Joe Manchin III, Governor

Frank Jezioro, Director

News Release : May 12, 2005

Hoy Murphy , Public Information Officer (304) 558-3380 hoymurphy@wvdnr.gov

Contact: Curtis Taylor, Wildlife Resources Section Chief (304) 558-2771 wildlife@wvdnr.gov

Fourth Annual Wheelin' Sportsmen Fun and Learn Day

To be held at Mountwood Park June11

  The West Virginia State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation and the Division of Natural Resources will host the Fourth Annual Wheelin' Sportsmen Fun and Learn Day on June 11, 2005 at Mountwood Park located in Wood County .

  "Disabilities present a unique challenge to those with an outdoor interest," said Randy Benear, Wheelin' Event Coordinator and member of the Governor's Physically Challenged Advisory Board. "Wheelin' Sportsmen events, such as the Fun and Learn Day, are designed to promote awareness for overcoming barriers that prevent or limit the disabled from getting out and enjoying the outdoors. The Fun and Learn Day is an event with several activities promoting education, recreation and disability awareness."

  Activities for the Wheelin' Sportsmen Fun and Learn Day event include: fishing, shotgun shooting, archery, nature walks, turkey calling, and trap shooting. Anyone with a disability is invited to participate in this free event. Participants will receive a free lunch, free membership to the Wheelin' Sportsmen Organization, and be eligible for several door prizes.

  "As a hunter, angler and outdoor enthusiast, I want to do everything possible to preserve our wildlife heritage," Benear said. "Because I am disabled, I am very passionate about promoting recreational opportunities for the disabled. Based on the success from this event, I think we have a good start in fulfilling both missions."

  Anyone interested in participating in this program is required to pre-register by emailing Randy Benear at rbenear@charter.net .

**DNR**