C.A.S.T. KICKS OFF 2005 IN THE DESERT
As it has been for the last six years, Lake Pleasant, near Phoenix, Arizona, was the site for the first C.A.S.T. for Kids event of the year. This year's event was held on March 26th under clear skies, on a cool, especially for Arizona, winding day. This did not, however, dampen the spirits of anyone, let of all the 45 children that attended the event.
Sponsored by the Bureau of Reclamation, and strongly supported by the Arizona Bass Federation, this event has become one of the best and smoothest run of any CAST event in the country. Reclamation, lead by Steve Johnson, also does most of the planning and site work for the event. It's a big job, but with the help of other local volunteers and sponsors, they do an outstanding job and make it so easy for the kids and their parents to have a wonderful worry free day.
And what can I say about the turn out of the Arizona Bass Federation. How impressive is it to come into the parking lot area where the event is taking place and see 50 tournament quality bass boats along with their tow vehicles lined up ready to take these anxious and excited kids out for a day of fishing. I was absolutely blown away. This Federation, lead by the efforts of its Secretary, Brenda Johnson (no relation to Steve), has every right to be proud of its caring and dedication to these special needs kids.
The day, because of the efforts of ALL of the volunteers, was an absolute success. Many of the kids brought in beautiful largemouth bass to show off, but even those few that didn't catch a fish had a great time riding around in those high performance bass boats. Some even got a chance to drive them.
The day finished off with a great, all you could eat, BBQ for all the kids, families, and volunteers. This was followed by trophies and goody bags handed out to all of the kids, plus a special plaque with a photo of themselves and their boat captain to take home as a special memory of the day.
My thanks to all of these SPECIAL PEOPLE THAT HELPED SPECIAL KIDS CATCH A SPECIAL THRILL.
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