendees were taken on a 3 hour adventure that left them noting; “that was one of the best dinners they I’ve ever experienced”. Add in the open bar with top shelf liquor and beer, select wines, and this is one event not to be missed. Click here for the event flyer |
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Event Flyer |
| COHA Foundation to Hold 2nd Annual North Valley Christmas Party/Fundraiser |
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COHA Foundation, in junction with Girls with Guns and Red Bank Outfitters, will hold its second annual Christmas Party/Fundraiser in Corning, CA. The event is scheduled for Friday, December 9th, at the Rolling Hills Casino - kicks off with cocktails and appetizers at 5:00 pm, followed by a delicious buffet dinner at 7:00 pm. To be a part of this holiday cheer, and help COHAF ensure the future of our hunting heritage, call Rick Bulloch at 916-606-7039. Or you can request an event flyer by emailing him at rick@outdoorheritage.org or click on the following link. |
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Event Flyer |
| COHA to Hold Inaugural North Valley Christmas Party/Fundraiser |
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COHA, in junction with enthusiastic north valley sportsmen and women, will hold its inaugural Christmas Party/Fundraiser in Corning, CA. This first-ever event is scheduled for Thursday, December 16th, at the Rolling Hills Casino - kicks off with hosted cocktails and appetizers at 5:00 pm, followed by a delicious buffet dinner at 7:00 pm. To be a part of this holiday cheer, and help COHA ensure the future of our hunting heritage, call Rick Bulloch at 916-606-7039. Or you can request an event flyer by emailing him at rick@outdoorheritage.org. |
 
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| Platinum Advisors Captures Inaugural “COHA Cup” |
The 8th Annual Outdoor Sporting Caucus Trap Shoot was preceded earlier in the day by the 1st Annual “COHA Cup” Team Trap Shooting Competition. The COHA Cup – a 100 target competition which challenged even the most veteran shooters with a mixture of trap, skeet, doubles and sporting clays – was won by the sharp shooting team from Platinum Advisors. The COHA Cup was sponsored by the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance, Delta Waterfowl, Platinum Advisors, National Wild Turkey Federation, California Waterfowl, California Correctional Peace Officers Association, Federal Ammunition, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, California Rifle and Pistol Association, National Rifle Association--Institute for Legislative Action, Northern San Joaquin Valley Safari Club International (SCI), Golden Gate Chapter SCI, San Francisco Bay Area SCI, Sportsman Channel, Shell Oil, Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation National Assembly of Sportsmen's Caucuses, the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance, Avery Outdoors, Olds Apparel and the Cordova Shooting Center.
The Platinum Advisors team broke 337 out of 400 targets to take home the Inaugural “Cup”.
Below, The “COHA Cup” Champion team from Platinum Advisors proudly displays their trophy. From left to right: Chris Jackson, Michael Flores Jr., Darius Anderson (with trophy), Greg Jeffress and Mike Sutsos. |
 
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| Sixth Annual California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus Dinner |
California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus
In an effort to build the political strength of the outdoor community in the halls of our State Capitol, the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) continues to play the lead private sector role in organizing and promoting the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus – a collection of Legislators who have an interest and passion for preserving and enhancing our outdoor traditions.
With the help of Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (R-Murrieta) and Cathleen Galgiani (D-Tracy), and with the critical support of COHA’s member organizations and industry, COHA has been able to build the Caucus in less than a decade to the largest Caucus at California’s State Capitol. To further build membership and interest, COHA organizes, administers and obtains funding for several informative and fun Caucus events each year. Working closely with our membership, COHA annually coordinates a formal Caucus dinner event, a Trap Shoot, habitat tours and other events to build Caucus membership and educate Caucus members and their staff on wildlife and hunting related issues of importance.
Outdoor Sporting Caucus- 6th Annual Sutter Club Dinner
On Wednesday, May 26th, State Legislators, numerous legislative staff members, representatives from the California Fish and Game Commission and the Department of Fish and Game joined many hunting and fishing organizations and other conservation partners at Sacramento’s Sutter Club for the Sixth Annual California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus dinner. The celebration was sponsored by the Cortopassi Family Foundation and hosted by California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) and California Waterfowl (CWA). The wine for the event was generously donated by Charles Krug Winery.
