By Brenda Valentine
First Lady of Hunting®
July 13, 2009

The Firelake Grand Casino "Event Center" in Shawnee, Oklahoma, was the setting July 11 for the NWTF, "Camo & Pearls" ladies appreciation event. It was a night of fun, fellowship, and a celebration of women's contributions to the conservation of wildlife and the preservation of our hunting heritage.

Becky Evans, event chairperson, and a host of Women in the Outdoors volunteers, devoted untold hours of work and planning to make this special event a success. Judy Story, Arkansas Regional Director, was the emcee of the event. Prizes and auction items donated from numerous vendors and businesses enhanced the fun for everyone while generating funds that will contribute to the conservation and preservation efforts of the National Wild Turkey Federation.


Pictured are special guest speakers; Brenda Valentine, First Lady of Hunting™ and Jari Askins, Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor.

Bass Pro Shop and the National Wild Turkey Federation have a long-standing partnership. The Oklahoma City, Bass Pro Shops, "Outdoor World" had a display of RedHead brand hunting clothes and boots designed for women. Four associates from the OKC store attended the Camo & Pearls event and are pictured with Brenda, a member of the Redhead Pro-Hunting team.

Lady auctioneer, Tammy Duckwall, did a tremendous job during the live auction segment of the event.

The gala event proved to also be a special reunion for Brenda and many old friends. Former IBO National Champion Shooting Team partners, Sue "Ray" Tadlock, from Sulphur, Oklahoma, and Brenda Valentine were delighted for the opportunity to catch-up.

Another special friend, Juanita Miller, co-owner of J&J Outfitters, traveled from Arnette, Oklahoma, to attend her first WITO fundraiser and a short visit with Brenda.

Special bids were submitted for dining at the Celebrity Table with guests, Jari Askins & Brenda Valentine. The two special ladies in the back row are both members of the US Armed Forces who are home on leave from duties in Iraq. Everyone, including the daughters (pictured) of local NWTF officers and volunteers are avid hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Avid turkey hunter, Reggie Gordon, traveled from Wauchula, Florida, to attend the Camo & Pearls event.

Thanks to Gary Purdy, NWTF Senior Regional Director, and Mike Evans, President of the Oklahoma NWTF State Chapter, for their tireless support of "Women in the Outdoors" and the mission of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

Read all of Brenda's Field Notes