The Northwest CT Sportsman’s Council hosted its third annual fundraising banquet on Friday, February 7th at the Crystal Peak Banquet Facility in Winsted. Over three hundred sportsmen and women came out on a snowy evening to support the Council and enjoy an evening of good dining, raffles and a live auction.

Many notable political figures from the region were in attendance, each saying a few words to the gathering as they were introduced, and taking advantage of the comfortable atmosphere to speak to their constituents throughout the evening. Legislators attending the banquet included State Senators; Andrew Roraback and Thomas Herlihy. State Representatives attending included; Ann Ruwet, Roberta Willis, Craig Minor, Rich Ferrari, John Piscopo and George Wilbur. Also attending were Department of Agriculture Commissioner, Bruce Gryczyk and State Republican Committee member, John Morris.

Our special guests for the evening were DEP Deputy Commissioner; David Leff, and DEP Wildlife Division Director; Dale May. Both of these gentlemen were kind enough to address the assembly noting the cooperative nature of the relationship that has been established between sportsmen and the agency, and the continuing successes in promoting conservation and volunteerism that has resulted. Dale May spoke of wildlife management and habitat and the continuing role sportsmen play in maintaining the overall quality of both.

The highlight of the evening came with the call from our President for all delegates to come forward to the podium and be recognized by their fellow sportsmen. Our delegates are the men and women who promote the Council’s agenda of activism and volunteer effort. We value the contribution of time and effort of every delegate; however, as we have done in the past, one Council Member was singled out for his or her outstanding service during the previous year. The Council’s choice to receive this honor for 2003 is Mike O’Connell of Goshen. Mike is an active member of several clubs and organizations. He is a dedicated sportsman and an accomplished bow hunter. In 2002, our Council leadership asked Mike to supervise our efforts in the construction of a Wildlife Viewing Building at the Goshen Wildlife Management Area. Mike did much more than supervise construction; he was there for every work party and did most of the building himself. It was an interesting and involved project that would not have turned out so well without Mike’s help and expertise. Mike was presented with a bronze bust of a Bald Eagle on behalf of our Council to show our appreciation of his efforts.

It was a great event by all accounts, continuing the successes of our Northwest Council. Contributions received at the banquet will be used to fund the projects and efforts of the NWCSC in the coming years, directly benefiting the sportsmen and women of Northwest Connecticut.

Pictures of the event follow: