Friday, April 8, 2016

Sportsman's Wild Game Dinner


On a Friday evening in March, 290 men filled the First Baptist gym for the 3rd edition of the Sportsman’s Wild Game Dinner. They were greeted in the entry by quacking ducks, a camouflaged boat, and an ATV.  In the gym they were treated to several displays that included various game mounts--deer, antelope, fish, and a full-sized bear. The aroma of barbecued elk sausage provided a fitting atmosphere and raised the anticipation of what was to come.

Special guests included 12 first-responders, members of the business community, and a local radio personality. When all the men were seated, a team of high school students moved quickly through the room serving sausage, cheese and crackers which were followed by a full meal that included meat, salad, baked beans, and corn bread.  The meal was topped off with apple pie ala-mode. During the meal, a large variety of door prizes were handed out.  There was at least one gift for everyone present.  At the end of the meal, an oral auction was held that featured the dynamic Mark Hanke as auctioneer.  Auction items included a deep-sea fishing trip, beach house vacation, custom fishing pole, and a hunting rifle.

Mark Hoeffner, Executive Director at CB Northwest, was the speaker again this year. He shared pictures of some of his trips to Alaska, and related an exciting adventure when he explored the huge interior of a glacier.  During the exploration, he learned the danger associated with traveling into an enclosed area where there was an inadequate supply of air. One of his companions urged them to leave the glacier, and as they emerged into fresh air, they realized the peril they had avoided. He compared the importance of breathing to physical life and spiritual breathing that accompanies the new birth that comes from accepting Jesus Christ as savior. As a result of his talk, two men prayed to receive the Lord, one wanted to find out more about the Christian life, and eight others had life issues they wanted to discuss.

The success of the evening was supported by 11 full-time kitchen workers, two barbecue chefs, 19 young people servers (tips for the servers totaled about $ 900 for the high school spring retreat and an upcoming mission trip), and many volunteers.

The evening was a great time of camaraderie and fellowship.
--Clair Casterline

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