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Governor Ted Strickland enjoyed a day in the field on Saturday, May 10, during the first-ever Governor's Annual Turkey Hunt. The event, which took place in Muskingum and Coshocton counties, included current and former NFL players who partnered with nationally known hunting guides on an outing with 11 area youths.
The hunt dovetailed with the kickoff of Explore the Outdoors, a statewide effort to promote youth and outdoor recreation. The event also highlighted Ohio’s premier wild turkey hunting opportunities, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.
"Most of us, myself included, ended up being reminded that having a great hunt doesn't always involve getting a bird," said ODNR Director Sean D. Logan. "It was a beautiful Ohio spring morning, outdoors with old friends and new friends, seeing the sun rise and listening to the woods come alive. What more could you ask?"
Each group of hunters had the opportunity to hear wild turkey "gobbles." Some hunters spotted birds in the field. Participating youth went home with celebrity autographs, hunting gear provided by the hunt sponsors, newly forged friendships and lifelong memories of the event.
Many professional football players from the Cincinnati Bengals hunted with the youth, including Eric Ghiaciuc and Jordan Palmer. Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer and former Bengal Eric Ball participated. Current Philadelphia Eagle and Ohio native Trent Cole was also on hand for the hunt. Nationally known turkey caller and TV personality Walter Parrott acted as one of the guides, as did Hunter Specialties pro-staffer Alex Rutledge.
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