Letters to the editor: 08/02/01

Kids Fish Day successful because of volunteers

To the Editor:

The annual Kids Fish Day was held last Saturday at the Western Carolina University picnic shelter. More than 35 youth enjoyed a great day of learning, fishing, food and fun.

Over the past few years this program has helped many youth learn to enjoy the fun of fishing and the enjoyment of the outdoors. It is a tremendous site to see the enjoyment on these children's faces as they catch their first trout or feel the enjoyment of that first strike at their line.

It is also great to see parents and children side by side enjoying the great sport of fishing and spending quality time together.

This event could never happen each year with out the tremendous volunteer efforts by the Smoky Mountain Sportsman Association. These men give much time and effort to make this event such a special time for all the children involved.

From the time of making up over 40 fishing poles, to the time of stocking and preparing the stream, to the endless repairs to poles and untangling lines, to the preparing of the very enjoyable fish fly (what great hushpuppies!), they do all this because of their love for children and the outdoors. These men and their group should be commended for their efforts to continue a great heritage and a lifetime sport.

Again, a special thank you from all of the participants this year and in years past. You have touched many lives in a very positive way. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Jeff Carpenter

Director Jackson County Recreation and Parks Department

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