Attendees at the annual semi-formal affair were treated to an outstanding array of food and drink, as well an impressive selection of speakers – including Caucus Co-Chair Senator Hollingsworth, Director of the California Department of Fish and Game John McCamman, President of the Fish and Game Commission Jim Kellogg, COHA President Bill Gaines and CWA Vice-Chair Yancey Forest-Knowles. Senator Hollingsworth, who will be termed out of his Senate seat this fall, shared with the crowd the excitement of being an active member of the Caucus and how he was honored to have played a pivotal role in it being created. The crowd was also treated to the chance to meet the 2008 Olympic Female Discus Gold Medalist and sportswoman Stephanie Brown Trafton.
In close coordination with COHA, CWA and other conservation interests and organizations, the role of the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus is to serve as a core group of Legislators who work together to promote state policy decisions which promote our fish and wildlife resources, their habitats, and the ability of the public to enjoy the outdoor-related activities that depend upon them.
With California’s diverse natural resources offering an abundance of recreational opportunity, hunters and anglers in California spend over $3 billion annually pursuing outdoor activities. More and more, policy decisions made at the state legislative level impact hunting and fishing, wildlife management and access to public lands. Recognizing this, COHA staff worked closely with Senator Dennis Hollingsworth to create the caucus in 2001, and it has since served as an important tool to support the interests of California's many outdoor enthusiasts within the State Legislature.. In 2005, the caucus was formally approved by the State Senate and today it boasts a membership of 35 State Legislators – making it the largest caucus at the State Capitol, representing over one-quarter of the entire California State Legislature.
“California’s diverse and unique natural resources offer a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women,” stated Bill Gaines, California Outdoor Heritage Alliance’s President. “The California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus serves as a critical medium for uniting Legislators and all outdoor interests to guide policy decisions that embrace science-based wildlife management, promote wildlife conservation, and protect our outdoor traditions for future generations of Californians to enjoy.”
In addition to positively dealing with often controversial wildlife, fishery and outdoor related policy issues at California’s State Capitol, caucus members also take time to enjoy the great outdoors at various events sponsored by COHA and its membership - including CWA, National Wild Turkey Federation, Mule Deer Foundation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, California Deer Association, California Houndsmen for Conservation, Westervelt Ecological Services, California Association of 4WD Clubs, Wilderness Unlimited, Western Outdoor News, Safari Club International, California Hawking Club, California Rifle and Pistol Association, Lower Sherman Island Duck Club, Kid’s Outdoor Sports Camp, Turner’s Outdoorsman. A silent auction was also held during the event to raise funds for future Caucus events, with donations provided by many of the COHA member groups.
For more information and pictures visit the link below. |
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San Francisco Examiner |
| California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus |
In an effort to build the political strength of the outdoor community in the halls of our State Capitol, the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) continues to play the lead private sector role in organizing and promoting the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus – a collection of Legislators who have an interest and passion for preserving and enhancing our outdoor traditions.
With the help of Caucus Co-Chairs Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (R-Murrieta) and Cathleen Galgiani (D-Tracy), and with the critical support of COHA’s member organizations and industry, COHA has been able to build the Caucus in less than a decade to the largest Caucus at California’s State Capitol. To further build membership and interest, COHA organizes, administers and obtains funding for several informative and fun Caucus events each year. Working closely with our membership, COHA annually coordinates a formal Caucus dinner event, a Trap Shoot, habitat tours and other events to help educate Caucus members and their staff on wildlife and hunting related issues of importance.
Outdoor Sporting Caucus- 6th Annual Sutter Club Dinner
On Wednesday, May 26th, State Legislators, numerous legislative staff members, representatives from the California Fish and Game Commission and the Department of Fish and Game joined many hunting and fishing organizations and other conservation partners at Sacramento’s Sutter Club for the Sixth Annual California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus dinner. The celebration was sponsored by the Cortopassi Family Foundation and hosted by California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) and California Waterfowl (CWA). The wine for the event was generously donated by Charles Krug Winery.
Attendees at the annual semi-formal affair were treated to an outstanding array of food and drink, as well an impressive selection of speakers – including Caucus Co-Chair Senator Hollingsworth, Director of the California Department of Fish and Game John McCamman, President of the Fish and Game Commission Jim Kellogg, COHA President Bill Gaines and CWA Vice-Chair Yancey Forest-Knowles. Senator Hollingsworth shared with the crowd the excitement of being an active member of the Outdoor Caucus, and was honored to have played a pivotal role in it being created. The crowd was also treated to the chance to meet the 2008 Olympic Female Discus Gold Medalist and sportswoman Stephanie Brown Trafton.
