Corp. Takes C.A.S.T. to Tenn-Tom
By: Art Pasley
By invitation from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, 37 children with various disabilities, and their families, participated in the first C.A.S.T. event ever held in Fulton Mississippi. With hopes of catching huge catfish from the Tenn-Tom Waterway, they arrived at the Jamie L. Whitten Educational Center, for their day in the sun. After a warm welcome from Park Ranger Ben Davis and a few inspiring words from yours truly, Clay Dyer was introduced and gave a very motivating talk to those in attendance.
For those of you unfamiliar with Clay, he was born without arms or legs, and has made a career in the world of Professional Fishing. "There is nothing I can't do. It may take me a little longer than most, but I never give up. Taking a special child fishing can be one of the most rewarding experiences an adult can have with a child". He also stated, "Within the sport of fishing it doesn't matter if you're sick or not, anyone can fish!" Truer words were never spoken.
As everyone moved to the covered pavilion for partner pairings, they were greeted and welcomed to the center by "Buddy the Beaver". Buddy posed for pictures and provided tons of hugs to all the kids. Buddy set a very good example for everyone wearing a U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest while providing a helping hand on the fishing pier. "Buddy is a great addition to our center," offered Ranger Davis. "We want everyone to understand the need for water safety and Buddy does a good job teaching those skills to everyone that visits our educational center". "The world could use a lot more Buddy's", he concluded.
Once paired with volunteers and outfitted with bait and tackle, everyone made the scenic walk through the trees to the fishing pier, and for many their first chance to fish. Bait boxes were placed in strategic locations for all the anglers as well as ice chest full of bottled water and Gatorade, which were a welcome site as the temperature soared. While the fishing was slow and the catching even slower, the fun level was at an all time high. "I love this" stated a very excited participant. "This is the first time I have ever got to go fishing. Will they let us come back if we want too?" "Your always welcome here", offered Ranger Davis.
The pier was filled with laughter and excitement as the Itawamba High School cheerleaders encouraged the young anglers to catch a fish. In addition, Clay Dyer moved through the crowd teaching kids to tie knots and giving helpful casting tips and words of encouragement to the young anglers. Soon everyone had endured as much Mississippi sun as they could stand and made their way back to the center for lunch and awards.
Ben Davis, Garvin Grey, Harry Stone, "Buddy the Beaver" and Connie Scheffield thanked everyone for being a part of their first C.A.S.T. fishing day and handed out prizes to most of the day's participants.
Not only was the Jamie L. Whitten Educational Center a great place for the event, it would also be a great family vacation site. With camping and fishing and surrounded by mountains, it truly is a beautiful place to be. Not only that, but now, it's another "Special Place" for "Special Children" to "Catch A Special Thrill". Thanks Ben and Garvin. I had a wonderful time and welcome to the elite group of "Special Thrill Makers".
|
(Click on a picture to enlarge)
|
