Outdoorsmen, hunters, fishermen, and trappers are involved in the harvesting of animals, some see us as heartless people. That couldn't be further from the truth. Last week’s column opened the eyes of many in our community to this softer side of my people.

First of all, I would like to apologize to the Boy Scout group leader and Falconer, Dave Larnerd, for not showing up this weekend. I was supposed to go report on the troop and their experience hunting with a hawk and camping outdoors in the winter. Unfortunately, I had a horrible headache for a couple days which prevented me from joining them. I hope all had a great time and learned a lot of new stuff about the outdoors.

Most sportsmen that I know have a soft spot in their hearts for youth, elderly, and sick or disabled outdoorsmen. I personally can't say no to any of these groups if in need of outdoor assistance. I get so much joy out of watching and helping them, that at the end of the day, I feel I'm the one that's been rewarded. I also feel pretty low when I let someone or a group down as happened this weekend. I seek out people to help and feel privileged to do so. This happens to be my softest side.