In close coordination with COHA, CWA and other conservation interests and organizations, the role of the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus serves as a core group of Legislators who work together to promote state policy decisions which promote our fish and wildlife resources, their habitats, and the ability of the public to enjoy the outdoor-related activities that depend upon them. The bi-partisan, bi-cameral caucus is co-chaired by Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (R-Murrieta) and Assembly Member Cathleen Galgiani (D-Livingston).
With California’s diverse natural resources offering an abundance of recreational opportunity, hunters and anglers in California spend over $3 billion annually pursuing outdoor activities. More and more, policy decisions made at the state legislative level impact hunting and fishing, wildlife management and access to public lands. Recognizing this, COHA staff worked closely with Senator Dennis Hollingsworth to create the caucus in 2001, and it has since served as an important tool to support the interests of California's many outdoor enthusiasts within the State Legislature.. In 2005, the caucus was formally approved by the State Senate and today it boasts a membership of 35 State Legislators – making it the largest caucus at the State Capitol, representing over one-quarter of the entire California State Legislature.
“California’s diverse and unique natural resources offer a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for sportsmen and women,” stated Bill Gaines, California Outdoor Heritage Alliance’s President. “The California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus serves as a critical medium for uniting Legislators and all outdoor interests to guide policy decisions that embrace science-based wildlife management, promote wildlife conservation, and protect our outdoor traditions for future generations of Californians to enjoy.”
In addition to positively dealing with often controversial wildlife, fishery and outdoor related policy issues at California’s State Capitol, caucus members also take time to enjoy the great outdoors at various events sponsored by COHA and its membership - including CWA, National Wild Turkey Federation, Mule Deer Foundation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, California Deer Association, California Houndsmen for Conservation, Westervelt Ecological Services, California Association of 4WD Clubs, Wilderness Unlimited, Western Outdoor News, Safari Club International, California Hawking Club, California Rifle and Pistol Association, Lower Sherman Island Duck Club, Kid’s Outdoor Sports Camp, Turner’s Outdoorsman. A silent auction was also held during the event to raise funds for future Caucus events, with donations provided by many of the COHA member groups. |
| Third Annual Houndsmen and COHA Event the Biggest Yet! |
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On Saturday evening, July 31st, 200 outdoorsmen and women came together in Thornton to enjoy great food, good drink, and exciting drawing and auction items – all while helping COHA and the California Houndsmen for Conservation (CHC). By all accounts, the Third Annual COHA/CHC fundraising event was a complete success - helping to raise the critical funding necessary to help protect your hunting heritage and your right to hunt mammals with dogs. If you missed this year's event, be sure to make plans to join us next July in Thortnton for our Fourth Annual event. We look forward to seeing you there! |
| 1st Annual Raahauge’s Pheasant Shoot |
As you can see from the photographs, a beautiful pheasant hunt day was had by all at the 1st Annual COHA S. California fundraiser.
The morning began with coffee and camaraderie at Raahauge’s Pheasant Club in Norco – owned by Tony Hendy and Pete Tiano.
The dogs were anxious as were the hunters who could not wait to get into the fields. We had the help of Pointing Labs, Brittanies, an unusual Spaniel from Germany and Poodle Pointers; a veritable dog show on the hills.
Hunters included those from Turners Outdoors, the COHA board, The Outdoor Channel and Western Outdoor News.
We had a longest tail feather contest which was won by Rocky Herbert. Our Mexican lunch was awesome with enough leftovers to feed an army! The raffle featured donations from Buck Knives, Hornady, Division Six Sports, Turners, Mark Stuart, Jim Niemiec – Western Outdoor News, Rick Oefinger – Marina Del Rey Sportfishing and The Outdoor Channel.
We look forward to hosting an even larger Pheasant Hunt /Clays event this Fall. Don’t forget to hold the date.
