I love blogging and some people actually read it! I started in 2008 for work, and found it therapeutic to my soul. With my kids being spread over the world, it is a good way to send words of fatherly advice and love to family and friends. I write a lot about the outdoors, family, real world struggles of a 21st century Dad, and gratitude to a God who blesses us beyond measure. Thank you for visiting. Feel free to leave comments and share it with your friends. I’m also on Twitter @guskoerner
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Outdoor Living, Recreation for Some, Necessity for Others
I teach outdoor education and recreation. I teach parents and teachers to take the children outdoors for enrichment and appreciation of nature and all it offers us. I am also a huge proponent of outdoor education for the skills it can teach us about doing without modern day appliances, which in turn may someday give us an edge if we are forced to cope with a natural or manmade disaster. People forced from their homes have a better chance of survival if they have developed a sense of well being and confidence in the absence of electricity, running water and a warm cozy bed.
Mitch’s book gives a detailed description of what it’s like to live on the street, and the way Pastor Henry had compassion upon these people to make their live not just more comfortable, but bearable. One of the characters loses his toes from frostbite. Can we even imagine? A wise person once told me, “The key to happiness is gratitude”. This principle is demonstrated and affirmed in the book when some of the homeless rejoice in being granted just a few comforts, like some used clothing or shoes without holes.
I challenge us all to consider this as the new year approaches and we think about all we have to do in 2010 and goals we wish to accomplish. Take some time to consider those not just less fortunate, but those who have nothing, and do something to make a difference in your community.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Spotlight: Mitch Albom’s Book, Have a Little Faith
Well Christmas is over, and the New Year is approaching. Santa Claus was good to our family, although it was a little leaner under the tree than some years. One of the gifts I received this year was a book from my Sweetie of one of my favorite authors, Mitch Albom. (I need to list Mitch as one of my Favorites in my profile.) Mitch is a columnist for the Detroit Free Press and authors many fine books such as Tuesdays with Morrie, 5 People You Meet in Heaven, and now his latest book, Have a Little Faith.
I’m not a book worm, so in order to read with good comprehension and most importantly captivation; I need a quiet place with good light and a little white noise. Have a Little Faith, kept me wanting more from the very first page to the very end with only a few short breaks in between. The reasons it hooked me are his style and layout mostly. I love a book that has new chapters every two or three pages. Similar to a blogging style, the book left me finishing one thought, then lead me on to the next which was sometimes completely different, making me think – but not too hard. Beyond this technical aspect is Mitch's humanness that he portrays. His thoughts and feelings are those like I might have in similar circumstances, and his people are real - ordinary folks with extraordinary stories. There is greatness in the ordinary - that point comes across crystal clear.
From Mitch’s site… Albom’s first nonfiction book since Tuesdays with Morrie, Have A Little Faith begins with an unusual request: an 82-year-old rabbi from Albom’s old hometown asks him to deliver his eulogy. - Feeling unworthy, Albom insists on understanding the man better, which throws him back into a world of faith he’d left years ago. Meanwhile, closer to his current home, Albom becomes involved with a Detroit pastor – a reformed drug dealer and convict – who preaches to the poor and homeless in a decaying church with a hole in its roof.
So Mr. Gus, you may ask, What does this have to do with the outdoors? Are you rambling? - The answer is no. As I read about the Detroit pastor and his work with the homeless, I reflected upon those who live at the mercy of the outdoor elements by necessity, rather than by choice. The reason for this book review at all is because of the impression it made upon me in this way.
Here is a great follow-up article to the book in USA Today: 'Tuesdays With Morrie' author Mitch Albom keeps the 'Faith', Updated 9/29/2009 10:39 PM.
Please read my upcoming follow up: Outdoor Living, Recreation for Some, Necessity for Others, to post Dec. 30, 2009.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
The Gift Of Service
This season, we celebrate that sacred moment -- the birth of a child and the message of love He would preach to the world; that we are our brother's keeper, our sister's keeper; that, "pure in heart," we do unto others as we would have them do unto us; that we devote ourselves to "good works;" that we are summoned to be peacemakers.
More than 2,000 years later, that spirit still inspires us... And it's why, as so many of our fellow citizens struggle through tough times, we are called upon to help neighbors in need. And it's why, with our men and women in uniform serving far from home, in harm's way, our fervent wish remains, this season and all seasons -- let there be peace on Earth. - Remarks by the President, Barack Obama, at the 28th "Christmas in Washington" Broadcast, National Building Museum, Washington, D.C., December 14, 2009.
The speech in full.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Take Some Time To Reflect
Oh, there's no place like home for the holidays
'Cause no matter how far away you roam
If you long for the sunshine and a friendly gaze
For the holidays you can't beat home sweet home
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Can Roadkill Serve A Worthy Purpose?

