Benelli USA Names Sales Representatives of the Year for 2016

 

ACCOKEEK, Md. (January 31, 2017) – Benelli USA recently recognized the exceptional performances of its sales team in 2016 when it named its sales representatives of the year and other prestigious award winners.

 

Awards were given to sales representatives based on a host of criteria, including the completion of sales goals and personal contributions to the overall success of Benelli USA and its family of brands, which includes Benelli, Franchi, Stoeger, Uberti USA and Stoeger Airguns.

 

“It’s a priority for us to recognize and celebrate the successes of our sales representatives,” said Benelli USA Director of Sales and Channel Management JP Fischer of the awards, which were presented during the 2017 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. “This is just one more way we can show our appreciation for the many things they do for us.”

 

Benelli USA named a Sales Representative of the Year for each of its five brands. In addition, the company named Chase Spurgin the Benelli USA Sales Representative of the Year, recognizing him for his strong performance across all brands in 2016. One group award, Benelli USA Agency of the Year, went to Owen J. Brown & Associates.

 

Gary Witherspoon received the prestigious Super Black Eagle Award from Benelli USA in addition to being named the Uberti USA Sales Rep of the Year. The Super Black Eagle Award is the highest honor given to Benelli USA sales reps and is awarded to the individual who had an exceptional sales year and best embodied the spirit and values of Benelli USA as evidenced through their passion for the outdoors and a commitment to collaboration and integrity.

 

“Gary has been doing this a long time and doing it the right way,” Fischer said. “He maintains wonderful relationships handling major accounts and had a great year overall. Gary is a person who is a model for others seeking success in this industry.”

 

Super Black Eagle Award: Gary Witherspoon

Benelli USA Sales Representative of the Year: Chase Spurgin

Benelli USA Agency of the Year: Owen J. Brown & Associates

Benelli Sales Representative of the Year: Jeff Woods

Benelli Law Enforcement Sales Representative of the Year: Tom Dirik

Franchi Sales Representative of the Year: Jonathan Raasch

Stoeger Sales Representative of the Year: Christian Larsen

Uberti USA Sales Representative of the Year: Gary Witherspoon

Stoeger Airgun Sales Representative of the Year: Trevor Gathman

About Benelli USA

Benelli USA is a world leader in manufacturing quality semiautomatic shotguns and rifles that are known for their ultra-reliability and high-performance standards. For the latest news and product information visit www.benelliusa.com.

 

DSC and DSCF to Fish and Wildlife: African Leopard Up-Listing Not Warranted

DALLAS – DSC and DSC Foundation (DSCF) have joined a long list of conservation and hunting groups in submitting a united and official comment to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for the Endangered Species Act (ESA) status review of the African leopard. Conservation Force, a leading non-profit conservation organization, submitted the comment on behalf of DSC, DSCF, Houston Safari Club, African Professional Hunters Association, International Professional Hunters Association, Professional Hunters Association of South Africa, Shikar Safari Club International and Shikar Safari Club International Foundation.   The information contained within the official comment demonstrates that the African leopard (Panthera pardus) should not be up-listed to “endangered” as defined in the ESA in countries where it is currently listed as “threatened. The comment also contends that a “threatened” listing is not warranted in the South African Development Community countries, which form a distinct population segment and the most abundant leopard population in the world.   “As leaders in the conservation arena, we have put forth relevant information and data for the Service to determine the future of the African leopard and its associated hunting,” said DSC Executive Director Ben Carter. “The best information available shows that none of the listing factors are satisfied and the Service should find that an up-listing is not warranted. As hunters and conservationists, it’s our duty to provide this crucial information and hope the Service remains indifferent to the vitriolic rhetoric from anti-hunting groups who only want to see our proud heritage outlawed.”   The comment resulted from the Service receiving a petition from an anti-hunting group to up-list the leopard from “threatened” to “endangered” in certain countries. The Service began a 90-day, fact-finding period, in which they determined that “the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that reclassifying the leopard (Panthera pardus) as endangered throughout its range may be warranted.” The Service opened up a comment period to collect information relevant to determining if the species falls within the definition of the ESA.   The information contained in the group’s official comment shows that the leopard’s habitat is generally stable or increasing in the relevant countries, and that legal utilization of the leopard is sustainable and regulated, and well under the quotas set forth by CITES. The comment also highlights the lack of disease and predation; the existing regulatory mechanisms are more than adequate to protect the leopard and secure its survival; and no other natural or man-made factor poses a risk of endangerment to the species.   “The evidence is clear that none of the factors support or warrant reclassification of the African leopard,” said DSCF President Richard Cheatham. “The conclusions stated in the comment are founded in reason and fact, and reason and fact – rather than emotion, hyperbole and speculation – must govern the debate and must dictate the outcome. DSC Foundation urges the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to make a 12-month finding that up-listing of the African leopard is unwarranted.”   The official comment can be read in its entirety at this link:  http://www.conservationforce.org/news-updates-alerts

