02/25/2010
Wetumpka NWTF Chapter Wins National Award for Educating Youth
EDGEFIELD, S.C. — Volunteers with the Elmore County Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation are dedicated to preserving North America's outdoor traditions by providing opportunities for youth to learn outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, shooting and more.
 Chet Mathews accepted the Best JAKES Event Award for 151 to 250 participants on behalf of the National Wild Turkey Federation's Elmore County Chapter (Alabama). Click image for print quality version |
The Elmore County Chapter, from Wetumpka, Ala., received a Best JAKES Event Award during the Federation's 34th annual National Convention and Sport Show. Divided into categories based on event size, the Elmore County Chapter hosted the nation's best event for between 151 and 250 youth. The convention, sponsored by MidwayUSA, was held in Nashville, Feb. 18 to Feb. 21.
"I'm so proud of our committee members who have worked so hard to put on a good event," said Chet Mathews, chairman of the Elmore County Chapter. "Events like ours get kids off the couch and into the outdoors. Enjoying the outdoors is not only hunting; it's learning about wildlife and appreciating God's creation. This award is a 'shot in the arm' for us to grow the event even bigger."
The Elmore County Chapter hosted a JAKES (Juniors Acquiring Knowledge, Ethics and Sportsmanship) event that was one of the best out of more than 1,000 JAKES events hosted by NWTF chapters nationwide.
"Hunting, fishing, shooting and other outdoor activities are safe, enjoyable and educational for youth," said Mandy Harling, JAKES program coordinator. "The Elmore County Chapter has taken the lead in their area for ensuring that young people understand how important conservation and being good stewards of land and wildlife are to our hunting heritage."
The NWTF's JAKES program is dedicated to teaching the principles of wildlife management and passing along the traditions of safe, ethical and responsible hunting to youth up to age 12.
The Xtreme JAKES program was developed for teens between the ages of 13 and 17. The program provides advanced outdoor opportunities and challenges more in line with older JAKES abilities and experiences.
Combined, JAKES and Xtreme JAKES events held throughout North America attracted more than 75,000 youth in 2009. The JAKES program is growing steadily, and earning a JAKES award has become increasingly competitive. Any local NWTF chapter that hosts a JAKES event can apply for the JAKES awards.
2010 Convention Sponsors: Affinity4, ATK/Federal Premium Ammunition, Bank of America, Bass Pro Shops, Benelli, Browning, Call Makers and Collectors Association of America, CamoFX, Chevrolet, Farm Service Agency, Foxy Huntress, Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center, HuntVe, Knight Rifles, Leupold & Stevens, Marlin Firearms Company, MeadWestvaco, MidwayUSA, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, National Band & Tag Co., O.F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., Mossy Oak and The Pursuit Channel, The Outdoor Connection, Remington Arms Company, Inc., SHE Outdoor Apparel, TriStar Sporting Arms, USDA Forest Service, Weatherby, Inc., Wild Turkey Bourbon, Winchester Division/Olin Corp.
