OK, so I'm not in the habit of "harvesting" birds out of the sky. I tend to prefer that they stay there floating in the clouds, blissfully unaware of our crazy human world and the controversy surrounding a certain phone call to the Ukraine. I feel the same way about fish in the stream and deer in the woods. I’m not a big burly hunter or a decked-out angler who dreams about rainbow trout. I’m far more likely to trade a baseball card than tie a fly.

So, it might seem strange that I'm writing to you today about a pheasant hunt fund-raiser.

But then you need to remember where I live now. The Ozarks of Southern Missouri. This is hunting and fishing paradise. People come from all over the world to pursue the game that fills our forests and streams. The Conservation Department depends upon it. The state budgets for it. It's a very important source of revenue. Michigan has cars. Idaho, the potato. We got game. 

And if you want to get people involved in a fundraiser for a boy’s ranch like Whetstone, you'll find more people willing to participate if you offer them an event like this. Thus was born the WBR Sportsmans Classic!

Now in its 6th year, this event has generated over $200,000 for the ranch and the work we do with our boys. It's money that we have come to depend upon, honestly.  And now that we don't do a local golf tournament, it's our biggest annual fund-raising event. We need your support. 

I am not actually participating in the shoot this year, but that won't stop me from trying to raise money for a good cause. And this isa good cause. Maybe not as good as Anigo Montoya’s in The Princess Bride, but still, good. 

And I know some of you are just waiting for the opportunity to give to Whetstone. Well here’s your chance! I am trying to raise 5,000 in two weeks, so every little bit helps.  

Check out the WBR Facebook page to see what’s going on around here lately. I’m sure you’ll see something that will inspire you to part with a few Washingtons, or Hamiltons, or Grants, or maybe even Benjamins.  

Now someday, I truly believe the lion and the lamb will lie down together. We'll beat our swords into plowshares, and enjoy a feast together.  

But for now, we are given permission to partake of the earth's bounty. And so I’m asking humbly for you to join in sharing some of your bounty as well. 

(I’m asking you to give money in case that wasn’t clear enough.  As much as you can! Follow this link to find out how.) 

Sincerely, 

Axel