Sep 7, 2013 3 min read

Since I write about the outdoors and am also a Boone & Crockett measurer, I get invited to quite a few area functions.

I can’t attend them all, but there is a small celebration held in Greene County that is always one of my favorites.

Heritage Day, which is held at Ryerson State Park, will be held Saturday and features archery, maple syrup making and me measuring deer.

If you aren’t doing anything, go for a ride and visit this event, which has a very relaxed atmosphere. Just don’t ask me to hurry and score your buck. Sit back in the shade and enjoy the food and pretty surroundings.

• As I read the Observer-Reporter last week, I was shocked to see the obituary of an old friend.

As far as I know, Sam Fragapane lived his entire life in east Canonsburg. He was a bit of a legend among local firearms collectors, reloaders and hunters in general.

I first met him back in the 1960s, but didn’t get to know him well until many years later.

Back then, I was using a reloading outfit that used only neck size cases and I needed to have some full length resized.

I heard of a fellow from east Canonsburg who could do the job, and a phone call later, I was was on my way to find Sam.

I remember sitting in his living room and talking guns. We sat there and Sam held a pre-64 Model 70 in his hands. Next to him on his end table, I noted a well-worn and ever-present bible. Sam was a knowledgeable gun owner and also a good person.

As I picture Sam, one thing always stands out – I don’t ever remember seeing him without a big smile. Just being around him was a pleasure.

Canonsburg might have been the home of Bobby Vinton and Perry Como, but those who knew Sam counted him as just as impressive a resident.

If Sam doesn’t make it to heaven, there’s little hope for the rest of us.

• Don’t forget about the ARH gun show at Washington Fairgrounds Sept. 21 and 22.

If everything goes right, I will be found on the 21st at Keith Jacanin’s booth. Of course, I’ll also be roaming around and might be seen shooting the bull with Ed Buchelo or Fred Carper.

For me, the interplay and kibitzing between gun-oriented people is an important part of any gun show. I think the one at the fairgrounds is the largest in the area.

It’s also a good place to sign up for an NRA membership.

All firearms owners should be NRA members.

• Those who love black powder shooting should circle Oct. 13 on their caledar.

The Dormont-Mt. Lebanon Sportsmen’s Club on Linden Road will hold a black powder muzzleloader shoot that day at 1 p.m.

Iron sights and both flint and cap locks are acceptable.

There will be 10 events and 10 winners. Matches will include round ball, minnie ball and maxie ball.

Signups begin at 12:30 p.m. and the fee is $10.

For more information, call Ron Watton at 724-941-5891 or by e-mail at watton2@verizon.net.

George H. Block writes a Sunday Outdoors column for the Observer-Reporter.