See you then. |
 
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| Packed House Enjoys COHA/CHC 2nd Annual Banquet |
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A "sell-out crowd" crowd of over 200 attendees enjoyed the Second Annual California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) and California Houndsmen for Conservation (CHC) dinner, raffle and auction on August 1st. A crowd nearly double the size of last year's inaugural COHA/CHC event jammed the "Our Lady of Fatima Society Portuguese Hall" in Thornton on a Saturday evening and enjoyed an excellent tri-tip and chicken dinner with all the fixings. Guest speakers for the evening included Assemblyman Bill Berryhill from the 26th District, CHC President John Kunkle, COHA President Bill Gaines, and COHA Vice-President Mark Hennelly. This event elevates the partnership between CHC and COHA, and net proceeds from the event will help COHA and CHC protect your right to hunt, protect your shooting rights, and promote conservation. These rights along with your right to own and hunt with dogs are continually under assault from animal right extremists. Take a look at some of the bills that COHA & CHC is pushing through the State Legislature. Be sure to attend this event next year, and join the fun. |
 
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| 2009 Legislative Trap Shoot Draws Largest Crowd Ever |
The California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus held its 7th Annual Legislative Trap Shoot on June 17th at the Cordova Shooting Center in Rancho Cordova, just a short drive from the State Capitol. Not only did this year’s affair draw a maximum capacity crowd of 160 people, it drew the largest number of Legislators and Capitol staff ever – including Caucus co-chair State Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (R-Murrieta). Numerous other dignitaries joined Caucus members, including several COHA organizational member representatives, and top California Department of Fish and Game (DFG) and California Fish and Game Commission staff. Also attending the rapidly growing and popular event were 2008 Olympic Discus Gold Medalist Stephanie Brown-Trafton, California State Trap Champion and Junior Olympic Shooter, Michael Flores Jr., State Airgun Champion Brett Morrison, and Women’s State Trap Shooting Champion Paulette Graham. Graham was also very kind to donate her talents in helping some of the beginners find their shooting groove.
The event was sponsored by the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance, National Wild Turkey Federation, Federal Ammunition, California Waterfowl, California Deer Association, California Correctional Peace Officers Association, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, Mendocino County Blacktail Association, California Rifle and Pistol Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Westervelt Ecological Services, National Rifle Association--Institute for Legislative Action, Shell Corporation, Safari Club International-San Joaquin Chapter, Safari Club International- San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, Union Pacific Railroad, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance.
The event opened with a welcome from Caucus Senate co-chair, Dennis Hollingsworth, and COHA President, Bill Gaines. After a talk on gun safety from Captain Roy Griffith, DFG Hunter Education Program Administrator, participants eagerly hit the range. For many who attended the event, it was their first time shooting or even handling a firearm. With the close and careful assistance of a host of Hunter Education Instructors and DFG Wardens from around the state, the trap and skeet shooting proved to be challenging, yet safe and enjoyable for seasoned pros and beginners alike. By the end of the evening, most participants were nursing a sore shoulder, but gleaming with accomplishment.
All of those who attended had an opportunity to shoot several rounds of trap and skeet, as well as enjoy a delicious barbequed meal cooked up by Sierra Smokehouse BBQ.
The California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus was created by COHA staff in order to help ensure state legislative policy decisions which protect and promote California's wildlife, their habitats, and the ability of the public to participate in wildlife-related recreational activities – including hunting. COHA works closely with Caucus Co-Chairs Assembly Member Cathleen Galgiani (D-Tracy) and Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (R-Murrieta) to build interest, membership, coordination and the political strength of this collection of Legislators who share our passion for the outdoors. |
 
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| COHA Wins NASCAR CWS at Sonoma |
Jason Bowles in his #6 COHA/SunriseFord.com Ford won the NASCAR Camping World Series (NCWS) Bennett Lane Winery 200 race at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma on Saturday, June 20th. Running near the front of the pack for the entire race, Bowles took COHA to Victory Lane following a last-lap incident between his teammate, Patrick Long, and Joey Logano, who had led 38 of 64 laps in the event on the 1.99-mile road course.
Photos of the race.
Additional Photos
U Tube interview with Jason Bowles
More on COHA's Facebook Page. |
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| COHA Teams with Carter/Simo and Tommy Baldwin Racing at Sonoma |
The California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) and its member organizations will be featured on Carter/Simo Racing’s No. 08 Ford with driver Boris Said in the Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Infineon Raceway in Sonoma, California on Sunday, June 21st. Additionally, COHA will also be featured on Jason Bowles’ car in the NASCAR Camping World West Series Race at Infineon Raceway on Saturday, June 20th. This was made possible with the generous assistance of Everest Marketing Group and Tommy Baldwin Racing to highlight the important efforts of COHA to NASCAR fans in California and throughout the nation.
