As we enter into our 33rd year here at Traditional Bowhunter® Magazine, it is quite apparent that change is inevitable. And change can be good, bad, or indifferent depending on how one looks at it.
Many changes have taken place here at TBM since its inception in a dark pub one snowy December evening after a night of shooting bows at the local archery range. What started out as a dream of mine that evening eventually took roots with five others who wanted to be a part of this crazy idea of a traditional-only magazine. As with all startups, money was an issue, but we made do by digging into our own pockets to get the gears rolling.
Of those six young men and women who said they wanted to be a part of TBM, only one of us has survived the journey to be here today; for good or ill, I am the only original team member left from that group.
But what a ride this has been! Looking back, I have been blessed to work with some very talented and dedicated individuals who have helped shape our path. But two decades ago, things got much easier when my dear friend Don Thomas became my Co-Editor. To say he was able to take a load of work off my shoulders would be a vast understatement; Don has been one of those steady rocks that helped hold together, and push forward, TBM to what it has become today.
But all things must come to pass, and Don has decided to step back as our Co-Editor so he can pursue other pleasures. He and Lori will still be steady Contributors, but the job as my Co-Editor will be replaced with an outstanding individual; David Tetzlaff will take over as Co-Editor starting June 1, 2021, while Don will assist in a smooth transition.
David has been our Book Reviewer for many years now and has contributed several pieces to the magazine. A few years ago, he contacted me about taking over the Editor position for the Compton Traditional Bowhunters’ quarterly magazine. I knew he could do the job and encouraged him to take it; I was their Editor for some seven years as well and knew David’s potential. That training has brought him to accept the position of Co-Editor here at TBM, as he was the top pick between all of us as Don’s replacement.
Personally, I will miss working with Don on a weekly basis; however, he will still be affiliated with TBM as we go forward. And I look forward to more hunting, fishing, and wing-shooting with him in the years to come.
T.J. Conrads
Well, a big Thank You and Best Wishes are in order for Don Thomas, who’s given us so many great articles and edited articles over the years. The same to the new Co-Editor Dave Tetzlaff for filling Don’s vacancy. Perhaps the biggest round of gratitude should go to T.J. for giving us the best and finest traditional bowhunting periodical in the industry for decades. Every TBM issue is better than the last one. Thank You!!