Sam

I have been hunting the southern units in AZ for 30 years. I saw my first set of Illegals when I was in grade school on a javelina hunt east of Douglas. Since that time time, I have see both armed and unarmed illegals. The impact these illegals have on the environment is incredible. Everyone ready this post knows this and I'm sure you are all disgusted. But, what many people don't think about is the impact these illegals have on society. For the past 16 years, I have worked in education, as a high school teacher, coach and counselor. You know were the kids of these drug smugglers and illegals end up - right next to yours in class. It is incredible how many illegals go through our school system - and we can't do a thing about it. Now, granted, I would rather have an educated illegal rather than an uneducated. However, when our class sizes are 40 and our educators don't get paid worth a darn, I have a hard time going out on a limb for someone who doesn't even speak English. Help our Boarder Patrol as much as possible. Let Sheriff Joe do his job and give our schools power to educate Americans. And yes, I have a late November tag in 36A - hoping for the best!

I have lived in Arizona all of my 41 years, actually tomorrow I will be 41. I got my first shotgun when I was 9 and I have been hunting big game since I was 10 years old. Fishing a few years earlier. So, I have been supplying revenue to the Game and Fish Department for at least 31 years - application fees, tag fees, licenses; not to mention all the taxes that came from the purchases of hunting, archery and fishing related items. I have 15 bonus points for antelope, been putting in since high school. No tag yet. I also did an unpaid internship for the GFD while in college - 2 months hiking around southern Arizona. Well, that actually was worth it, pay or no pay. I would love to see some type of extra bonus point given to long time supporters. Here is another question I will throw out to you guys. What about setting aside a limited number of tags for people who hold a Pioneer License? Or having a special hunt? We have many opportunities for the youth - which I am thankful for; my daughter pulled a cow elk tag last year, we need these hunts. But, these older guys and gals have supported our state wildlife for years, why not give them a few more hunts before it is too late. Personally, my Dad, who is 73, can't wait another 7 years for another elk tag. His last antelope tag was in 1975!!! Let's do something to help these guys - one day, we will all be there, holding a Pioneer license. Our time will come.