(Houston, TX- May 20, 2024) Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is pleased to announce its partnership with their newest corporate sponsor, Copendero Indoor Archery, Pistol & Rifle Range.

Copendero offers a 32,000 square foot premier shooting experience. Their brand-new facility, located in Conroe, Texas, houses a 25-yard Shooting Range and a 25-yard Tactical Range. One of Copendero’s main attractions is their 100-yard, fully indoor rifle range. Fully enclosed 100-yard ranges are a rarity in the United States, and none of them are quite like Copendero’s. The 100-yard range is perfect for adjusting scopes or taking aim at a real-world distance in a controlled environment. Copendero also offers a 20-yard indoor archery range, firearms retail space, shooting instruction, and more! All of their shooting lanes feature ultra-modern Genesis retrievers from Action Target, giving shooters advanced digital control over their range time.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the esteemed Houston Safari Club Foundation. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for our organization, as we join forces to serve our incredible hunting and shooting community. We are excited to embark on this partnership with Houston Safari Club as we aim to elevate the hunting and shooting experience for our members and customers, as well as promote the values of conservation and responsible firearm usage. As part of this partnership, we are eager to explore various collaboration opportunities, including joint events, educational initiatives, and community outreach programs. Through these endeavors, both of our organizations strive to strengthen the bonds within the hunting and shooting community and promote safe and ethical practices,” stated Jerry Copeland, Owner, Copendero Indoor Archery, Pistol & Rifle Range.

“Copendero has really stepped up to boost HSCF’s programs in youth education, scholarship and conservation. We are extremely appreciative of their support and look forward to an enduring partnership,” states Joe Betar, Executive Director, Houston Safari Club Foundation.

About Copendero Indoor Archery, Pistol & Rifle Range
Family-owned and family-run, Copendero’s doors are open to everyone from first timers to seasoned pros. With multiple 25-yard handgun and archery lanes, a 100-yard rifle range, an in-house cafe, and a full-scale retail and service shop, Copendero is a Texas-sized destination for world-class shooting. Learn more.

About Houston Safari Club Foundation
Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. HSCF has awarded 550 scholarships totaling $2.5 million dollars. HSCF conducts youth outdoor education programs, career training, hunter education and field experiences throughout the year. HSCF has provided over $4 million in grants for hunter-funded wildlife, habitat, and various conservation initiatives. HSCF is an independent organization, is not affiliated with Safari Club International (SCI) or its affiliates and is not a chapter or affiliate of any other organization. Visit our website at wehuntwegive.org or call 713.623.8844 for more information. HSCF. We Hunt. We Give.

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(Houston, TX- May 20, 2024) Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is pleased to announce a partnership with their newest corporate sponsor, The Lester Group.

Under the leadership of Lance Lester, The Lester Group represents the region’s finest properties with exceptional skill using the most innovative technologies currently available. They offer ultimate privacy and security, speed, and efficiency. Their years of full-time experience have given them a clear understanding of the mindset of home buyers and sellers and a thorough understanding of the regional marketplace.

“The Lester Group is honored to partner with HSCF in the preservation of the sport of hunting and wildlife conservation!” stated Lance Lester, owner, The Lester Group.

“HSCF is honored to welcome our newest corporate partner, The Lester Group. Lance and the team at The Lester Group support HSCF’s mission and outreach programs. Lance has been an avid supporter of HSCF for years and we are extremely grateful for his support,” states Joe Betar, Executive Director, Houston Safari Club Foundation.

About The Lester Group
The Lester Group is a select team of Brazos Valley real estate professionals who value tradition, dependability, and the community to whom they serve. Our agents utilize these values within their professional career paths and enthusiasm for building lasting relationships with clients. Learn more.

About Houston Safari Club Foundation
Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. HSCF has awarded 550 scholarships totaling $2.5 million dollars. HSCF conducts youth outdoor education programs, career training, hunter education and field experiences throughout the year. HSCF has provided over $4 million in grants for hunter-funded wildlife, habitat, and various conservation initiatives. HSCF is an independent organization, is not affiliated with Safari Club International (SCI) or its affiliates and is not a chapter or affiliate of any other organization. Visit our website at wehuntwegive.org or call 713.623.8844 for more information. HSCF. We Hunt. We Give.

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(Houston, TX- May 13, 2024) Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) and the “Hunting Matters” podcast welcomes Jeff Crane, President and CEO of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation.

