The New York State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation held its annual awards banquet and meeting this past weekend (Jan 8-9) in Syracuse, NY. There were over 110 members representing many chapters from across the state. We were proudly honored to have in attendance Becky Humphries CEO and Phil Ferrare DFO from the NWTF headquarters in Edgewood, SC.

The Sullivan County Long Beards (SCLBs) were once again honored with being the outstanding NYS Chapter for their outreach programs with the JAKES. (JAKES-Juniors Acquiring Knowledge Ethics and Sportsmanship). Our youth, the future sportsmen and conservationists.

Our chapter president, Butch Kortright serving as NYS Chapter JAKES Coordinator, had the honor of presenting the 2021 NYS JAKES Member of the Year award to Nathaniel Viningre, long time member and volunteer of the SCLBs. This being the most prestigious honor for youth within the NWTF.

The SCLBs were also honored for obtaining the 3rd highest cumulative net 2021 funds generated for the NWTF’s mission and goals. The chapter was also recognized with an award for 2020 titled “Answering the call” which, thanks to our supporters (especially the Rockland House), was for successfully holding a full-scale fundraising banquet under Covid restrictions.

Recognition for these accomplishments is a true testament of the loyal membership and supporters to our chapter and the NWTF.