About DSC A member of IUCN, DSC is a mission-focused conservation organization, funded by hunters from around the world. With an administrative staff of less than 15 and a volunteer army of 500, DSC hosts the Greatest Hunters Convention on the Planet™ that raises funds for grants in conservation, outdoor education and hunter advocacy. In the past five years, more than $5 million has been channeled to qualified projects, organizations and programs in support of that mission. Get involved with DSC at www.biggame.org.   About DSCF  DSC Foundation is a non-profit corporation organized under section 501c3 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. DSC Foundation serves the mission of DSC to conserve wildlife and wilderness lands, to educate youth and the general public and to promote and protect the rights and interests of hunters worldwide. Learn more about DSC Foundation at www.dscf.org.

Ranger Boats Introduces New Aluminum Deep V Line

Multiple sizes, configurations offered for a variety of angling needs     FLIPPIN, Ark. (January 31, 2017) – Ranger Boats, the nation’s largest manufacturer of premium fiberglass fishing boats, today announced an all-new line of aluminum Deep V models designed for multi-species anglers across the country. The new designs, available in 16-, 17- and 18-foot models offering multiple configurations, will begin shipping to dealerships later this month.     “We’re excited to expand our aluminum product offering with these new Deep V models,” said Ranger Boats Sales Manager Mark Zwicker. “It’s the perfect fit for multi-species anglers looking for the same craftsmanship and attention to detail associated with all Ranger designs in a versatile package complete with an ultra-accessible price point.”     The new Ranger Deep V line consists of nine total models ranging in length from 16′ 8″ to 18′ 8″.  Specifically, this includes the 1682WT, 1682DC, 1682SC, 1782WT, 1782DC, 1782SC, 1882WT, 1882DC and 1882SC models. As indicated by model designators, single-console, dual-console and walk-thru windshield configurations are available. The designs are manufactured in the company’s state-of-the-art facility in Lebanon, Missouri, and benefit from an industry-leading powder coat paint process for greater durability and improved aesthetics.     Like all Ranger aluminum designs, each model features 100-percent welded, all-aluminum construction with an abundance of closed-cell foam flotation. Combined, these characteristics deliver a noticeably smoother, quieter ride and help the designs stand out among other aluminum products on the market. In addition, each model features Ranger’s custom fiberglass console and premium, marine-grade upholstery.    Another hallmark of Ranger designs can be found in the long list of standard equipment included on each of these new models. This includes a Minn Kota trolling motor, Lowrance electronics, on-board battery charger, factory-installed stereo, hydraulic steering, pull-up tie cleats, non-skid cockpit flooring and dual livewell/baitwells. Each model is also available with a wide range of factory rigged outboards.       The new Deep V models also come standard with a four-inch channel steel frame Ranger Trial® trailer. Designed and built specifically to fit the boat’s hull for solid and easy towing, the trailer offers a swing-away tongue, waterproof lights, swing jack and durable Road Armor finish, designed to shield against rock chips, road debris and other hazards.    The new Deep V models are competitively priced for a variety of budgets and are backed by one of the strongest warranties in the industry. For more information on the new line, customers are encouraged to visit www.rangeraluminum.com or call 800-373-BOAT (2628).

