By Rich DeLisle
For many years our chapter has supported the annual Detroit Area Kids Fishing Derby. The event is run by Gary Williams – President of Hook Line and Sinker, Inc. Gary has run this Derby for 22 years for boys and girls age 7-14. Everything has been furnished for them, fishing poles, bait, pop, hot dogs, cookies, chips and many prizes. Lake Frances in Palmer Park is stocked with 3,500 hybrid bluegills to guarantee success.
I have been going to this event for many years. Joining me this year was our new Vice President of Southeast Bow Rob DeLaurier. Rob was amazed at how may kids attended. We have had as many as 700 kids in one day. As has been the case for all these years the kids were having a great time and many shouts of glee could be heard as they caught fish, some for the first time. Clowns were making balloon hats and ballon swords. Mounted Police were there.
Everyone always has a great time, and this has been going on for such a long time that youngsters from 22 years ago are now bringing their own kids. It has become a great tradition. Rob said he can’t wait till next year to come again as youngsters take their first step into the great outdoors. Many thanks to Gary Williams and his band of volunteers for all their hard work.
God Bless
Rich DeLisle