It just goes to show you, folks.  Most of us have set up our payments on scheduled systems that literally take care of it for us.  So, when we have a card number change, there are dozens of places that need updated payment information.  Word on the street is, Kayla Lyons, IA Director of the DNR, was checked during a fishing trip and her license wasn’t current.  It is claimed further, she asked for a citation, which I believe to be a classy move.  I wasn’t there, so I don’t know that to be true or untrue.  But, in the few times she and I have interacted, Director Lyons appeared to be a very forthcoming person, so the claim that she willingly sought to pay her fine, and skip a warning, doesn’t surprise me.

I remember the first time I was pulled over for speed while visiting my hometown, with my kids in the car.  An officer, who was a good friend, was going to let me go, but I thought it best to be cited and take my lumps.  Why?  It sure wasn’t because I like paying fines.  Rather, I had two pairs of little eyes in the back seat that needed to see how we’re supposed to behave in the real world.  Our consequences are irrevocably bound to the choices we make, right?

So, kudos to Kayla for taking responsibility.  Her stock just rose in my book.  But, this is a really good reminder for us all in two ways.  1st, take responsibility.  2, we have all kinds of payments, licenses, permits, etc. that expire or need to be updated.  If your fishing/hunting licenses are on autopay, and you have your card compromised, you probably forgot to update it after the bank issued you a new one.  Sure, you’re going to remember to update things like your utilities or monthly bill payments, but things that happen far less often might get forgotten.  …And nobody likes that sick feeling when you learn you’ve been breaking the law by accident.  Especially when you learn it from a guy with a badge.

I have a lot of people that pop into my shop to buy or transfer a firearm, and occasionally I have to turn them away because their permit is expired or their driver’s license.  Check your licenses before you go to use them.  It only takes a second or two to verify that you’re good to go before heading out into Iowa’s outdoors.  And thanks again, Director Lyons, for offering a good example to us all.

In Liberty,

Michael Ware
IFC