About Ranger Boats Headquartered in Flippin, Ark., Ranger Boats is the nation’s premier manufacturer of legendary fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats, with acclaimed models and series in the bass, multi-species, fish ‘n play, saltwater, waterfowl utility and pontoon boat segments. Founded in 1968 by Forrest L. Wood, Ranger Boats continues its commitment to building the highest-quality, strongest-performing boats on the water. For more information, go to RangerBoats.com, RangerAluminum.com or RangerPontoons.com.

DSC and DSCF Sign Memorandum of Understanding with Namibia

DALLAS – During the recent 2017 DSC Convention and Expo, members of DSC and DSC Foundation (DSCF) met with government officials from Namibia to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement formalizes the existing relationship between the parties. Both share a common concern for the future of Namibian wildlife as well as the desire for cooperation in the field of wildlife conservation.   DSC Executive Director Ben Carter and DSCF President Richard Cheatham met with Minister Pohamba Shifeta and three representatives from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism of the Republic of Namibia (MET). As part of the MoU, each party will seek to promote Namibia’s conservation hunting program, anti-poaching activities in national and state lands, to visit and exchange research and non-proprietary information, and to collaborate with continuing education and other training programs – all to promote conservation and wildlife.   “This signed agreement strengthens and advances the relationship between DSC, DSCF and MET to help Namibia continue to be a leader in wildlife and habitat conservation,” said Cheatham. “It will also increase DSC and DSCF’s support of existing programs that work so well and will allow the parties to develop and implement innovative programs that will address the ever-evolving conditions and conservation challenges faced in sub-Saharan Africa.”   Namibia has gained a favorable reputation for its sustainable-use practices and outstanding efforts in areas of wildlife management, conservation, and protection. At the IUCN World Congress in Honolulu this past summer, Namibia’s work was highlighted and hailed as an example to be followed by the rest of the world.   The MET recognizes DSC as a leader among conservation organizations who shares Namibia’s commitment to wildlife, wild places, sustainable use and financially supports projects that directly benefit wildlife and local communities. Through collaboration and concerted conservation efforts, these groups are emerging as leaders on the forefront of wildlife conservation.

About DSC A member of IUCN, DSC is a mission-focused conservation organization, funded by hunters from around the world. With an administrative staff of less than 15 and a volunteer army of 500, DSC hosts the Greatest Hunters Convention on the Planet™ that raises funds for grants in conservation, outdoor education and hunter advocacy. In the past five years, more than $5 million has been channeled to qualified projects, organizations and programs in support of that mission. Get involved with DSC at www.biggame.org. About DSCF DSC Foundation is a non-profit corporation organized under section 501c3 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. DSC Foundation serves the mission of DSC to conserve wildlife and wilderness lands, to educate youth and the general public and to promote and protect the rights and interests of hunters worldwide. Learn more about DSC Foundation at www.dscf.org.

SIG SAUER® Partners with Operation Hat Trick™

SIG SAUER to Offer OHT Apparel to Support Recovering Service Members and Veterans      Newington, N.H. (January 30, 2017) – SIG SAUER, Inc. announces that it has partnered with Operation Hat Trick (OHT) to help raise awareness and support for the recovery of service members and veterans injured during combat. As part of the partnership, SIG SAUER will offer branded OHT headwear and T-shirts through its recently launched e-commerce website, sigsauer.com. A portion of the proceeds from each item sold will be donated back to OHT to support the organization’s ongoing mission of providing critical support to the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.      “SIG SAUER is extremely proud to launch a relationship of support with Operation Hat Trick,” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales. “SIG has a long history of support for those who serve and for our veterans. We provide support with our products, but just as importantly, we like to work with organizations that benefit these great Americans. Operation Hat Trick is a volunteer organization that has grown from humble beginnings to a wide reaching service organization, and we are proud to be part of that mission.”   Followers of the brand can select between three different men and women’s T-shirts featuring both the SIG SAUER and OHT logos. In addition, five new hats are also available through the SIG SAUER online store. By purchasing the new apparel, fans are able to contribute to select organizations that help wounded service members and veterans recover from their visible and non-visible combat injuries.   First established in 2008 at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), OHT started as a program that delivered free hats to wounded veterans in VA hospitals. The name Operation Hat Trick comes from the initial focus of hats, with a nod to the university’s rich hockey history. The program was started by Dot Sheehan, a senior athletic director at UNH, as a way to honor local veterans. When tragedy shook UNH with the death of two local Navy SEALs, Nate Hardy and Mike Koch, who died while serving in Iraq, Sheehan was inspired by the sacrifices made between the two friends and OHT launched itself into the national scene. OHT shares an exclusive partnership with global sports lifestyle brand,’47, and other select licensees, academic institutions, sport leagues, retailers and corporations.   To learn more about the story behind the cause, visit operationhattrick.com.

