Boycott Worked - Show Is Postponed!!!
Home - Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show
The statement is disingenious of course as it essentially blames the Sporting Rifle Community for not cowering and caving into the Fudds. They don't have the balls to admit that they screwed up and screwed up badly.
They seem to be blaming gun owners for the failure of the event rather than take responsibility themselves. They should reschedule it and make it crystal clear to everyone - especially the public at large that this is a "Fudd Show" and a "Fudd Show" only and that the MSR people and supporting industries are not welcome before firearms vendors spend time and money for an event where they are not welcome. United we stand but it is apparent that Reed want's to divide and hasten the downfall of all for short term Political Correctness gain. So yes, by all means reschedule the event but be very upfront and honest with all including potential visitors that this is entirely a "Zumbo" Type Fudd Show and not a Gun Show.
ESOS Statement:
Reed Exhibitions has decided to postpone, for now, the Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show given the controversy surrounding its decision to limit the sale or display of modern sporting rifles (also called ARs) at the event. The show was scheduled to take place February 2-10 in Harrisburg, PA.
“Our original decision not to include certain products in the Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show this year was made in order to preserve the event’s historical focus on the hunting and fishing traditions enjoyed by American families,” said Chet Burchett, Reed Exhibitions President for the Americas. “In the current climate, we felt that the presence of MSRs would distract from the theme of hunting and fishing, disrupting the broader experience of our guests. This was intended simply as a product decision, of the type event organizers need to make every day.
“It has become very clear to us after speaking with our customers that the event could not be held because the atmosphere of this year’s show would not be conducive to an event that is designed to provide family enjoyment. It is unfortunate that in the current emotionally charged atmosphere this celebratory event has become overshadowed by a decision that directly affected a small percentage of more than 1,000 exhibits showcasing products and services for those interested in hunting and fishing.
“ESS has long been proud to participate in the preservation and promotion of hunting and fishing traditions, and we hope that as the national debate clarifies, we will have an opportunity to consider rescheduling the event when the time is right to focus on the themes it celebrates.”