COHA was originally slated to be featured on Tommy Baldwin Racing's car #36 with driver Brian Simo in Sunday's feature event. However, a blown engine during Friday's qualifying eliminated car #36 from Sunday's NASCAR Sprint Cup race.
“COHA is very pleased to team with Carter Simo Racing and Tommy Baldwin Racing to run a car at Infineon which represents COHA and many of our member organizations who share our concern for wildlife and the future of our outdoor heritage," stated Bill Gaines, President of the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance. “NASCAR fans are proven to care deeply about these same traditions. With the generous assistance of these two racing teams, we can let them know that COHA is fighting hard to keep these traditions alive in California and beyond."
“I am really excited to team with COHA and Carter/Simo Racing on car #08 this weekend," Baldwin said. “We have road course specialist Boris Said in the car so we should put on a pretty good show for them. I just hope we can make all the COHA folks proud this weekend."
Said, has nine NASCAR Sprint Cup Series starts at Infineon Raceway, finishing as high as 6th twice in 2003 and 2004. Bowles won the 2008 NASCAR Camping World West Series race at Sonoma by leading 38 of the 68 laps.
The Toyota/Save Mart 350 will be televised live Sunday, June 21st, beginning at 1:30 p.m. PDT on TNT. |
| State/County Fish and Game Commission Meeting |
The California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) continues to be the leader in protecting our hunting and wildlife conservation heritage by inviting County Fish & Game Commissions from around the state to a critical conference in Sacramento. The intent of the meeting was for the county commissions to form their own state association, share common issues, and to get to know their counterparts. Other goals included, seeking possible solutions to common issues from around the state – poaching, local prosecution of game violators, fines and fine collection, and promote better communication/coordination between county commissions and the California Fish and Game Commission. Another topic of discussion was the need to educate local district attorneys and judges on the seriousness of repeat or game marketing violators. Judging by the interest and involvement of the 40-plus representatives who met, the new California Association of County Fish and Game Commission will be formed.
The all-day meeting was held at the Sutter Club in Sacramento on February 4th. A full day of break-out sessions were planned after first hearing from a select group of interested guest speakers. State Senator Tom Harman, an active sportsman, led off with a strong message to county commissioners that they should become more active in local and state wildlife issues, along with touching on past and upcoming legislation. The outgoing State Commission President Richard Rogers followed the Senator and provided an interesting history on the State Commission, noting California’s declining number of hunters, and strongly urged those in attendance to form the association. Don Koch, Director of the Fish & Game, followed and conveyed to the crowd how proud he is to represent DFG. He noted that even with dire budget woes, DFG staff remains committed to doing everything possible in protecting our natural resources. DFG Law Enforcement Division Chief Nancy Foley gave an honest yet very bleak picture on the game warden situation and the seriousness of poaching. Warden numbers are decreasing and poaching crimes are running rampant. This of course was of great interest to the Commissioners who consider themselves’ living at the frontline of this battle. To end the speaker portion of the event, Bill Gaines, President of COHA addressed the crowd by stating "we believe that the California Association of County Fish and Game Commissions should have a say in the direction taken by the state with regard to fishing and hunting matters." Gaines, a life-long sportsman, then began to describe how this association could interact and work closely with COHA to provide grassroots support to secure policy decisions that benefit California’s sportsmen and women.
The conference also attracted fellow conservation organizations and an individual who wanted to join COHA in sponsoring this historic meeting. The American Sportfishing Association (ASA), California Deer Association (CDA), California Houndsmen for Conservation (CHC), California Waterfowl Association (CWA), Mule Deer Foundation (MDF), National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), North Coast Fishing Association (NCFA), NRA-ILA, George Osborn, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), and the Sonoma County Abalone Network (SCAN) all deserve recognition for their support of this event. The steering committee for the conference consisted of Rick Bulloch from COHA, Jon Fischer from the Fish and Game Commission, and John Turner, Karl Weiland, Larry Nelson, all of whom sit on the El Dorado County Commission. Pictured below: Don Koch, Director of Fish and Game addressing the Conference (photo on left) and Richard Rogers, Member of the California Fish and Game Commission also addressed the Conference (photo on right). |
 
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| Inaugural Political Action Committee (PAC) Dinner |
Committee (COHA PAC) held its inaugural fundraising dinner on April 10, 2008 at the Scottish Rite Masonic Temple in Sacramento. The event -- which was widely attended by hunters, shooters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts -- was a smashing success, raising substantial funding to promote the campaigns of pro-hunting and angling candidates for California statewide office.
