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John McMillian, executive vice-president of the Alabama Forestry Association, was declared the winner of the 2006 Alabama Governor’s One-Shot Turkey Hunt, held March 20-22 in Montgomery. Governor Bob Riley hosted and participated in the celebrity hunt, which is an annual industrial recruiting event that also raises funds for hunting and conservation initiatives. Sponsored by the Alabama Conservation and Natural Resources Foundation, the hunt is an exciting event filled with food, fellowship, and friendly competition against the background of Alabama’s great outdoors.
McMillian was one of 80 hunters from 15 states to participate in this year’s event. Second place went to Hugh Nall of Auburn, AL, and third was Stuart Galbreath of Atlanta, GA
Governor Riley describes the hunt as an innovative mixture of business and recreation. “The Alabama Governor’s One-Shot Turkey Hunt accomplishes three things important to our state. First, it enhances our state’s image by putting Alabama in the global spotlight. Second, it helps strengthen relationships with existing Alabama industry leaders, and helps develop relationships with new industry prospects. Finally, it showcases Alabama as a preferred destination for hunting, fishing and other nature-based tourism – which is already a nearly $4 billion industry in this state.”
The Alabama Governor’s One-Shot Turkey Hunt also contributes to the future of wildlife management. Included in the three-day festivities is a scholarship to benefit students majoring in wildlife management at Auburn University.
Barnett Lawley, Foundation Chairman, announced the success of the event, “Through the generosity of sponsors and auction participants, the event helps raise funds for the Foundation and its worthwhile projects. This is an investment in education and an investment in the future of wildlife management. It is encouraging to know that many of America’s top corporate and government leaders are hunters.”
Hunting is big business in Alabama. In fact, Alabama ranks 9th in the nation in retail sales associated with hunting products. Hunters also contribute significantly to state and local economies. Estimates are that the Governor’s One-Shot Turkey Hunt generated nearly $1 million to the local economy of Montgomery and surrounding counties.
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