Now as a Floridian, its making me start to wonder about our road-killed wildlife. I'll have to look up the Florida FWC numbers, but when I asked myself, Are more possum killed by small game hunters or by cars?, I laughed out loud! Florida drivers smashing possum and armadillos, attract more buzzards than Palm Beach attracks New York retirees. But does this, or can this have any beneficial affect to us and our families, or is it just a sad sad thing?
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Protect Yourself. Inventory Your Things.

When I first started using the software, it was from one of the larger insurance companies, and I spoke to one of their reps. They told me that too many people try to make claims for stolen or ruined valuables, but they offer no proof those things ever existed. After using the software, I found it extremely intuitive and useful. Some tips as you start to inventory your items: Do it in a logical order. I opted to inventory my most valuable items first, which made good sense. After those were done, I went room by room and did other valuables. Lastly (and ongoing) I use it to keep track of account numbers and log-in information. Many of us nowadays have multiple account numbers for our banks or shopping online, it’s hard to keep track of all of them. What You Own Home Inventory does a great job with this. Finally, when your done – save a copy to your hard drive and burn a copy to disc. I keep mine in the safe, with the intention of giving a copy to a family member in case all my things go up in smoke.
CNET had this to say about it, and I agree… CNET Editors' Review: We review a lot of programs, and it's not often that we find one that really blows us away. What You Own Home Inventory is one of those rare programs, the cream of the crop that's available on Download.com. The fact that this powerful home inventory program is free is a very pleasant surprise. The program's interface is fantastic, with a sleek, intuitive design. Users enter the rooms in their home and then the contents of each room, listing the purchase price, replacement price, and other relevant details…
Do it today, before it’s too late.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Allow Kids To Screw Up
Allow youth to do the activity- don’t be too quick to correct them, show them the right way, or do things for them. Of course, if you see a danger threat, intervene immediately. The point is, some of the most important life lessons are learned by making mistakes. Adults tend to want to rescue kids from adversity. When we do that, we rob them of some of the most powerful learning experiences.
This is just one of the principles we teach in the 4-H Shooting Sports Instructor Classes, but it is applicable to any discipline or subject matter, to other kids or your own. Allowing them to fail in small degrees will set up those teachable moments, like I discussed in a previous blog, 12/2/09 Teachable Moments.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Spotlight: The Snook Foundation
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Mark Your Calendars, Dec. 21

Monday, December 7, 2009
4-H Values Are The Common Thread

HEAD – Thinking, Managing, example Critical Thinking, Goal Setting
HEART – Relating, Caring, example Cooperation, Concern for Others
HANDS – Giving, Working, example Service, Learning Useful Skills
HEALTH – Living, Being, example Personal Safety, Self Discipline
In this blog, you will continue to see a common theme of these four topics running through as a common thread. Even though my last entry was about HAVA, Honored American Veterans Afield, I feel it important to spend some time on the Heart aspect for one more day.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Spotlight: HAVA, Honoring our Vets.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Evolution Of This Blog

Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Teachable Moments

A "teachable moment" is THE teaching opportunity, right at the instant it needs to be delivered. This teaching tool is applicable for any subject matter, students of any age. For example, on the archery range regarding finger guards - you can talk about them prior to shooting, "how important they are, blah blah blah", but why take away valuable shooting time with lecture. If the child shoots without finger guards, no harm will come other than potentially sore fingers. With no glove or finger tab you'll be able to see if the string is properly positioned, then after 10 shots or so, ask how the child's fingers are. If the shooter says they're kind of sore, then introduce him to the glove. They'll get it and never forget. The trademark of every effective educator is to devise and use teachable moments.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Night Rider’s Lament
Last night about 11 o'clock I went outside, like me and the dog often do - and immediately I was struck in the eyes by our magnificent Florida moon, bright as could be and immediately a song fell off my tongue. The words came from seemingly nowhere, from the depths of my brain. As I was singing, my recollections went back to my growing up in the Lone Star State and all of the old friends I have back there, the lonesome cowboy of long ago and some of my old boyhood nights spent under the stars. Read the lyrics. I’m sure some of you will be able to relate. The song is Night Rider’s Lament, by Jerry Jeff Walker & The Lost Gonzo Band, 1975. Is goes like this:
The grave yard shift, midnight 'til dawn
The moon was bright as a readin' light
For a letter from an old friend back home
Chorus
And he asked me
Why do you ride for your money
Tell me why do you rope for short pay
You ain't a'gettin' nowhere
And you're losin' your share
Boy, you must have gone crazy out there
Ah but they've never seen the Northern Lights
They've never seen a hawk on the wing
They've never spent spring on the Great Divide
And they've never heard ole' camp cookie sing
This song was written by Michael Burton, is immediately ready to purchase from iTunes or others for about a dollar. Other singers such as Garth Brooks have done this song, but none sound as good to me as Jerry Jeff (no offense Garth). If you have experienced this song, especially the last four lines, share this experience with someone, especially your spouse or little ones to relearn the magic of moonlight.
Monday, November 30, 2009
You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out, Part 2 – Archery
…this doesn’t have to be true or even a threat this holiday season, if you’re considering getting your child or grandchild a bow and arrow. The best advice I can give you on buying your first bow is DO NOT buy a used bow from a neighbor, pawn shop or online, unless you know exactly what you’re getting and why. When you buy a bow for your youngster, you will need follow-up help. Ask yourself, will this vendor (online or otherwise) be able to provide me with expert advice after the sale? You see, bows and arrows are like shoes; they either fit or they don’t, and when they do fit, they are outgrown over a relatively short period. You can save a lot of money and heart ache, if you get your child fitted for a bow from someone who knows what they’re doing – a professional. The wrong size or improperly fitted bow may very likely cause your lad to become frustrated or discouraged and not enjoy shooting at all.
Bow size: Your child has a wingspan, finger tip to finger tip with arms outstretched. Take that number in inches, and divide by 2.5 Example – Billy has a wingspan of 48 inches. 48 divided by 2.5 equals a draw length of 19.2 (or 20) inches. Always round up. A knowledgeable bowman will measure or ask for the draw length from the get-go. This measurement will affect what size bow you get, and the arrows you buy.
Bow Poundage: If a bow is a “20 pounds”, that means it requires 20 pounds of force to pull back. In my experience, the average eight year old child can draw back 15 to 25 pounds. In five shooting sessions, even over one week, that child’s strength and technique can increase to the point where even the lightest bow is becoming less challenging. Keep your new shooter challenged, but not overly so.

