They continue to do nothing to help Ontario's outdoorsmen.  Don't be misled by what's published on their web page.  All the OFAH does is issue press releases. They refuse to stand with ANY firearms or outdoor groups to support the repeal of any federal firearms legislation.  Ask them where they were during the "Rally for Canada" activities. They were completely absent!

 

And what about those press releases?  Almost every month, they are "alarmed by", "disagree with" or "object to" further restrictive legislation that concerns hunting and shooting.  Funny, so am I!  The trouble is, talk is cheap and that's all the OFAH does when it comes to firearms legisilation. 

 

Do you live in southern Ontario? You're in a particularly money rich area that the OFAH likes to milk. Lookout in 2009!  In these tough economic times, don't be fooled by their sales pitches. The only thing they seem to care about is their own corporate bottom line. 

 

Money will be an issue for them this year - but NOT for conservation issues. Don't let them snow you with claims they need cash to save the animals or wildlife habitat.  They recently bought Ontario Out of Doors magazine and will be strapped for funds.  They'll be anxious to get into your wallet.

 

It's sad to say, but they have rejected calls by their own members and other groups to stand together and fight for our hunting rights.  It seems that they'd rather buy magazines.  Is that financially responsible?  It will be interesting to hear the excuses they'll use.  They have lost touch with the very people they claim to serve. 

 

You have to ask, just who is serving who?

 

If your club is affliated with the OFAH, ask your membership director why you were not given a choice about becoming a member, then ask him to reconcider. Did you know that the only way to opt out of the OFAH is to quit your local club?  That's right!  That is exactly what the OFAH forces people to do, should you decide not to pay them their cut.  It's shameful.  It was done this way to keep the money flowing.  And believe me, they want that money! They do not respect your wishes at all.  Don't believe me?  Ask your membership chairman!

 

While you're at it, ask your membership chairman who collects all the OFAH dues, who compiles the lists and submits the money!  Peterborough has individual clubs, that includes your club, doing all their work.  And believe me, the money is great!  Local clubs get the collection duties, take all the complaints and complete every adminstrative chore.  You should ask your club to quit the OFAH and put your money towards more responsible, effective causes.

 

What about shooting insurance?  Every club needs it.  You DO NOT need to buy the OFAH package to get good coverage.  In fact, there are far better and cheaper alternatives to the OFAH's secondary policy.  Ask your shooting director to check in with the NFA www.nfa.ca or the CSSA www.cdnshootingsports.org for more information about insurance. Both these organizations offer better policies that pay out immediately, in the event of an accident.

 

I know that all clubs wish to support conservation organizations.  I would suggest that you look at Ducks Unlimited, the Canadian Outdoor Heritage Association or a local effort in your area as better, more viable alternatives.  Save a river or stream.  Look after or create deer feeding areas.  Work with your local government or school board to improve feeding and watering places like parks or wilderness trails.  Have a serious discussion with club members and executives and find better causes to fund.  You can help wildlife, the environment and save your own money too!  Don't give it away to the OFAH!

 

Finally, let's remember, if we lose our firearms, there will be no hunting.  The OFAH doesn't care about that.  They have already proven they do not care.  How?  They do not stand with other pro hunting organizations.  They ignore calls from their own membership.  All they do is publish letters and that is not going save us.  

 

After buying Ontario Out of Doors magazine, they have that to pay for as well.  They will be especially active in 2009, looking for money.  Be wary!  Like the television commercial says, "Hands in your pockets, hands in your pockets, hands in your pockets!".  They'll be pushing hard this year to separate you from your cash. 

 

Please stand with people that wish to preserve our hunting and shooting heritage. Don't let inaction destroy your sport!  

 

Say no to the OFAH.