About SIG SAUER, Inc. SIG SAUER, Inc. is The Complete Systems Provider™, leading the industry in American innovation, ingenuity, and manufacturing. SIG SAUER® brings a dedication to superior quality, ultimate reliability, and unmatched performance that has made it the brand of choice among responsible citizens, and many of the world’s most elite military, government, and law enforcement units. SIG SAUER offers a full array of products and services to meet any mission parameter, including handguns, rifles, ammunition, optics, suppressors, ASP (Advanced Sport Pellet) airguns and training. The largest member of a worldwide business group of firearms manufacturers that includes SIG SAUER GmbH & Co. KG in Germany and Swiss Arms AG in Switzerland, SIG SAUER is an ISO 9001: 2008 certified company with more than 1,400 employees. For more information on SIG SAUER, any of its products, or the SIG SAUER AcademySM log on to www.sigsauer.com.

Episode Two of “Benelli Presents To Kill a King” Debuts Monday Night on Outdoor Channel

ACCOKEEK, Md. (January 27, 2017) – Episode Two of “Benelli Presents To Kill a King,” the final chapter of a waterfowl hunter’s trip into one of the world’s most inhospitable environments, debuts at 9 p.m. EST on Monday, January 30 on the Outdoor Channel.

 

“Benelli Presents To Kill a King” follows Tony Vandemore, co-owner and operator of Habitat Flats, from his Missouri home to the frigid shores of the Bering Sea in search of the fabled King Eider. The final episode of the two-part series explores this unforgiving region that few have experienced, taking viewers to the edge of the world to witness one of the most difficult hunts ever documented.

 

Hunting off the coast of St. Paul Island, the most remote of the Pribilof Islands located 300 miles off the coast of Alaska, Vandemore and crew battle dangerously low temperatures, angry seas and extreme weather fluctuations that test the endurance of man and equipment alike – the ideal proving ground for the newly released Benelli Super Black Eagle 3.

 

Co-sponsored by HEVI-Shot and Under Armour, “Benelli Presents To Kill a King” also profiles the unique individuals who hunt the Bering Sea and delivers an in-depth look at the gear that keeps hunters safe and successful in such a harsh location. Episode Two will debut on Outdoor Channel at 9 p.m. EST on Monday, January 30, and will re-air at 9 p.m. EST on Saturday, February 4. 

“Benelli Presents To Kill a King” Airtimes

    

Outdoor Channel

Episode Two: 9 p.m. EST on Monday, January 30 (re-airs 9 p.m. EST on Saturday, February 4)    

To learn more about “Benelli Presents To Kill a King” or for more information about Benelli products, go to  http://www.benelliusa.com. 

