Lake Thunderbird C.A.S.T. Event a Real Knockout
By Art Pasley
To say that the annual Lake Thunderbird C.A.S.T. event in Oklahoma is a good event would be like saying Muhammad Ali was a good boxer. With well over 80 volunteers on hand at this year's Bureau of Reclamation C.A.S.T. Event, one could only describe it as a first round knock out.
Volunteers from area Albertson's food stores not only provided food, drinks, ice and water to the 38 participants and 42 boat captains, they also assisted in everything from food preparation to site clean up. "We are so happy to be a part of the Lake Thunderbird C.A.S.T. event" stated Sharon Perry, local area manager for Albertson's. "This is such a wonderful program and we are proud to be able to participate as an event sponsor", she concluded.
Jeff Tompkins and the Reclamation staff, Susan Hendon and the Thunderbird State Park staff and Less Cummings with the Thunderbird Sailing Association, joined forces again this year to conduct the annual event for disabled children from the Norman, Oklahoma area. As in years past, this event has proven the power of partnerships as it continues to be one of the best run C.A.S.T. events in the country. "I can't believe we have this many volunteers", stated Tompkins. "This is going to be a great day for the kids", he continued. "We have prizes for everyone and plenty of boats". And great it was! As the kids were partnered with their captains, they left the dock outfitted with rods and reels, tackle boxes, life vests and official C.A.S.T. clothing.
Once everyone returned to the Thunderbird Boathouse, they enjoyed pizza, hamburgers and hot dogs with all the fixings, prepared by the Albertson's volunteers. Susan Hendon and others handed out Blue Bell Ice Cream bars to everyone for desert. As the awards ceremony began, guest speaker Ron Stahl from the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department introduced the hosts, volunteers and sponsors for the event. Each boat captain introduced their participant, and had a few words of praise for their efforts, as they presented their partner a plaque. "I really enjoy this day", stated Mike McGregor. "This is my fourth event and it gets better every year. I really enjoy spending the day with the kids and this year my son was here to help".
As always, all good things must come to an end, but not until the boaters, partners and parents shared a few kind words with everyone involved in hosting the event. Shortly after the group picture was taken, the area was cleared and the only thing left were the memories of another day of Special People, helping Special Children, "Catch A Special Thrill"!
Thanks to Jeff Tompkins, Susan Hendon, Les Cummings, Chad Cox, Ron Stahl, Fred Landefeld, and Sharon Perry. You are all very "Special Thrill Makers"
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(Click on a picture to enlarge)
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