Dinner a success

EDITOR:

The 2009 High Sierra Flycasters fundraising dinner was a great success, thanks to the generosity of our supporters here in the Carson Valley.

Our fundraising dinner was an enjoyable event. It was, typically for us, an affair defined by its sociability and informality. We had an abundance of raffle prizes and a wonderful variety of silent auction items ranging from sporting goods and fishing trips to artwork. The grand prize was three days at Pleasant Valley and the door prize was a Sage rod and reel. Interestingly, the grand prize and the door prize were won by the same person. Talk about luck!

We always have a well stocked bar and a great dinner by Hey Ewe Barbecue. Our entertainment was live piano by Linda Sandstrom and a very nicely done slide show by Liz and Don Weirauch of the Angler's Edge. For the last couple of years Liz has put together members' photos from the past year. The photos are of trips, scenery, and, of course, some great catches. This is a really a nice touch because the show goes on throughout the evening, so you can watch it at a leisurely pace. There was also a tribute to one of our members, Joe Denton, who passed on unexpectedly this year.

This year the President's Award went to Jim Crouse, owner of Alpine Fly Fishing and manager of the Pleasant Valley Fly Fishing Preserve. He was recognized for all the support he has provided over the years for our causes. Mike Kingston was given a new vest in recognition for his service as president for the past two years.

High Sierra Flycasters, located in the Gardnerville-Minden area, is dedicated to promoting and preserving fly-fishing in the Eastern Sierra. We provide education, habitat maintenance, hands and money for conservation projects, and, we fish! In the past few years we have become active in supporting and sponsoring fishing retreats for cancer patients. We are active with Reel Recovery, Casting for Recovery, and Reel Kids. Reel Kids was started by one of our members and the hope is that it will be expanded to other areas. Our members provide sponsorship, funds and hands on help for these events.

HSFC is an active organization, we have monthly meeting with interesting programs. We also have a club fishout every month. The club is comprised of beginner and expert fly anglers. The club is noted for its helpfulness and hospitality. So if you would like to learn more about our club please visit us at www.hsfc.us.

Bob Taormina

High Sierra Flycasters