Jeff Crane joined CSF in 2002 and brings over 40 years of experience in on-the-ground natural resource management and policy expertise at the federal, state and international levels. A life-long outdoorsman, Jeff spent five years working in the US Congress and was instrumental in establishing the Maryland legislative sportsmen’s caucus prior to joining CSF. In addition, he has experience developing wildlife habitat management plans in the United States and South Africa. During his eight years in Africa, Jeff obtained his professional hunter’s license and guided hunts for big game animals. Jeff holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Master of Business Administration.

At CSF, Jeff ensures a steadfast and successful relationship between the bipartisan National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus and the Governors Sportsmen’s Caucus. He develops and manages the organization’s strategic business strategy and policy priorities and serves as the primary liaison between CSF and leaders within the governmental and non-governmental conservation community. Jeff also supervises all program areas to achieve overall organization goals, including, but not limited to directing and supervising development, administration, fundraising, strategic planning and the day-to-day operations of the organization.

Jeff served as the Chairman of the Hunting and Shooting Sports Conservation Council (HSSCC), a federal advisory council that reports to the Secretaries of Agriculture and the Interior. He is a past Chairman of the American Wildlife Conservation Partners (AWCP), the largest coalition of hunting conservation organizations. He is a Boone and Crockett member, served on the Government Affairs Committee for Safari Club International (SCI) and served as Vice-Chairman of Hunting and Wildlife Conservation Committee for the National Rifle Association (NRA). Additionally, he serves as the Co-Chairman of Legislative Policy for the Alliance for America’s Fish & Wildlife.

About Hunting Matters with Joe Betar
“Hunting Matters with Joe Betar”: An acclaimed podcast celebrating the wonders of the great outdoors. Join hosts Joe Betar, Executive Director of HSCF, and Houston media personality Ramon Robles as they delve into captivating discussions with a diverse array of guests. From hunting and fishing to sport shooting, conservation, policy, and even culinary arts, this podcast covers it all. Available on all major podcast platforms—subscribe, listen, rate, and review!

About Houston Safari Club Foundation
Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. HSCF has awarded 668 scholarships totaling $3.05 million dollars. HSCF conducts youth outdoor education programs, career training, hunter education and field experiences throughout the year. HSCF has provided over $4 million in grants worldwide. Visit our website at wehuntwegive.org or call 713.623.8844 for more information. HSCF. We Hunt. We Give.

 

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Higher Calling Wildlife® is proud to announce the winner of the Tony Houseman Conservation Legacy Award is Grayson Highfield, age 27,  from Cody, WY.

She was presented the award by Higher Calling Wildlife founder Chester Moore at the 2024 Hunt-Fish Podcast Summit at the Warren Ranch Sat. March 23.

“Tony Houseman was a president of the Houston Safari Club Foundation and was an early mentor of mine-the earliest in fact. He saw something in me when I had no real media resume to speak of and helped fuel the early part of my career, “Moore said.

Highfield is a graduate of the 2023 Women Hunt® program of the Wild Sheep Foundation and has worked with the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management and done everything from fire control to interpretive work.

“She’s a real go-getter and has miles and miles of heart. She also has a unique story and a high level of writing talent which she has been using to raise awareness of wildlife conservation, fishing and hunting. If Tony were still alive he would be proud of her,” Moore said.

Moore has stayed in touch with Houseman’s wife Gisela who has supported two Higher Calling Wildlife Expeditions through her philanthropic works.

Highfield said it was a huge honor to be chosen as the 2024 recipient of the Tony Houseman Conservation Legacy Award.

“Chester has become an amazing friend and support system in the short time I’ve known him, and I’m so grateful that he sees within me a drive for the passions we share: writing, the outdoors, wildlife, and stewardship.”

“I’m looking forward to where my future takes me, and excited to discover new opportunities in which I can give back to the Women Hunt program, conservation, and the hunting and angling fields.”

Highfeild noted that Chester’s story of one of Houseman’s last hunts (a green hunt for a rhinoceros) has inspired her.

“This story has allowed me to begin re-defining what it means to be a hunter in my own mind while I simultaneously shape my personal code of hunting ethics (as a very new hunter) and I am so excited to explore new avenues that meet at the dynamic intersection of hunting and conservation,” she said.

Higher Calling Wildlife helps mentor teens facing special challenges such as critical illness, parent loss and other issues to become wildlife conservationists through conservation-centric expeditions.

