Approximately 200 young fishers dropped their lines in the lagoon at Zemurray Park on Saturday, September 16, during the first annual Andy’s Fishing Rodeo for Kids, hosted by Kids Church in the Park. The event began at 10:00am and ran until precisely noon, when an air horn sounded, signaling the end of the competition. Fish were measured and prizes were awarded in two age categories: 9-12 and 8 & below. One tie for second place was broken by a nail-biting best 2/3 showdown of “Rock, Paper, Scissors,” which included two ties in itself.
Key sponsors for the event included American Bank, who donated up to 300 fishing poles for the competitors; Chris Gideon for Sheriff Campaign, who donated pastalaya and hot dogs for all; Smitty’s Supply, who donated buckets and lids; and Transport Ministries, who donated bottled water for the event. Several local churches and other donors provided additional assistance with the rodeo, which may become an annual attraction for the youth of our area.