President’s Message – August 2020

Hi All,

I hope this message reaches you in good spirits as we all wrestle with a case of cabin fever.  Denise and I are airing on the side of caution while we enjoy our daughter being home.  Regrettably, her final senior semester at Auburn University was completed online but we are proud parents.

I deeply appreciate all the calls and text messages over the last few months.  Yes, it is quite the honor and pleasure to serve as the Houston Chapter President, and newly minted Director-at-Large for Safari Club International.  Yes, we continue to stay focused on our mission because now more than ever wildlife needs our unwavering support.  Yes, it is HOT in Texas!  These are just a few of the questions I am asked consistently.  Even during these bizarre times, the organization continues to focus on our mission to serve our membership and our conservation goals.  The multitude of challenges have been historical in nature, but I am a true believer that the Houston Chapter and SCI will come out the other side sharper and even stronger.  The scourge known as covid-19, economy shifts, multiple event cancellations, hunt postponements, social ailments, the congressional bill known as the Cecil Act and political posturing from every corner are enough to make lesser organizations cower in the corner.  The year 2020 will surely be one for the history books, and that final chapter cannot close soon enough.

There is also good news.  The latest legislation signed by President Trump known as the “Great American Outdoors Act” is now the law of the land.  This law supports conservation and extends recreational opportunities for all.  It will be key in protecting our hunting heritage well beyond our days afield.  It was great that SCI was present for the historical signing of the law.  In addition, the SCI Houston Chapter has an outstanding Board of Directors that have agreed to continue planning our calendar events as we navigate rocky shores at low tide.  We want to be proactive not reactive as opportunities to have an impact still exist.  Our 2020 annual banquet had to be cancelled due to social distancing guidelines but we look forward to having an online auction in the next few weeks to help support the conservation mission, stay tuned!  This years Christmas celebration generously hosted by Craig Phillips is still on the calendar as we hope for some smooth sailing by December.  Yes, we are always optimistic at the Houston Chapter.  In closing, I hope you enjoy this new digital newsletter as we believed this was a good time to change formats, and as always we look forward to your feedback.

Here to Serve,
Oscar D. Taylor,
President