By Connie Mertz
For 21 years, the Early Bird Sports Expo has attracted hundreds of outdoor-oriented families from across the state. The Broadt family, which organizes the four-day event, strives to provide the best seminars and vendors.
“Seminar speakers can be our vendors at the show,” Betty Broadt, spokesperson for the family said. “Sometimes, the vendors and visitors speak up and give us ideas, too. We just read and watch for items that pertain to outdoor sports.”
Whatever the Broadt family is doing, the show remains a success year after year, but Betty is quick to add, “It’s the people who make the show a success. People get cabin fever in the month of January and need an outlet, and we try to bring vendors to the show who will cater to all walks of life. It’s a place where the whole family can come and see what’s out there. The Bloomsburg Fairgrounds is a great place to have the show as well, because everyone knows where it is.”
Jason Michael of Turbotville is this year’s main seminar speaker. At 37 years old, he has accomplished more than most hunters do in a lifetime. He has achieved both the World and four Grand Slams in turkey hunting. His seminars are scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 1 and 6 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m.
Tom Austin, another local hunter and angler, who is also the founder of the Early Bird Sports Expo, will share his outdoor memorabilia collections on Friday at 11 a.m.
For those interested in hunting big game in Africa, Joe Viljoen of Brave Heart Safaris, will share what hunters not only need to know about hunting, but photographic tips as well. His seminar will be presented at 4 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. Saturday.
Doug Garrison, president of the northcentral Pennsylvania branch of Quality Deer Management will show how to both score and age deer at 7 p.m. Thursday. Speaking of deer, George Gensemer of Gensemer’s Meats will show how to butcher and process venison at 3 p.m. Saturday.
Jeff Nichols and Barrett Wiggans, both of Roaring Run Forestry and Wildlife Services, will discuss forest management and timber harvesting at 1 p.m. Sunday.
While the adults listen to seminars, the children can also have a great time with hands-on outdoor-related activities. There’s a BB range, sponsored by the Orangeville Sportsmen club, a children’s archery range by the United Bowhunters, and a special archery 10-yard trophy shoot for those 12 and under. Those wishing to participate may sign up at the Expo. There is also the annual youth turkey calling contest.
“This year, Turtle World is coming with reptiles and a petting zoo,” Broadt said. “This is something new for the kids.”
Perhaps the best thing of all for parents is that children 12 and under are admitted free.
There is much to see and do at this year’s Early Bird Sports Expo. What appears to be the most popular attraction? “The archery shooters are one attraction,” she said. “We also have visitors who have booked trips with our vendors in the past and come back bringing their friends to meet them.”