DSC Convention Continues to Set Records for Attendance and Fundraising

DALLAS – Attendees from around the world gathered in the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, to celebrate hunting and wildlife conservation. The latest DSC Convention and Expo continued its record-breaking ways with more than 60,000 attendees during the four-day event. The convention featured 1,836 booths with 980 companies and 4,900 exhibitors.   “Our convention serves not only as a way to gather like-minded people under one roof, but to help raise money to fund our conservation and education efforts,” said DSC Executive Director Ben Carter. “The DSC convention has grown steadily each year and this year was no exception. We raised more than $7 million dollars to fund our mission to save wildlife and wild spaces. We would like to thank all those that attended and donated to our cause.”    The DSC Convention added around 360 new members and 250 renewals, of which 29 made the commitment to become Life Members. Nightly banquets experienced record turnouts with the Saturday night banquet and Ladies Luncheon being sold out. The convention also hosted approximately 75 media members to cover the convention and book hunts for future editorial needs.   The DSC Convention also serves to honor those who share DSC’s mission and vision of a future that includes wildlife and hunting. Several awards were presented during nightly banquets throughout the convention. DSC honored the following:   Peter Hathaway Capstick Hunting Heritage Award: Larry and Brenda Potterfield DSC Outstanding Hunting Achievement Award: Bobby Davidson Weatherby Award: Ken Barr Conklin Award: Renee Snider Dixie Yeatts Award of Excellence: John Patterson Dave Baxter Literary Award: Ken Heard Educator of the Year: Danny Wilcox Colin Caruthers Young Hunter Award: co-winners Dalton Findley and Cole Findley Malek Award: Jay Furney Outfitter of the Year Award: Chifuti Safaris Artist of the Year Award: Peter Blackwell   The DSC Convention and Expo returns next year to the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Jan. 4-7, 2018, with even more attendance and fund-raising records expected to be broken as hunters and conservationists again rally to defend wildlife and habitat around the world.   Sponsors of the 2017 DSC convention include Sports Afield, Hornady, Bass Pro Shops, Zeiss Sport Optics, Midway USA, Shikar Safaris, Trijicon, EuroOptic, Boyt Harness Company, Yamaha Motor Corporation, Lone Star Outdoor News, Blaser, Capt. Peacock Yachts and Expeditions, Chattaronga, Capital Farm Credit, Global Rescue, Rock Island Auction Company, Legendary Consortium, Rungwa Game Safaris, RAD RIDES, Wildlife Partners LLC, Vogt Silversmiths, Triple G Group, Michael Mantheakis Safaris, David R. Oakes – CIMA, Sporting Classics and many others.

About DSC A member of IUCN, DSC is a mission-focused conservation organization, funded by hunters from around the world. With an administrative staff of less than 15 and a volunteer army of 500, DSC hosts the Greatest Hunters Convention on the Planet™ that raises funds for grants in conservation, outdoor education and hunter advocacy. In the past five years, more than $5 million has been channeled to qualified projects, organizations and programs in support of that mission. Get involved with DSC at www.biggame.org.

Texas Team Trail Presented by Cabela’s Opens Season on Sam Rayburn

Record payouts, exceptional fishing expected for first  TXTT event of 2017

NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. (January 24, 2017) – The Texas Team Trail (TXTT) presented by Cabela’s will host its first regular-season event of the 2017 tournament season on Saturday, Jan. 28, at Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Known by tournament fishermen as “Big Sam,” the sprawling Angelina River impoundment has hosted the opener each year, typically with impressive results.   Registration for the event is already underway – anglers can secure an opportunity to pre-fish Friday, Jan. 27, by completing their registration online or via phone prior to midnight on Thursday, Jan. 26. Additionally, all anglers that pre-register online at www.texasteamtrail.com will be entered into a drawing for a $100 Cabela’s gift card.      The Sam Rayburn event is the first regular-season event of four 2017 qualifying events that guarantee a fully rigged, 18-foot boat, motor, trailer package as first-place prize. The winning anglers at Sam Rayburn will walk away with a brand-new Stratos 189VLO powered by a 150HP Evinrude, valued at $32,395.   In addition to the payout, the event offers anglers an unprecedented opportunity in terms of sponsor bonuses and television coverage. The budget-friendly $250 entry fee, plus multiple contingency programs and a guaranteed, over-100 percent payback at every event provides tremendous value to the weekend angler.    On-site registration is set for Friday, Jan. 27, from 3-6 p.m. at Umphrey Pavilion (5438 RR 255 West, Sam Rayburn, TX 75951). At least one team member must attend, as boat numbers will be assigned during this time. The tournament will launch Saturday, Jan. 28, at safe light from Umphrey Pavilion and weigh-in will begin at the same location at 3 p.m.   Anglers with questions or anyone interested in more details on the event are encouraged to visit www.texasteamtrail.com or call 210-281-1752 or 210-788-4143.    Texas Team Trail events are made possible through the sponsorship and continued support of these well-respected brands: Cabela’s, Ranger Boats, Lucas Oil, RAM, Mercury, Minn Kota, Triton Boats, Power-Pole, Arctic Ice, Stratos Boats, Evinrude, Lowrance, Navionics, Protect the Harvest, BoatU.S., General Tire, SuperClean, Garmin, Valley Fashions, T-H Marine, Atlas, G-Juice, Powertex Group.   2017 TXTT scheduled events:   January 28 – Sam Rayburn Reservoir February 18 – Toledo Bend April 1 – Belton Lake April 29 – Lake Texoma   Championship   June 3-4 – Livingston Lake

