IFOR'S PRESIDENT BECKER RESIGNS

After contemplating for a couple of years, long time IFOR President Bob Becker sent an email to the board tendering his resignation.  The email is included here in it's entirety:

After serving as President of IFOR for the past 18 years, the time has come for me to step down.  Effective October 4th, Karl "Bo" Arnold, an avid outdoorsmen, sportsman, hunter and all-round good guy, was named President.  Jim McFarlane will assume the Vice-President Position.  After being one of the founders, a charter and life member, I will remain an active member of the Board for as long as this old body can be effective.  This this change we will be changing our address to IFOR, P.O. Box 273, Greenview, IL  62642.  You can reach Bo at 217-741-1373 or by email at Bonjane56@hotmail.com.  His fax number is 217-968-5607.

It has truly been a pleasure and a lot of fun (most of the time) representing this fine organization and working with all of our great affiliations and regular members.  I have met many outstanding conservationists during my tenure and certainly look forward to seeing and working with many of you in the future.

My sincere thanks for all the help and support you have given me.

Bob Becker
Old Retired President

COMMENTS RECEIVED ON THIS ANNOUNCEMENT:

October 5, 2009 - Bob, I would like to thank you for your years of dedicated service and congratulate you on your many accomplishments.  IFOR is a critical partner to DNR and I personally appreciate all you have done for the agency and me personally.  Thanks again, IDNR Director Marc Miller

Bob, While I hate to see it happen, I konw how much of your life you have put into this.  I want you to know how much I appreciate what you have done, not just for IFOR, but for all hunters and fishermen.  I know you will still be involved and if I can ever help you with anything let me know.   Jerry Beverlin

Bob, man time flies.  There are very few who will remember the beginning, but there are many that are enjoying the results of the endeavor.  I will never forget all our discussions, the influence you and Miles had on me, and your strong ethical dedication.  My personal and professional thanks.  The greatest result from all that we have been through is my ability to call you "friend".  Bless you Bob and Godspeed.  Shoot straight, watch the wind, set the hook strong and keep your eyes on the skyline.  I loof forward to seeing you ... Brent Manning

On behalf of the Illinois Commercial Fishing Association, I would like to thank you for your service to IFOR.  You were instrumental in forming one of the most important and effective groups in the country.  We are very proud of you and your accomplishments.  I can say with all my heart, it is a honor to know you.  God bless.  Kirby J. Marsden, State President, Illinois Commercial Fishing Association, Inc.

Bob, just want to say a big THANKS for all that you have done that has directly or indirectly influenced many good things in conservation that have helped our organization.  We always enjoyed having you speak at our annual convention.  It is nice to have people as committed as you to conservation issues.  Thanks again.  Pete Sweitzer, President of Illinois Taxidermist Association

Bob, I know the feeling.  I too will be stepping down this year.  The Illinois State Chapter of the NWTF would like to thank you for the countless hours you have spent working for hunters rights in the state of Illinois.  Enjoy your retirement and I look forward to seeing you shortly up in Calhoun County.  Save some of those big bucks for me!  Your friend, Blaze Pazero, President, Illinois State Chapter-NWTF

Friend Bob, It is with deep regret and sad feelings that I recently read where you are retiring as Pres. of  IFOR,   but I certainly understand.  Also as being one of the founders, charter and life member of IFOR I know we aren't getting any younger,    especially when I think of some of our other people who helped us organize IFOR Like Miles Bruckner and Floyd Kringer (both gone). I want you to know how much we all appreciate the great wonderful job you have done in building IFOR to the  great organization it is today  and I'm sure Bo Arnold must be a fine guy or you wouldn't have turned the reins over to him. If you are ever in our area stop by and again Bob thanks, may ever shot be perfect. OLD, OLD FRIEND LEE ROY RENDLEMAN