Author: mookyj
How to Cook a Turkey Like an Engineer
My inner geek just had to share this one. I am sure that with a few modifications the modeling can be properly adapted to back straps, tenderloins and neck roasts. I am sure we can find an element model for a cast iron frying pan around here somewhere đ
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© 2013 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
9/11 â 12th Anniversary
Twelve years have passed marking the horrible events of 9/11. I have made it a point to comment each year as it passes. One would think that over time, the depth and impact of any event would soften, become more a matter of historical record, and less of an emotional response. I suspect like many of you, like myself felt the day coming on long before it got here. I woke this morning with some measure of sadness, and possibly another level of measure of anger.
Twelve years is a significant period of time to take it all in, digest it, and understand the what, whom, whyâs of the matter. Despite all that, despite wanting to be a forgiving member of the human race, it boils my blood as an American that there are those that rejoice in the attack and murder of our innocents. I can understand having positive feelings towards the death of those who commit heinous acts, but to be filled with happiness over the deaths of people that were simply going about their daily lives and in varying measures contributing to the greater good is incomprehensible.
They pick Boston, Bengazi, and wherever to commit these cowardly acts. All without justification are inflicted on innocent people. This is done in the absence of honor, heroism, duty to county. It is nothing short of a religious genocide against all non-believers. It is a scourge upon the human race. It is a twisted radical view to think that you must convert all people to your beliefs or kill them.
My anger in this is rooted partly in my ignorance. I was raised by very hard working and loving parents just like many of you. It is/was a blessing, and I never forget that. I was taught to gauge people for their actions, what they choose to do or not to do. Because of my upbringing, I donât care about your color, your slang, your religion (or no religion). I donât buy into the race baiting, the religious campaigns, any of that. I care that as I interact with you that you are moral person, that you strive to do good, and to contribute while spending time on the wonderful rock we call planet earth. I donât care if you are Muslin, Christian, Jew, ect. However use the suffix of radical in combination, I now have a problem.
My ignorance comes from that I cannot relate to killing, maiming someone for other political or religious views. I could opt for discussion, or even arguing, but it stops there. Would I like you to see my god as I do? Most certainly. If not, I will assume that you love yours as much as I do mine. If you are an atheist, fine as long as you believe in doing good in the world (those that I do know are as kind and good natured as you could ask for). I was taught the value of life, and how precious that gift is.
My other reasons for anger is our current administrations ineptness and the dancing around the âradical Muslimâ issue. Glad that Bin Laden was taken out, glad that the effort was not dropped between Bush and Obama. Like many of you, I want things to be called as they are, and not worry about offending their sensibilities or feelings. Identify the problem and fix it, we have heard enough, and had it up to our ears with posturing, and leadership via news polls. Current events stirs up many emotions over 9/11, opening up old wounds for our country.
I freely admit, I donât âgetâ the Middle East perspective. Our enemyâs there still hate us, our way of life, and the discussions about it go on forever. It is my hope that on one of these anniversaries that I can write about resolution, and healing. Given the thousands of years of conflict in the region, it may not occur in my lifetime.
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts returned to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm.
As you toe up on the start line of your favorite road race or triathlon or enjoy another fall season hunting our nationâs forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for our country.
Along with counting your blessings, say a prayer for all innocent victims, and that you do something on your part to make the world just a little bit better for those around you. We can all benefit from a little emphasis on acts of kindness.
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© 2013 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor MediaÂ
Upside Downside Of Being An Outdoors Prostaffer
Original published on FB:Â August 8, 2013 at 10:50am
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Whether it be a fishing or hunting focused position, the coveted position of âProstaffâ Â is banded about in many circles and generally sought after as highly desired postion. Itâs no surprise as who could deny the attraction of making a living or at least a part time income doing the very things you love and would otherwise shell out your hard earned dollars for. Viewed by many as a âwin-win.â
There are many subtleties and even more perspectives of this relationship when given the companyâs side of it versus the prostafferâs view. To complicate and muddy the waters even further you have varying degrees or levels of companies and that of prostaff. In each case, and where I assert are the pitfalls, are the compromises made to gain tangible items rather than having a âthis is a businessâ perspective. Again, the love of the outdoors and emotional connection is what is exploited and complicates the issues of prostaffing that plague the outdoor hunting and fishing industry.