The 2022 and 2023 expeditions to Colorado were funded in part by grants from the Houston Safari Club Foundation. Reports on these expeditions were published in their Hunter’s Horn magazine.

They are currently raising funds and seeking sponsors for expeditions in Colorado and in the Yellowstone region.

You can email [email protected] if you would like to help or make a tax-deductible donation here.

You can subscribe to the Higher Calling Wildlife podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and iHeartradio and subscribe to the blog at www.highercalling.net.

(Houston, TX- March 5, 2024) The Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is pleased to announce its “Hunting Matters” radio program/podcast has been awarded a 2024 AVA Gold award in the Audio Production/Radio/Podcast category.

The AVA Digital Awards, founded in 1994, is an international competition that recognizes excellence by creative professionals responsible for the planning, concept, direction, design, and production of digital communication.

AVA Digital Awards is administered and judged by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP). The international organization consists of several thousand production, marketing, communication, advertising, public relations, and freelance professionals.

About Hunting Matters
“Hunting Matters with Joe Betar”: An acclaimed podcast celebrating the wonders of the great outdoors. Join hosts Joe Betar, Executive Director of HSCF, and Houston media personality Ramon Robles as they delve into captivating discussions with a diverse array of guests. From hunting and fishing to sport shooting, conservation, policy, and even culinary arts, this podcast covers it all. Available on all major podcast platforms—subscribe, listen, rate, and review!

About Houston Safari Club Foundation
Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. HSCF has awarded 668 scholarships totaling $3.05 million dollars. HSCF conducts youth outdoor education programs, career training, hunter education and field experiences throughout the year. HSCF has provided over $4 million in grants worldwide. Visit our website at wehuntwegive.org or call 713.623.8844 for more information. HSCF. We Hunt. We Give.

 

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(Houston, TX- February 22, 2024) This week “Hunting Matters” welcomes Heidi Rao!

Heidi Lyn Rao was hired by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) in 1998 and has recruited, trained, and retained volunteers, as the Hunter Education Specialist for Southeast Texas. In 2010 she also assumed the role as statewide Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) Coordinator.

During her TPWD career, she developed many partnerships and organized many education & outreach events. She started “Take Me Outdoors Houston” in 2009, when the Texas Wildlife Expo ended, and brings this annual family-friendly, free, hands-on outdoor event to Discovery Green, Downtown Houston. She hosts wildlife workshops ranging from alligators to big game. She promotes hunting and outdoor safety to groups ranging from elementary school aged to flying offshore via helicopter to speak to oil and gas employees in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico on a platform. From teaching firearm safety to Rodeo Clowns during the Houston Rodeo, to hosting Hunter Education classes at the Sam Houston (horse) Raceway, conducting National Archery in the Schools Program and Student Air Rifle certifications, and partnering with many hunting, shooting and conservation organizations across Texas.

She has coordinated twenty-seven statewide BOW workshops across Texas, including the first-ever VIRTUAL BOW in 2020. She has reached over 7,000 Ladies who have attended BOW and continued their outdoors skills ultimately becoming hunters, anglers, and archers, especially through mentored BOW hunts. To date, ten Texas Outdoor Women Network (TOWN) groups have launched across the state because of the statewide BOW.

She received IHEA’s Professional of the Year; IHEA’s Executive Director’s Award; TPWD’s Terry Erwin Hunter Education LEGACY award, Houston Safari Club Educator of the Year and she is also in the Texas Hunter Education Halls of Fame.

About Hunting Matters
“Hunting Matters” co-hosts HSCF Executive Director Joe Betar and Ramon Robles engage in conversations with guests from the worlds of hunting, fishing, shooting, conservation and the great outdoors. “Hunting Matters” airs Saturday, 6am-7am CDT on iHeart Media affiliate KPRC AM 950 and is available via podcast on Apple/iTunes, iHeartMedia, Google, Overcast, PodBean and Spreaker. Hunting Matters is an award-winning podcast and has been recognized by AVA Digital, NYX/Marcom, MarCom, Davey, and the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts. Subscribe, listen, rate and review.

About Houston Safari Club Foundation
Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. HSCF has awarded 668 scholarships totaling $3.05 million dollars. HSCF conducts youth outdoor education programs, career training, hunter education and field experiences throughout the year. HSCF has provided over $4 million in grants worldwide. Visit our website at wehuntwegive.org or call 713.623.8844 for more information. HSCF. We Hunt. We Give.

 

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