Fishing
Clinic Was Highlight of Division 21 Summerby Bill Wyrick
On July 17th Mother Nature smiled and a crowd of 231 happy children flocked to James River Pier in Newport News for the annual Kiwanis Fishing Day Clinic. Eight Division 21 Kiwanis Clubs provided the opportunity for needy kids from across Hampton Roads to learn to fish. Marine and law enforcement agencies tuned out in force to inform the participants about safety, conservation, and the environment.
Kids were selected by service providers and church groups. Among these were CHIPS, Volunteers in Youth, and Big Brother and Big Sister programs. Each child got a new rod and reel, tackle, tee shirt and hat to take home at the end of the day. All participants were served a lunch of grilled hot dogs, chips and sodas.
Support came from a variety of sources. The James River Fishing Pier donated the use of a segment of the facility to serve as the venue. Funding was provided by the Virginia Saltwater Recreation Association, U. S. Bureau of Land Management, and local businesses and individuals. Smithfield Kiwanis served as the host club.
This was a labor-intensive activity. To make this outstanding event happen more than 120 Kiwanis volunteers from eight clubs in Hampton Roads gave their time. Hats off to all the Kiwanians involved, especially Wesley, Darlene and Kimberly Brown, who coordinated the event. Pictured are Originator/Grant Manager Wesley Brown and Event Coordinator Kimberly Brown of Smithfield Kiwanis. They are all smiles after yet another successful Division 21 Kids Fishing Day.