Hanging with your homies with matching hats and shirts, swapping hunt escapades, and downing adult beverages sure is memorable fun, and where many friendships are made. However unless the outdoor company you represent, whether it be a game call company, sporting goods manufacturer, TV show, or guide service is something more akin to a club, or a hobby by the owner(s), a level of commitment and professionalism is expected. On the flip side, you have companies that range from multimillion dollar conglomerates down to grossly underfunded wanna-bees with so called business plans (if they actually have one). With such love for the sport you have lots of competition in the prostaffing space. This sets up an interesting dynamic of high interest, overhype in a much diluted market. There is money to be made, but it requires good business sense, a quality product/service, and well executed marketing plan. Having been in the industry for many years I have worked for a large distributor, quality product manufactures, a few game call entities and an unfortunate wanna-be category company.
On the upside, a good company will expect you to conduct yourself as educated, well spoken, and professional. This is universally true for all walks of life. This means professional in your personal life as well as not acting poorly on the sales floor at your local Bass-Pro, Cabelaâs, or local sports show. Personalities sometimes come into play, even so be the bigger person. Professionalism does not make exceptions because the other guy is a certified jerk. I left a well-known company for their tolerance of another staffer who qualified as âcertified jerk.â Not something to be associated with if you want a long career. Remember as a prostaffer you are always in the critical eye of the public while you represent the company. You are assumed that you belong in your position, to be knowledgeable and professional.
There are some companies that just want a warm body in the store. Being on the other side as a customer, when I walk up to a staffer and have specific questions on their product, I would hope they could tell me more than what I can gleam off of the company website. Do what you can to value add your position. Those who make the extra effort get noticed by future employers as well as appreciative customers. Taking this approach builds your brand, adds to your marketability, and value.
Better companies will compensate you by monetary means either as a 1099 entity or as an employee, sometimes with direct value in their product. Keep in mind that the company should know what it all takes to have you standing there at a show or store, and on your end what it cost you in expenses to do the same. compensation should cover your expenses and your time providing service. If it is an internship, this can be a golden opportunity to prove yourself and gain valuable insights that you cannot learn in school. In many cases you can transition to a professional prostaff position or as a direct employee.
Pitfalls on the prostaff side- the industry is saturated with game call companies, tv-video shows, guide services, etc, that are loaded with hype, grossly underfunded, to the point that basic business practices/expenses are ignored. This is where many friendships are exploited, and where the industry fails. For all the long hours in the field, or endless road-trips, countless shows, or hours spent on the computer, spreading the word, etc., you get maybe a hat, shirt, sometimes a free meal. Taking a look at it in a neutral perspective, many of these tasks are paid positions in other vocations. Even at minimum wage, folks that get caught up in this are donating or being taken advantage of for thousands of dollarsâ worth of work. Much of this is predicated on helping a friend, or promises of a piece of the company, or a free hunting trip, you get the idea. Recently I got burned on this very same situation by a long time so called friend, and the hours lost add up to thousands of dollars of professional services rendered. The warning signs were there, but because of a longtime friendship, I ignored them.
Even in the very best circumstances, as an outdoors professional you want to be professional on the business side as well, not just your conduct. If a company is worth working for, get it writing. Establish the specifics and be sure that the expectations are clear on both sides. Work agreements/contracts and non-disclosure agreements are common place among companies that have solid business practices, and look to avoid these problematic issues. In the end this approach will have you doing something that you truly love, and your business interests taken care of properly. As the saying goes: âWork at something you love, and you will truly never work a day again the rest of your life.â
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© 2013 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
9/11 â 11th Anniversary
Tomorrow marks the eleventh anniversary of 9/11. A fellow triathlete, Molly English-Bowers posted something yesterday on facebook that gave me cause to think and ponder. She wrote: âWatching 9-11 specials used to just make me sad. Now they also piss me off. So many missed opportunities.â That statement can lead oneâs thought in several directions. What if we had gotten Bin Laden earlier, is one direction. The direction I took, and what I found most significant in thought was the loss of âpotentialâ, âopportunitiesâ of each of those who perished. No doubt their families suffered this loss, Very likely the businesses that employed them suffered a significant loss of talent, and capabilities. It is true that as a society, we all suffer from this loss due to the death of all innocent victims. It is hard not to wonder eleven years later, what potential, or what great things or deeds that could have been realized had those planes never left the ground and the threat averted. All too often âthe good die youngâ
Each year I have commented on this occasion, and I find it prudent to repeat some of it here, as it accurately describes my thoughts:
Like many of my fellow runners, triathletes, and outdoorsmen, I am immersed in preparation for another season of racing, chasing wild turkeys, whitetails, and a ruffed grouse or two. I get to worry about lessor things. I have no doubt that my little worries would be considered things to dream about while camping out in a sand bunker in the Middle East. I grew up understanding and appreciating what our military does. It is not easy for most military families. The wars continue, many are now coming home. Many have come home to their final resting place. Many that serve us remain. As with all wars, young men and women give the ultimate sacrifice to our country, and afford us the freedoms we have.
