MIKE BRAUN WTU banquet helps fund projects

The Whitetails Unlimited organization is relatively new in the field of wildlife conservation, but it has done a lot of good since it was formed in 1982.
The organization's mission is to promote educational programs, habitat conservation and preservation of the hunting tradition for the direct benefit of the white-tailed deer and other wildlife.
On the local front, there are several very active chapters of WTU in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
One of those groups, the Mosquito Creek Chapter, will be holding its third annual banquet Saturday at the Yankee Lake Ballroom on state Route 7 in Brookfield.
What they offer
WTU banquets offer a chance to gather with friends and fellow deer hunters to swap stories, bid on WTU collectible items, buy sporting equipment or just have a good time.
Tickets for the local event are $50 each, $20 for spouses and $25 for children 15 and younger. All tickets are sold in advance.
Tickets can be ordered by calling Bob Melvin at (330) 876-3030, Ed Wolfinger at (330) 534-3601, Dennis Malloy at (330) 637-6699 or WTU National Headquarters at (800) 274-5471.
Attendance at WTU events such as these helps the organization raise funds for projects. The Mosquito Creek Chapter has raised about $80,000 at its first two banquets. Some of these funds have been donated to help a local NRA youth fest, a youth pheasant hunt in Kinsman, and the MRC Riverfest. The funds were also used to provide grants to 15 area conservation clubs for various events and projects.
The local event this year will again offer a wide variety of items for sale or auction, including a black lab puppy complete with shots, food, kennel and more.
On the national level, the WTU has three main goals:
A national educational campaign designed to address and instill in the general public, with emphasis on youths, a basic understanding of practical conservation measures.
Promoting the acquisition, restoration and management of wildlife habitat.
Preserving the hunting tradition for future generations.
Since its start in 1982, WTU has spent more than $22.6 million dollars on projects including research, wildlife agency assistance, habitat enhancement/acquisition, college scholarships, public education materials, hunter safety/education, anti-poaching measures and cooperative projects with other conservation organizations.
For more on WTU, check www.whitetailsunlimited.com/
braun@vindy.com