By Larry S. Moore

The League of Ohio Sportsmen recently held their 101st annual convention in Marietta, Ohio. I attended for a portion of the conference and the evening banquet. In addition to talking sportsmen and conservation club leaders from around Ohio, I wanted to hear Rob Portman's key note address. Portman is the announced Republican candidate for the Senate seat being vacated by Senator George Voinovich. I was aware of Portman's previous service as a Congressman from the Ohio Second District, Director of the federal Office of Management and Budget plus Trade Director. I wanted to hear what Portman had to say about sportsmen issues.

Portman provided some personal background noting, "I have been an avid outdoorsman my entire life, and I am glad to be here to support the League and the good work you do. I'm a lifelong hunter and fisherman, and a gun who believes I have a right to use firearms responsibly. As you may know, the NRA looked at all the votes I made during my 12 years in Congress regarding the Second Amendment, gave me an A rating. I remember that because I didn't get too many A's in high school or college." Portman, who is an attorney and well educated, drew a laugh.

Buckeye Firearms Association would like to make its members and supporters aware of two Youth Essay Contest opportunities, offering awards including $1000 Savings Bonds, wild turkey hunts with sporting celebrities, and for one winner, a hunt with Ohio Governor Ted Strickland.