DBS - great post -good reasons and logic. Your ideas for the season change are pretty much what I would veiw as fair to all.
At the risk of sounding selfish(of which I have been accused by some) the late season could include bow. I know hundreds of bowhunters and can't name 10 who use the late season.
I am an avid bowhunter out every chance I can in the early season, but hang it up when the cold and snow start. So I don't think the few bowhunters who would be out would effect the mz'ers at all. If you see me out, it will bundled up like Frosty with my Omega.

Steve