The BV Labor Day Fishing derby was a great success with 107 kids fishing, the most ever, @70 fish caught and the BV Optimists Club providing both breakfast and lunch. While I had helped as a volunteer a few times in the past it was my first time to run the show. It was incredibly easy to follow in the footsteps of the great job Bob and Marjie Gray had done for the previous 20 plus years. They deserve a huge thank you for that long term commitment.

Warden Kevin Madler and Kail, another CPW warden, gave the kids a nice welcome as well as information about fishing rules and regulations. CPW also provided over 50 rod and reel combo poles so everyone who wanted one came away with the ability to continue fishing.

There were over 20 CCTU volunteers who helped rig rods with line and bait, measured fish, registered the kids, and helped put up and take down the registration area. Thank you to all who volunteered. Many said it was the most fun thing they did with CCTU and they were so pleased that it came together again.

There were 5 winners awarded prizes as follows:
* First girl to catch a fish Madison Smythe 11 years old in 45 seconds
* First boy to catch a fish Wade Eleson 9 years old in 15 seconds
* Longest fish girl Violet Eleson 14 years old 12 1/2 inches
* Longest fish boy Dominic Goodwin 9 years old 12 1/2 inches
* Youngest catch a fish Woodrow Choate 3 years old 10 1/2 inches

We had a great weather day and want to again acknowledge the Optimist Club for the food they provided, the CPW for the rods and reels and most particularly for stocking the pond with fish the day before the event, and all the CCTU volunteers for their help in making this event happen.