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts returned to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm.
As you toe up on the start line of your favorite road race or triathlon or enjoy another fall season hunting our nationâs forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for their country.
Along with counting your blessings, say a prayer for all innocent victims, and that you do something on your part to make the world just a little bit better for those around you. With all the buzz these days about âcloudâ this, and âcloudâ that, A little emphasis on acts of kindness as a function of âcloudâ culture wouldnât hurt.
© 2011 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
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9/11 â A Decade of Honoring & Remembrance
Ten yearsâŠâŠâŠâŠ it has passed by so quickly. Having passed the half centurion milestone, I find my perspective of time compresses more than I care to admit. Each 9/11 since that horrific event, has at least for myself, been a day of mourning for those lost that day, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the ensuing wars that followed. I am most thankful that we have not suffered from a similar event since then. I have little doubt that given the chance, there are those that label many of us as âinfidelsâ would end my life by âany means necessary.â Of course I speak of those of extreme radical beliefs. Many sins are committed in the name of an extreme religious viewpoint. Throughout history, such atrocities are well documented. Such hatred of other persons, beliefs, and religions, are obscene, and offensive. Sadly none of this has gone away. The threat remains.
During the ten year anniversary we can have a small sigh of relief in knowing Bin Laden has been dealt with, much akin to âthe wicked witch is dead!â One less evil man walks the earth, and a measure of justice has been served. To our military we owe our thanks for their perseverance and professionalism, and to both administrations for seeing it through. Sadly, cutting the head of this snake will be cause to grow another. Terrorism is a reality we face.
Each year I have commented on this occasion, and I find it prudent to repeat some of it here, as it accurately describes my thoughts:
Like many of my fellow outdoorsmen, I am immersed in preparation for another season of chasing wild turkeys, whitetails, and a ruffed grouse or two. I get to worry about lessor things. I have no doubt that my little worries would be considered things to dream about while camping out in a sand bunker in the Middle East. I grew up understanding and appreciating what our military does. It is not easy for most military families. The wars continue, many are now coming home. Many have come home to their final resting place. Many that serve us remain. As with all wars, young men and women give the ultimate sacrifice to our country, and afford us the freedoms we have.
Especially while watching the coverage this past week. I found myself emotionally affected. As one of the most significant events in my lifetime, it is my hope that nothing like this or worse ever comes our way again.
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts returned to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm.
As you enjoy another fall season hunting our nationâs forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for their country.
© 2011 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Happy Father’s Day
To my father who we lost to Leukemia in 1999
I am grateful for all the lessons you taught by example, rather than by dictate. You taught me how to be a man, the importance of honor, respect, honesty, work ethic, and sacrifice. As I age, I have found myself to be more and more like you. I have come to a point where I better understand what was important to you when I was growing up. The fact you were a good man, and a great father are qualities to aspire to. In that thought I strive to do just that.
We lost you way to early and it is painfully unfair. There has been so much good that has occurred since your passing, and I am all too happy to report. It would have been grande to have you here to share it with.
Happy fatherâs day
Early Season Hunting Tips
In most areas of the great Empire State, things appear to be running a little late as far as wild turkeys go. Flocks have splitt up only in past few weeks, which is what one would expect first week of April.
In Central New York from which I call my stomping grounds, the woods are wide open, affording little cover or concealment for positioning on gobblers. Expect to find sizable harems and a lot of areas with a boss bird keeping gobbling to a minimum.
Patience is key! There should be some satellite two & three year old gobblers that may peel off to come check you out. This means being in the game at all times, to and from your vehicle, and not fidgeting around when not much is happening.
These satellite gobblers are likely to come in silent, or only give you a single cluck. The 2010 spring hatch was spotty in many areas, and you may find only few jakes to stir up the action. Opportunities during early season are likely to happen quickly.
If you donât have birds roosted, and are not waiting on them close and well before first light, you will have your work cut out for you. It will be a good week or more before there will be much green-up to conceal moving from spot to spot.
If you manage to get on to a bird early only to be defeated, it would be prudent to be back there again mid morning to see if he should return to check out that âmysteryâ hen he heard sweet talking to him hours earlier.
