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| FishTails |
Governor Lauds Federation Accomplishments
[March 19, 2003] - by Chris Lawrence
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West Virginia Governor Bob Wise proudly displays the bass sculpture
presented to him by the WVBF.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
Governor Wise says he knows first hand how seriously members of the West Virginia Bass Federation view their role
in conservation issues in West Virginia and how seriously we fish.
Wise was the keynote speaker for the second annual West Virginia Bass Federation Banquet in Flatwoods February
28th. After viewing a 15-minute multi-media presentation on Federation activities, the governor remained in awe
of how much care our members take in their roles as stewards of the environment and handlers of fishing's next
generation.
"The West Virginia BASS Federation devotes substantial energy to supporting the Division of Natural Resources
fisheries management programs." Noted the governor.
"Whether it is participating in habitat restoration efforts in our reservoirs, or taking the lead on supporting
sound fishing regulations, the BASS Federation is there, willing to help."
"The same is true when it comes to supporting our youth." Continued Wise. " The Federation was always
there, reaching out to youngsters. In 2001,you stepped forward again, and became a partner in the Governor's Youth
in the Outdoors Challenge Spring Hunting and Fishing Event."
The Federation has again for 2003 committed to additional involvement in the Governor's Spring Turkey and Bass
Challenge slated for May on Stonewall Jackson Lake. Last year, Wise could not attend the event due to severe flooding
in McDowell County. However, during the inaugural year he was on hand and wet a line with Federation Conservation
Director Jim Summers. A trip he didn't forget.
"At that time, Jim was the West Virginia Federation champion. As I recall, neither of us caught a fish that
day. So, I held my own with the champion!" noted the Governor with a laugh. "Actually, Jim was a very
gracious fishing partner and I enjoyed that afternoon of fishing very much."
Wise noted the tremendous economic impact that fishing holds to the nation and the state of West Virginia.
"Fishing is an important recreational activity, nationally and in West Virginia. More than 34 million U.S.
residents fished in 2001. Almost 11 million of these folks were fishing for black bass. In West Virginia, 300,000
anglers enjoyed time on the water with families and friends in 2001. Most of them were bass fishing as well. It
looks like you are on to something, here. What started as a group of anglers interested in bass fishing, especially
competitive fishing, has turned into the premier bass conservation organization in the world. "
Governor Wise concluded his remarks by presenting an award from the DNR to Summers for his tireless, hands-on efforts
to promote protection of West Virginia's fishing programs and habitat management.
WVBF President John Burdette presented the governor with a ceramic largemouth bass jumping from the water at a
lure. An inscription on the mantelpiece thanked the governor for his efforts to promote fishing in West Virginia.
A reception room at the Governor's office in the state capitol building is filled with a number of similar artifacts
presented to Wise for his efforts in support of the outdoors. He promised the piece would have a prominent place
in the parlor of the most powerful office in the state.
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WVBF President John Burdette (l) presents the "Conservation Organization
of the Year" award to Washington, PA Bassmasters President Henry Likar.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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Hank Slemp proudly displays his door prize - a $50 Bass Pro Shops gift
card.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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The 2003 WVBF State Team sporting their 'Limited Edition" caps.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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2002 WVBF State Champion Scott Panas with his Terminator jacket.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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Stacy S. Twiggs, B.A.S.S. Federation Youth Manager (l) and WVBF Youth
Director Dion Bright at the annual banquet. Twiggs addressed the large audience with words of encouragement to
keep doing the great things we're doing.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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The 2002 Youth Team.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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West Virginia Governor Bob Wise took time to greet every guest as they
proceeded through the buffet line. The gesture was appreciated by the members and guests.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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Gov. Wise received a bass sculpture - created by artist George Kruth
- from WVBF President John Burdette.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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Gov. Wise praised the West Virginia BASS Federation for their tremendous
contributions to Conservation and Youth initiatives.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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Brett Preston, (l) of the WVDNR, listens as Governor Bob Wise (R) presents
Jim Summers with a Conservation Award.
Photo by Jim Matuga. |
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