Compound verses traditional: Traditional bows include recurve and long bows. Compound bows have the wheels on each tip. Training Wheels! Some of us joke (tee hee hee). There is much controversy out there on which one to buy. Debates go on with this topic just as much as religion or politics. As a rule, in my humble opinion, traditional bows help reinforce better technique, where compound bows will help a kid hit the bulls-eye quicker. The reason this is so, is because most new compound bows come with sights similar to a gun, and the shooter no longer is using his/her instincts to aim the bow. These sights act as a crutch for some. Traditional bows will be useful over a broad draw length range, compound bows are not, BUT most of the major manufacturers are building bows that have an adjustable draw length over a range. Check your vendor for this. (Photo caption: the Genesis bow, by Matthews pictured is one of many fine bows to teach introductory archery in programs such as NASP. Even though it has wheels, it has the feel and characteristics of a traditional.)
As I mention in Part 1 of this series, get to know groups in your community who teach the sport and can help your child learn the fundamentals from the beginning. A good archery coach will immediately start teaching you and your shooter safety and the Nine, Ten or Eleven (depending on the organization) Steps to the 10 Ring.
Archery is more than just for fun. It can train that future bow hunter or next Olympian, but it also can potentially getting some kids in serious trouble. Adult supervision is always required for kids shooting bows, not just as a good precaution but in some cases, it is the law. Be Aware - modern bows and arrows, even the least expensive ones can easily kill a domestic pet or cause serious property damage. On the flip side again, shooting successfully requires a child to take multiple, specific steps in order, the exact same way, every time, time and time again. Similarly to learning to play a piano, the steps required in shooting can help a child scholastically, and build self confidence unlike many other activities. Make archery a family activity that you each can use to make memories for a lifetime.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
“You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!” Part 1 – Air Rifles
…this doesn’t have to be true or even a threat this holiday season, if you’re considering getting your child or grandchild an air rifle. When I say “air rifle,” this also includes the whole family of pneumatic firearms, which also take in pellet and BB guns. The first and foremost safety rule is, Keep your muzzle pointed in a safe direction. If this were the only rule that people followed, there would never be an accident! Also see my blog, Oops, Sorry About Your Cat.

There are many companies out there that market and sell air rifles, the primary ones most advertized include Crosman , Daisy and Gamo. Within those companies, you have probably a hundred to choose from, ranging from $30 to well over $500, but be sure of this – all of these companies make fine equipment. Which one to buy? That’s a great question, but to answer it you need to ask yourself why you are buying the rifle for your youngster?
Air rifles are for competition, training, hunting, recreational plinking, and for potentially getting some kids in deep trouble. Adult supervision is always required for kids shooting air rifles, not just as a good precaution but in some cases, it is the law. Be Aware - modern air rifles, even the least expensive ones can easily kill a domestic pet or cause serious property damage.
Now to the point of really helping you to buy the right one for your young Olympian or hunter to be… 1) do your research before you buy. Each of the companies I mention have very informative web pages, and may give you a discount if your child belongs to a bona-fide youth shooting sports program. 2) Look around locally for youth programs such as scouts or 4-H. They can provide shooting opportunities for your child with air rifles and some of them may allow you to try some of their guns prior to purchase, or inform you of special purchasing options to save you money. In addition, they will more than likely host or attend competitive events which may require a specific gun, or one with special requirements. 3) I would consider this most important – consider this an opportunity to have a fun, safe, healthy outdoor hobby with your young family member so as to make memories and establish safe habits for a life time.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Save Those Turkey Bones!

