On Tuesday, October 15, 2002 the first annual membership meeting of the Delta Outdoor and Wildlife Association was held at the Jim Bowie Relay Station Restaurant near Enterprise, La. This association is dedicated to developing and marketing outdoor recreational opportunities, promoting economic diversification, and environmental/resources sustainability in Northeast and North Central Louisiana

A more pristine location couldn't have been found for a meeting of this nature, which concerned nature. The eatery, built out of native cypress, is located a rock's chunk from the historic Duty Ferry on the scenic Ouachita River in northern Catahoula Parish. This rustic family-owned and operated bistro is devoted to making one feel relaxed, and ready to enjoy delightful home-style dining.

After a great menu choice meal, with catfish and butterfly shrimp entré options, and home-grown country music by the owner John Ed Bartmess' son-in-law, the meeting was called to order by interim President Howard Gryder. He announced that in the near future an election would be held to replace the present interim officers and board with permanent directors slated to serve one-year terms. Special guests recognized at this time were Dr. Ken Roberts and LSU State Specialist in Forest Economics, Dr. Mike Dunn.

Steve Hotard, Area Forestry Agent from the LSU Ag Center discussed the new 2002 Delta Outdoors and Wildlife Association Resource Guide. This handy 12-page compilation presents an index of natural resource recreational facilities covered by the NOWA membership. Included are lists of hunting and fishing sites, lodging, hunting and fishing supply sources, and even a list of sites for bird watching devotees.

Then Gryder introduced Cynthia Pilcher from Columbia, La., who is a rep of Community Economic Development at the LSU Ag Center, who in turn introduced Kay Lynn Tettleton from Community Economic Development headquartered at Calhoun, La. The ladies took turns highlighting plans for two different tourism inducement events aimed at drawing attention to the Northeast quadrant of the State. One function is Retirees Recruiting Tours scheduled for April 2003, which will hopefully escort a group of over 200 retired persons on a tour of Newellton, Lake Providence and Poverty Point.

Another tour will cover Vidalia, Ferriday and Frogmore Plantation east of Jonesville, La.

Kay Lynn then shared information of a gala annual event planned for presentation in the Fall of 2003 called Sustainable Long Term Trade Days to be hosted at the recently renovated Delhi Livestock Center. It will be patterned after the Bonnie and Clyde Trade Days held every month in Arcadia, La. and the Canton, Texas perpetual Arts and Crafts Sales near Dallas, Texas.

The highlight of the evening's activities was the introduction of Wilbur Dale of Columbia, La. representing the Big Bucks of Louisiana Youth Programs L.L.C. and International Paper Company. He went on to explain the purpose of the organization, and that it is dedicated to raising money for maintaining property dedicated as hunting areas for handicapped, disabled and disadvantaged children. He lauded International Paper Company for being the major player in making this dream come true for many kids.

An annual Big Buck Contest is the main source of revenue for this organization. Money is raised through memberships, donations, raffles, games, and auctions held at banquet honoring the winners in the contest. To be eligible for the contests, one must be a Louisiana resident and become a member before the first day of deer season by paying a $40.00 membership fee. The prize awarded for the biggest buck will be a four-wheeler. Prizes will also be awarded for the biggest 4-point, 6-point, and total points.

Make checks payable to Big Bucks of Louisiana youth Programs, P.O. Box 772, Grayson, LA 71435.

Howard Gryder then announced the next meeting would be held on the First Tuesday in December at a site to be announced later. He also stated that an Outdoors Wildlife Festival is in the works. Urging everyone to be safe driving home, the meeting was dismissed.

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