LETTER FROM PRESIDENT

s the start of the holiday season and as usual it feels like a sled sliding downhill through the snow as we race to the end of the year. I always feel like the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is just fifteen minutes as we all scramble with holiday and travel plans. Being able to squeeze in a couple of fishing afternoons as we transition from fall to winter has helped me slow down the holiday race and keep it in perspective.

Our next chapter meeting is Thursday, December 2nd, at Dead End BBQ located at 3621 Sutherland Ave. in Knoxville. Join us at 6PM as we welcome Dave Carson of Little River Outfitters for a presentation on nymphing and Euro nymphing. This is our holiday meeting, and it will be an evening of great food and drink as we gather by the fireplace at Dead End BBQ.

In chapter news we welcome Robert Ogle as our new interim treasurer as current treasurer Bruce McNiel is stepping down to spend more time traveling and visiting family. I cannot express enough my thanks to Bruce for not only his dedication to the chapter but also his friendship. He has always been there when needed giving his time and energy selflessly to our chapter.

We also wish to congratulate chapter board members Jonathan Reynolds and Jonah Duran. Jonathan and his wife welcomed into their lives a new son, Watson Harrison Reynolds in November. Jonah Duran just got married this fall and we wish him and his wife the best as they start the next chapter of their lives.

January brings us the return of the “Ironman Fly Contest 2022” on Thursday January 20th, 2022. This is exciting new as last year due to restrictions on group gatherings we were unable to hold the event. This long running party is our biggest night of the year as we raise the funds to send a deserving child to Trout Camp in the Smokies each year. This rollicking evening of competition and fun raises the funds needed while offering great prizes to the competitors from our sponsors. Thanks to TFO Rods the first and second place winners will be taking home brand new Legacy 5 wt. rods. Prizes will also be awarded to remaining top contestants from our long-time sponsors. Registration for those competing will soon be opening so watch for the news on how to enter.

In closing we want to thank you for your continued support as we adapt and adjust to holding in person chapter meetings. As always you never have to be a Trout Unlimited member to attend any Great Smoky Mountain chapter meeting or event.

Remember to follow us on the GSM TU Facebook page and the chapter website. The Great Smoky Mountain Facebook page is the best way to follow us for the latest chapter information and any changes.

GSM TU FACEBOOK: http://m.facebook. com/GreatSmokyMountainTU/

Happy Holidays!

John Reinhardt

President