Sportsmen discuss potential projects for 2024

The St. Marys Sportsmen’s April Membership Meeting was called to order by President Kris Dippold. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, Secretary Joe Hoffman read the minutes of the March meeting, and these were approved as given except for a “small” name error. Joe, who is also membership chairman, reported the Club has 652 members as of April 1. Treasurer Jerry Goetz then presented the financial report for the month of March, and this was approved as given. Committee reports: Director Fred Fritz reminded members that everything, cars, boats, etc. needs to be out of the barn by April 15. Fred said that the barn has been rented for an event and will need to be cleaned before that can take place.

Director Jim Dippold reported that the renovations at the lodge have been completed and it is now available for rent.

Director Bill Kotalac, reporting on the rifle and pistol ranges, said they were in good shape and the amazing thing was, he found only two shotgun shells on the rifle range. Bill also reminded members that there is no member/ guest at the ranges. One must be a member of the club to use the ranges.

Director Phil Labant announced that the propane tank for the generator at the pavilion and the one for trout rearing pond have been installed. Phil noted that they will have to be tested before they can be used. Phil was at the recent federation meeting and discussed the bridge at Crooked Creek with the director of the Game Commission. Outcome-unknown currently.

Director Joey Dippold updated the members on the Fishing Derby to be held at Benzinger Park on April 27. The club will be supplying some of the fish for the Derby. New Business: Director Jerry Olson presented three possible projects for the club this year: A roof over the pistol range, a path to the 200 yd. target which would need pipe put in the ditch between the 100 yd and 200 yd targets, and checking the pipe between the spring house and the upper fish rearing pond to ensure water to the pond.

Jeff Schatz from Bucktail Archers explained their project of building a small pavilion (possible car port) by their current building.

Good & Welfare:

The rifle and pistol ranges will be closed on April 18 and 19 for police qualifications.

The Club’s Trap Field will open on Sunday, April 7 at 1 p.m. for open shooting. The Skeet Field is open on Fridays at 4 p.m. for open shooting.

There will be an Elk Co. Federation Meeting on Wednesday, April 10 at the Camp Owners. This is open to all sportsmen. The Pa. Fish and Boat Commission and the Pa. Game Commission are expected to attend.

The next membership meeting will be held on Monday, May 6 at 9 p.m.