Local NWTF Chapter Flourishes Under Dynamic Leadership

Both graduates of North Carolina State University, Boyd, an accountant at North Carolina Specialty Hospital, and Martin, a blaster for an explosives company with a side venture in cattle farming, found themselves drawn to the NWTF during their college years. As active members of the NWTF chapter at North Carolina State, they quickly rose to leadership positions, with Martin serving as vice president and Boyd as treasurer during their senior years.

“Trey has always attended his local NWTF banquet at home ever since he was a kid,” Boyd said. “He also received the NWTF scholarship from Warren County. When he got to school, he and his roommates decided to attend a meeting, and the rest is history. He pulled me in so that we could work together, and we had a really progressive committee at NC State.”

Their journey with the NWTF didn't end with graduation. Upon returning home, their dedication to conservation caught the attention of the Warren County Double Beards Chapter. Chapter members invited them to join at an annual banquet, beginning a new journey within the organization.

“When we went to the meeting the following year, we were asked to take it over, and that is what we did,” Martin said. “If it wasn’t for our excellent and dedicated, committee members that we have helping us, none of it would be possible.”

Under their leadership, the chapter underwent a series of strategic changes aimed at modernizing operations and increasing community engagement. One notable change was the adoption of the EMS system, which improved the banquet processes by streamlining check-ins and ensuring smoother operations overall.

“The EMS system has been a major upgrade to our banquet,” Boyd said. “Being able to check people in and out so quickly not only makes it easier on us, but it is more pleasurable for our attendees. Being able to put all tabs and items in the system before people come to check out makes things go by quicker and is easier on everyone involved.”

In addition to their efforts to modernize operations, both are committed to sustaining the success of the Warren County Double Beards banquets by infusing them with novelty and excitement year after year. Their approach involves continually introducing fresh ideas, from intriguing raffles to engaging games and coveted prizes like firearms, ensuring that each event offers a unique and memorable experience for attendees. Neither hesitates to acknowledge their success is not a solo endeavor, emphasizing the invaluable contributions of the chapter’s dedicated committee members and the support of all involved.

“We try to maximize our space and resources to raise as much money as possible,” Martin said. “Our regional director, Trey Oliver, has a lot to do with this. The committee gives some ideas, Oliver does his tweaking, and it all comes together to make a great night for the turkeys.”

Deeply grateful for the contributions of their predecessors, Boyd and Martin are committed to upholding the legacy of the Warren County Double Beards’ previous leaders. With admiration and respect, they continue to uplift and recognize the successes of those who came before them, acknowledging the enduring impact of their dedication and hard work.

“The couple that was in charge before us, Tom and Linda McSwain, were two of the nicest people you will ever meet,” Boyd said. “They had many years dedicated to the chapter to keep it going. We gave them an award the year they stepped down for all of their hard work. They asked us to step in because nobody else really wanted the responsibility. So that’s what we did. All the committee members stayed the same, and we added a few new ones. With all of this help, we just had our biggest banquet ever last month.”

In early March 2024, the Warren County Double Beards Chapter hosted its annual banquet, achieving a remarkable feat by surpassing the total net proceeds from the previous year's event by $1,200. The 2023 banquet held particular significance as it coincided with the organization's 50th Anniversary and marked the first time Boyd and Martin presided over the event since assuming leadership roles. In 2023, the chapter was honored with the Golden Gobbler award for achieving a net-to-gross ratio of 50% or higher in funds collected. Boyd’s outstanding dedication and service was rewarded with the Volunteer of the Year in North Carolina.

Beyond their professional endeavors, the duo’s journey with the NWTF has deeply enriched their personal lives and strengthened their bond as a couple.

“Our involvement with the NWTF makes us put our heads together to figure certain things out,” Martin said. “I think that this involvement influences us as a couple because of our ability to work together. If we can work together to put on a great banquet, then we should be able to work together in life.”

As they chart a course for the future, Boyd and Martin remain committed to the NWTF's mission of wild turkey conservation and preservation of our hunting heritage, both of which require community engagement.

“We can see the future of our chapter holding steady,” Boyd said. “We have more and more people that want to come every year. If we just keep doing like we are, and with the help of our committee, there should not be a problem keeping this chapter thriving like it is.”