Courtesy Photo Nearly 20 youth attended the Alpena Longbeard’s 11th annual banquet held on April 7. Part of the club’s mission is to encourage youth involvement.

Alpena Longbeards held its 11th annual banquet April 7 at the Alpena Sportsmen’s Club. Kevin Burr of Burr Auctions served as emcee and auctioneer for this year’s event.

Shelby Hiestand, Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologist for the Northern Lower Peninsula Region, served as the keynote speaker. She gave a brief presentation about turkey statistics and the comeback of the turkey population in Northeast Michigan.

Jon Benson of JJ’s Catering provided light snacks and a delicious dinner buffet. Veterans in attendance were provided a military lapel pin in appreciation and recognition of their service to their country.

Banquet attendees had many opportunities to test their luck in an assortment of games, raffles, silent and live auction activities. These all were made possible through the generous support of local businesses and individuals who in some way supported or donated items for this year’s event. All fundraising proceeds stay local.

The mission of Alpena Longbeards is to preserve and support wild turkey habitats in Alpena and surrounding counties through activities and events that help raise awareness and encourage active involvement of all ages in regards to turkey conservation.

The club also encourages youth involvement through many sponsored activities throughout the year, including Catch & Release Fishing Day at Paxton Quarry, youth skeet shoot at Alpena Sportsmen’s Club, and kid’s birdhouse and feeder building day.

The group provides two $500 scholarships at Alpena Community College and helped sponsor Norway Resorts Annual Turkey Contest. Last year’s winner was Brooke McKenzie. The club also provides the winter feeding program for turkeys through corn distribution for at least three winter months of the year.

Donations made by the club included $250 to Alpena Vietnam Vets “Toys for Kids” program and $200 to St. Bernard’s Friendship Room . This year members participated in Alpena’s Avenue of Flags program as well.

The club meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at ACC. New members are always encouraged and welcome.

Current club officers include: Tim Haske, president; Wade Kowalewsky, vice president; Edith Utecht, secretary/treasurer; and Gary Metzke, Floyd Montie and Leonard Wieczorkowski, advisory board.

The next scheduled meeting is May 1. Watch The Alpena News for meeting announcements.

The Alpena Longbeards appreciated everyone who helped to make this year’s banquet a success. That success would not be possible without the generous support of local businesses, individuals, members, friends and others guests who attended.