With the woods being very open, there will be many spots so open, that decoys would be well advised. Just like open fields, a gobbler will come in just far enough to see what he wants to see. Open woods are no different.
As with any good set up, if you can position yourself so that the gobbler will appear at the same time within shotgun or bow range, your chances for success increase dramatically. If you are unable to judge distance, a ranger finder that archers use will help you to do this properly.
As always: safety first! Do not hide in cover, or position your decoys so that you may be compromised should an unethical hunter decide to stalk your position. Just as in defensive driving, take it upon yourself to avoid a potential mishap, and place your decoy 20-25 yards out, and where you can spot an incoming hunter. A good reminder to all: DO NOT STALK HEN CALLS!
For those that may use a gobble shaker, or other gobble call, do only in safe areas to do so. Same goes for gobbler decoys. While I am on my high horse, there is a product on the market that is essentially a decoy that mounts on your gun barrel for the purpose of stalking up on a bird. In many states the act of stalking a wild turkey while hunting is illegal. I cannot begin to describe how many safety issues and problems there are with using this product.
All I can say to those that would insist on legitimizing and using it: I would love to buy you an insurance policy with myself as the beneficiary.
Last but not least, move through your hunting grounds much like a hunter who still hunts for deer, especially with the lack of cover. Run and gun, may not be a great strategy the first week.
Another key to success during the opening week is active scouting while hunting. You may not get on to a gobbler first thing, but each bit of information, clues, and sign that you come across may be the ticket for putting a successful plan in place.
Be safe, shoot straight!
© 2011 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
Last minute tips for 2011 New York Spring Turkey Season
In most areas of the great Empire State, things appear to be running a little late as far as wild turkeys go. Flocks have split up only in past few weeks, which is what one would expect first week of April. In Central New York from which I call my stomping grounds, the woods are wide open, affording little cover or concealment for positioning on gobblers. Expect to find sizable harems and a lot of areas with a boss bird keeping gobbling to a minimum. Patience is key! There should be some satellite two & three year old gobblers that may peel off to come check you out. This means being in the game at all times, to and from your vehicle, and not fidgeting around when not much is happening. These satellite gobblers are likely to come in silent, or only give you a single cluck. The 2010 spring hatch was spotty in many areas, and you may find only few jakes to stir up the action. Opportunities during early season are likely to happen quickly.
If you donât have birds roosted, and are not waiting on them close and well before first light, you will have your work cut out for you. It will be a good week or more before there will be much green-up to conceal moving from spot to spot. If you manage to get on to a bird early only to be defeated, it would be prudent to be back there again mid morning to see if he should return to check out that âmysteryâ hen he heard sweet talking to him hours earlier.
With the woods being very open, there will be many spots so open, that decoys would be well advised. Just like open fields, a gobbler will come in just far enough to see what he wants to see. Open woods are no different. As with any good set up, if you can position yourself so that the gobbler will appear at the same time within shotgun or bow range, your chances for success increase dramatically.
As always: safety first! Do not hide in cover, or position your decoys so that you may be compromised should an unethical hunter decide to stalk your position. Just as in defensive driving, take it upon yourself to avoid a potential mishap, and place your decoy 20-25 yards out, and where you can spot an incoming hunter. A good reminder to all: DO NOT STALK HEN CALLS!  For those that may use a gobble shaker, or other gobble call, do only in safe areas to do so. Same goes for gobbler decoys.
While I am on my high horse, there is a product on the market that is essentially a decoy that mounts on your gun barrel for the purpose of stalking up on a bird. In many states the act of stalking a wild turkey while hunting is illegal. I cannot begin to describe how many safety issues and problems there are with using this product. All I can say to those that would insist on legitimizing and using it: I would love to buy you an insurance policy with myself as the beneficiary.
Last but not least, move through your hunting grounds much like a hunter who still hunts for deer, especially with the lack of cover. Run and gun, may not be a great strategy the first week. Another key to success during the opening week is active scouting while hunting. You may not get on to a gobbler first thing, but each bit of information, clues, and sign that you come across may be the ticket for putting a successful plan in place.
Be safe, shoot straight!
© 2011 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
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Wildlife Energy Drink Review
I was recently sent a generous sample package of the 16oz drink product, and 2oz shots from Wildlife Energy for a web contest sponsored by The Sportsman Channel. I thought I would give a review, especially in the light of the fact that I really like the product. Currently I use other competitor products such as Red Bull, Monster, and Amp. Generally, I prefer the low calorie offerings. I found the taste to be similar to the competitor products. You either like them or you donât. I do, in fact I liked it better than other products. It gives the user an energy boost as you would expect to find in similar products. I found it to be every bit as good as advertised. This is good stuff. Great pick up, without the caffeine headache and jitters you get with too much coffee. You can get that with this product also, but you would have to take way more of it than you should ever need. One of these should do it for you all day. It does help with endurance, focus, and does so without the bonk you get with sugared sodas. Like anything you might use, you donât want to overdo it with energy drinks. Having a good pick up is what you want, not to be way over edgy. Chasing gobblers while running ridges here in Cortland County all of May, runs me down, especially by the third and fourth weeks of the season. This is a great product to have on hand. I also run, and participate in multisports. The offerings from Wildlife energy will work very well for those pursuits. I gave the 2 oz shot product a test trial before a three mile run today with my two weimaraners, and found it to be a good pick me up, without overdoing it. Which is a good thing as my dogs love to run. During my day job I work as an CMOS Imager Design & Layout Engineer, looking at two 24â screens all day. Too much coffee is an all too common occurrence. Wildlife energy drink is a perfect alternative to stay focused and on top of your game without the side effects of too much Java. From their website one should note: Purchasing Wildlife Energy Drink, consumers are also helping to support Wildlife Conservation projects. Wildlife Energy Drink annually donates a portion of its proceeds to outdoor conservation programs. That is a win-win for all of us. If you use energy drinks or thinking on giving them a try I recommend the product from Wildlife Energy, and urge you to give them a try!
Record Book Boss gobbler tagged during 2010 Cortland Limb Hangers Chapter Annual Womenâs Hunt
Truxton, New York, USA, Saturday, October 30th, 2010-â A New York record book gobbler was harvested by Jenifer Zolla of Truxton, New York, during the Annual Women In The Outdoors (WITO) hosted by the Cortland Limb Hangers NWTF Chapter & Rolling Ridges Guides & Outfitters. JenââŠs gobbler sported 1-3/8â & 1-1/4â spurs, swung a 9-15/16â beard, and weighed an even 19lbs. The gobbler scored 65.1250 as a typical bird using the NWTF scoring system. Jenâs bird ties for #5 typical harvest by a female hunter in New York.
Saturday morning hunt began with Jen accompanied by Bret Eccleston (current NWTF New York State chapter president, Owner of Rolling Ridges), and Mike Joyner (past NWTF New York State chapter president, Outdoor Writer & author). After a uneventful first set up, a group of gobblers (8) were spotted along a field edge bordering a creek. The gobblers were fighting and strutting, and carrying on as they might in the spring before season. Another small group of five hens and juveniles stood back 20-30 yards watching the show. A plan was made to make a big loop and come up thru a small stand of pines to gain position on the two flocks. While executing the plan, a third flock had already moved up into the pines and spotted the approaching huntress with guides in tow. A few kee-kees from Mike stopped a few of the retreating birds (out of range), but only temporarily. The third flock ran back away from the field and did so without alarming the other two flocks. A lucky break!
Continuing on, Bret & Mike got Jen up to where she needed to be, and the flock of gobblers were spotted still fighting and chasing each other out in the field. After what seemed to be very long few minutes, the gobblers closed to within range. Jen acquired target lock on the big boy (beard was swinging as he walked), and dropped the hammer. Mike then made a pro guide move. While reacting in a lightning fast dead run to reach the downed gobbler, ran straight into a barbed wire fence. After extending the fence 4-5ft, Mike was reacquainted with the laws of physics and abruptly returned to original point of contact. Jen (much smarter) decided to go over the fence and reached the gobbler first. Mike and Bret made it there shortly after once Mike was unfasten from the fence. A little humor for the event.
Once the team regrouped it was learned what a huge gobbler Jen had harvested. A dandy bird for spring or fall season! Jen had filled her first tag the day prior with guide Jeff Sayre, and was now tagged out for the season. A big congrats to Jen for her successful outing.
Each fall season the Cortland Limb Hangers NWTF Chapter and Rolling Ridges Guides & Outfitting service host the annual WITO event providing opportunities for women to try fall turkey, bow hunting, goose, pheasant and small game hunting. The event is conducted with a family atmosphere of good food, good friends, and guides throughout the weekend.
For information on 2011 event contact Trish or Bret on the following facebook links:
http://www.facebook.com/trish.kelsey?ref=mf
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001617934527&ref=mf
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