Oops, Sorry About Your Cat
I’m not talking about hunting or shooting high power rifles, for most of us that’s simply unfeasible because of the usual rules of suburbia and the dreaded HOA bylaws some of us agreed to. What I am talking about is the tamer, “gentlemanly” or at least quiet sports of archery, air rifle or even air-soft marksmanship. Keeping a bow or a pellet gun and a target in the spare bedroom or out in the garage handy makes it easier. Set up your situation so that you can step out or even better – grab your child from in front of the video game or your sweetie, and take them outside with you. After your domestic shooting range is set up, you can be outside and shooting within just a few minutes. This will allow you to kill two or more birds with one stone (not literally) – you can practice one of your favorite sports, perfect your skills, and spend some quality time with one of your favorite family members. Why wait until your next trip to the gun range to teach firearms handling to your family? You don’t own a gun or bow suitable for short range, quiet fun? If you call your local gun or archery shop, they can probably get you some backyard-suitable equipment for a c-note or less. You don’t have enough room? All one needs for a backyard range is five to ten yards with a safe area behind and to the sides.
Be sure to follow all safety guidelines, especially the 3 Always of Firearm Safety, the 10 Commandments of Firearm Safety, and local your ordinances. Be courteous of your neighbors, and don’t shoot the little birdies. Remember some of these most important rules of backyard marksmanship are : 1) keep the firearm (gun or bow) pointed in a safe direction, 2) stay unloaded until pointing at the target, and 3) keep your finger(s) off the trigger (or string) until your sights are lined up and you’re ready to shoot, 4) be sure of your target and what is beyond, and last but not least be sure to use all safety equipment, especially eye protection. For more safety information contact a local gun shop, firearms or hunter safety instructor or go to the education sections of the National Rifle Association or the National Shooting Sports Foundation.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Sneaky Prophylactic Education
I think you've heard several things. When most youth programs go out to work with shooting, what they are doing is sneaky prophylactic education.
I want you to understand what I mean. Prophylactic means preventative. Our objective through 4-H is to educate the kid. It's sneaky because we sell all of the educational package with fun. When it comes to those parents, it's doubly sneaky prophylactic education because they think that they must be there because only the kid is there.
They don't know that we're going to recruit them and put them to work at the same time. They don't know that we're going to teach them the same stuff that the kids are being taught and therefore try to recruit them as well. Being a spectator stinks. - excerpt taken from the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Reaching Out to Existing Youth Organizations, 2005 by Dr. Ron Howard, Jr. Extension 4-H and Youth Development Specialist, Texas Agricultural Extension Service.
Make a difference in the life of a kid by taking them outdoors. They’ll benefit on many levels.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Upholding Our 2nd Amendment, One Child at a Time
For those of you teaching kids like me in the shooting sports, remember that with every child you reach you are doing something for the greater good of this nation. Have you actually considered your ownership and possession of firearms a right and not a privilege? I must admit, I usually consider it the other way around – even though I know different. As a school child, I remember my teachers talking about our freedoms of religion and speech, but not once did one of them talk about our right to bear arms. Why not do you suppose? Typically those of us in the shooting sports circles talk about it freely among our friends, but perhaps not in the politically correct circles we are sometimes required to associate in. If we spoke about it more in public, the fear is being considered one of those “extremist wackos” probably. What a shame. The next time you teach our youth how to safely handle a firearm; I challenge you to not be shy in explaining to the kids, in terms they can understand that this is one of the rights our founding fathers created for us, that we need to protect.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Professional Shooter
Last night I skipped out on archery class so that I could attend the Jr. Air Rifle Class up North, which meets the same time. Although I was reluctant to miss archery, it was a good thing. The clubs are supposed to be run by volunteers, and when I’m there the leader lets me take over. I need to help them grow in independence, relying on the parents to step in. I also had to miss seeing my daughter shoot, but that's a good thing sometimes too as she acts differently when I watch. Reports of the meeting were that although things did not go as smoothly as usual, it was a good night anyway.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
This is the my first posting...
I’m the grandson of immigrants along with my five siblings, the child of parents growing up in suburbia, a parent of four great kids and the grandpa of four youngins’. I work hard for a living, knowing that while I’m at work I think about home and while at home I think about work. It seems I always need to be somewhere else. My Dad and brother served in the military. Of my children, one of my sons is a student and one is a US Marine. Of my daughters, one is a teacher and one is a student. My Step-daughters are jewels and one of my many many blessings.
Professionally I am an former NASA program manager, and a current government employee working with kids in youth development, teaching all of the shooting sports disciplines. In the program I developed, my volunteers and I teach approximately 1000 kids per year of every imaginable background. I owe my successes to the gifts I’ve received in building partnerships, relating with people (especially youth), a love of the outdoors, great mentors, and an understanding and loving wife. Even though I do not directly mention God. He is creator of all good things to whom I am grateful beyond words. Listen to this podcast, Size: 1.5 mb, Time: 1:36.