50th Anniversary Celebration

 Three of the founding members of the Susquehanna Chapter of Trout Unlimited. From Left to right: Dick Leaver, Bill O’Connor, and Bob Rinn

     Everyone who attended the Anniversary Celebration Dinner at 33 East Restaurant had a great time and left with great memories and new friendships.  We were very fortunate to have had three of our founding members present as well as many long time members.  It was a great night meeting  new friends, sharing stories, and in sharing a great night with everyone.  There was a large memorabilia display highlighting some of the Chapter events and activities over the last 50 years; and a silent auction was held with items donated by Tom Finkbiner of the Slate Run Tackle Shop, Orvis, LL Bean, Steven Shaner, Ken Hunter, Dave Craig, Mike O’Brien, Truman McMullen, and Mark Susinno.

     We were very fortunate to have had many distinguished guests attend and they were: Bryan Moore, Vice President of Volunteer Operations for National Trout Unlimted; Brian Wagner, President of the PA Council of Trout Unlimited; Sherwin Albert, Vice President of the PA Council of Trout Unlimited; Ben Hayes, NorthCentral Region Vice President for the PA Council of Trout Unlimited; John Arway, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission; Bill Worobec, Commissioner for the PA Fish and Boat Commission and Chapter member; and Jeff Wheeland, Lycoming County Commissioner.

     We were entertained by Ken Hunter who gave us a very insightful and fun look into the life of an artist.  He had many slides to show and a great story behind each one.  He shared where his inspiration comes from to do the paintings he does and how his love of the outdoors allows him to do what he does.

     The entire evening was fun and memorable and I made many new friends and am looking forward to the future where we will be making new memories and more opportunities for getting together.