DSC Objects to USFWS Order 219

Arbitrary Decision Impacts Recreational Hunting and Fishing

DALLAS – For his last hurrah before departing office, outgoing U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Director Daniel Ashe released USFWS Director’s Order 219, expanding the use of nontoxic ammunition and fishing tackle. Dallas Safari Club (DSC) objects to the Order, and condemns the decision as it targets our hunting and fishing heritage.   “This action flies squarely in the face of a long and constructive tradition of states working in partnership with the Service to effectively manage fish and wildlife resources,” stated Nick Wiley, president of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. “The Association views this Order as a breach of trust and deeply disappointing.”   “We agree wholeheartedly with Mr. Wiley and consider the surprising, last minute actions of Mr. Ashe to be totally politically motivated,” said Ben Carter, DSC executive director. “We will implore the new administration to swiftly abolish Order 219 and return to joint decision making based on scientific merit.”   DSC will appeal to the new leadership at the Service and support the states’ joint jurisdiction and control of wildlife management.

About DSC A member of IUCN, DSC is a mission-focused conservation organization, funded by hunters from around the world. With an administrative staff of less than 15 and a volunteer army of 500, DSC hosts the Greatest Hunters Convention on the Planet™ that raises funds for grants in conservation, outdoor education and hunter advocacy. In the past five years, more than $5 million has been channeled to qualified projects, organizations and programs in support of that mission. Get involved with DSC at www.biggame.org.

“Benelli Presents To Kill A King” Debuts Monday Night on Outdoor Channel

ACCOKEEK, Md. (January 20, 2017) – Experience waterfowl hunting in one of the world’s most inhospitable environments as Episode One of “Benelli Presents To Kill a King” debuts at 9 p.m. EST on Monday, January 23 on the Outdoor Channel. 

“Benelli Presents To Kill a King” follows Tony Vandemore, co-owner and operator of Habitat Flats, from his Missouri home to the frigid shores of the Bering Sea in search of the fabled King Eider.

 

On St. Paul Island, the most remote of the Pribilof Islands located 300 miles off the coast of Alaska, hunters battle dangerously low temperatures, angry seas and extreme weather fluctuations that test the endurance of man and equipment alike – an ideal proving ground for the newly released Benelli Super Black Eagle 3. “Benelli Presents To Kill a King” explores this unforgiving region that few have experienced, taking viewers to the edge of the world to witness one of the most difficult hunts ever documented.

Co-sponsored by HEVI-Shot and Under Armour, “Benelli Presents To Kill a King” will profile the unique individuals who hunt the Bering Sea as well as deliver an in-depth look at the gear that keeps hunters safe and successful in such a harsh location. Episode One will debut on Outdoor Channel at 9 p.m. EST on Monday, January 23, and will re-air at 9 p.m. EST on Saturday, January 28. Episode Two will air on Outdoor Channel at 9 p.m. EST on Monday, January 30, and re-air at 9 p.m. EST on Saturday, February 4.   

“Benelli Presents To Kill a King” Airtimes

    

Outdoor Channel

Episode One: 9 p.m. EST on Monday, January 23 (re-airs 9 p.m. EST on Saturday, January 28)
Episode Two: 9 p.m. EST on Monday, January 30 (re-airs 9 p.m. EST on Saturday, February 4)    

To learn more about “Benelli Presents To Kill a King” or for more information about Benelli products, go to  http://www.benelliusa.com.