In Memory of Kermit Wheeler... a true man of the outdoors...


Kernmit and friend goose hunting...
In spring 2006, I received a call from an old friend, Kermit Wheeler, to fish on the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland opening day of rockfish (striped bass) season. As with most trips, I had the opportunity to meet new folks and shoot the breeze about the largest fish ever caught, football teams, music, and family. On this day, I remember meeting Kermit at his home as he shared some of his favorite recipes for fish, especially rockfish. He was anxious to invite me on a duck hunt that fall and reassured me that we were in for a great fishing day. As we drove to meet the rest of the crew at the marina, Kermit and I discussed our shared interest of purchasing a fishing boat and how we both dreamed of fishing offshore. As we talked about the water, Kermit quickly reminded himself that he needed to make a stop to get a pack of Dramamine...after all the talk of fishing miles offshore, he finally broke down and admitted to getting sea-sick. As the day moved forward, it was apparent how much a role the outdoors played in Kermit's life.


This past fall, instead of receiving a call to remind me about our duck hunt, I got a call that Kermit had passed away from heart failure...not what I expected. I anticipated spending many days fishing and hunting with Kermit and could not imagine receiving news of his death at this point in our lives. Hearing of his death caught me completely off guard; a reminder that we take this part of life for granted.


This issue is dedicated to Kermit Wheeler...a good friend, father, husband, and advocate for outdoor living. Kermit represents the flock of men and women that have sought outdoor living as a means to enjoy life and slow the hands of time to capture the great wonders of the outdoors. You will be missed Kermit.


In this winter issue, BOM showcases the outdoor adventures on the slopes as we blaze the powder with competitive snowboarder Pam Pickens and profile World Cup and US Olympic skier, Ralph Green. Green chronicles the turning point in his life that led him to the world of competitive downhill skiing. BOM also gets a perspective on the current hunting culture from Greg Purnsley and catches up to Junior Olympic Alpine skier, Lauren Samuels.

B-Out!


Charles K. West