"Wishes Came True in Providence"
By: Art Pasley
Roger Williams Park & Zoo, in Providence Rhode Island, became the site for many young dreams to come true as volunteers, boaters and the Thetonia family provided a day of "Special Thrills" to a very deserving group of kids. This year's C.A.S.T. event was one of the most exciting I have attended and without a doubt, one of the most heartfelt efforts by a group I have ever witnessed.
As boats began to arrive and volunteers from Telecom Pioneers set up sign in tables, banners were hung around the Temple of Music by the Rhode Island Junior Bassmasters. Just as everything was organized for the day, a group of 40 kids from the Wish Come True program arrived with hopes of catching a fish.
As the pairings were about to begin, Mayor David Cicilline arrived with two very special Citations for Mike and Delainey Broggi for their effort to introduce disabled and disadvantaged children to fishing. Delainey received additional recognition for being the Rhode Island State Bass Federations Junior Angler Champion.
With the coverage from two local television stations the kids and families felt like real celebrities as the boater captains provided an excellent day of fishing for all the kids. As they returned to shore, they had the opportunity to release their catch into holding tanks for all to see. I am here to tell you there were some very proud smiles that day around those holding tanks.
After the shore lunch, provided by the Telecom Pioneers, Russ Thetonia began the awards ceremony by asking each Boat Captain to present the plaque to their partner for the day. This was an especially rewarding time for everyone. Most of these kids have never had the opportunity to stand in the winner's circle, but today, they stood tall and proud as they were praised by their Boat Captain and applauded by all.
Our hat's are off to Russ and all the crew in Providence for making dreams come true for a very Special group of kids.
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