Vermont's Next Generation of Hunters

Steve LaFar, 56, learned to hunt turkeys on his own. His father died before he had a chance to pass along those skills. "I started thinking about that," LaFar said, explaining why he founded the Vermont Turkey & Young Guns Club. "How many kids don't have someone to teach them how to hunt?" LaFar, who was born in Swanton, now has roughly 60 kids, ranging from 8 to 17 years old, signed up for his program. They learn how to hunt safely and learn to respect local farmers who generously allow the use of their land. "It's about our kids. Our youth," LaFar said. Bernie praised LaFar for teaching young Vermonters healthy, rural values and for encouraging them to enjoy the outdoors.