Prompted by the increasing frequency of attacks on hunting, angling, shooting sports, and science-based wildlife conservation in California, in 2007 the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) formally established COHA PAC -- a political action committee, or PAC, which contributes funds to state political candidates and elected officials that support the traditional outdoor legacy of California’s sportsmen and women. Now, more than ever, there is a need to ensure that California outdoor interests are well represented at the State Capitol by COHA – the professionals who are working to protect our hunting, wildlife conservation, and shooting traditions. COHA and COHA PAC are working together to ensure a strong future for California’s wildlife and fisheries and those who have a passion for the outdoors. |
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| Legislators Enjoy Days in the Field |
In February 2007, the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance teamed with the California Waterfowl Association (CWA) to hold a tour of Sacramento Valley wetland and waterfowl habitats for members of the State Legislature and their staff.
This educational event was coordinated with the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus and COHA and CWA staff, and included stops at the rice fields of Dingville and the managed wetlands of Gray Lodge Wildlife Area and Birdhaven Ranch. The California Department of Fish and Game (DFG), Central Valley Joint Venture and California Rice Commission also assisted with the event. Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (R-Murrieta), Co-Chair of the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus, helped kick off the event with a talk about the purpose of the Caucus and the valuable role that hunters play in wildlife conservation.
Participants learned about a number of waterfowl and wetland conservation-related issues of importance to Sacramento Valley waterfowl enthusiasts, including water supplies for managed wetlands, hunting-related funding streams for wildlife conservation, increasing habitat maintenance costs such as mosquito abatement expenses, the contribution of rice as critical waterfowl habitat, DFG budget issues and state and federal habitat conservation programs on private lands. A key theme of the event was the value of public/private partnerships in conserving our waterfowl resource, as well as the need to maintain an incentive-based approach to encourage private landowners to restore and enhance their properties for the benefit of waterfowl and other wildlife.
A variety of waterfowl species were observed during the course of the day, including mallards, northern shovelers, gadwall, pintail, snow geese and cinnamon teal, as well numerous shorebirds, sandhill cranes, blue herons, egrets and even a bald eagle. In between wildlife viewing stops, a delicious lunch from Panera Bread Company® was provided at the Gray Lodge Wildlife Area headquarters.
COHA staff also participated in a separate hunting and shooting event for members of the California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus that was held at Mike Raahauge Shooting Enterprises in Corona, California. Participants included Senator Hollingsworth, Senator Bob Dutton (R-Inland Empire), Assembly Member Bill Maze (R-Visalia) and former Assembly Member Jay La Suer. California Department of Fish and Game Director Ryan Broddrick also attended the day-long event.
Attendees were treated to a morning chukar and pheasant hunt over several well-trained and experienced bird dogs. After lunch and a much-needed rest from hiking the uplands, a well-designed sporting clays course awaited participants. While 30 mile per hour winds that day made the shooting particularly challenging for some, a fun and relaxing day was nevertheless had by all. |
| Outdoor Sporting Caucus Enjoys 8th Annual Trap Shoot |
On the evening of Wednesday, August 11th, the California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) hosted the 8th Annual California Legislature Outdoor Sporting Caucus Trap Shoot at the Cordova Shooting Center in Rancho Cordova. After a thorough talk on gun safety, participants eagerly hit the range under the close eye of a volunteer team of Hunter Education Instructors and Department of Fish and Game Wardens. For many who attended the event, it was their first time shooting or even handling a firearm. The trap and skeet shooting proved to be challenging, yet safe and enjoyable for seasoned pros and beginners alike. By the end of the evening, some participants were nursing a sore shoulder, but all were gleaming with accomplishment. This event drew a capacity crowd of 150 people – including Caucus co-chair State Senator Dennis Hollingsworth and Assembly Members Steve Knight, Tony Mendoza, Bill Berryhill, Chuck DeVore and Jose Solorio, numerous Capitol staff, and representatives from COHA member organizations and outdoor industry.
Below left: Assembly Member Steve Knight and Senator Dennis Hollingsworth enjoying their evening at the Caucus Shoot. Below right: Assembly Members Chuck DeVore and Bill Berryhill prepare to take their turn on the range. |
 
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