8th Annual C.A.S.T. For Kids on Shasta Lake
It is very hard to explain what a CAST For Kids event is without smiling from ear to ear and getting all warm and fuzzy inside. There is nothing like it. You just have to experience it, and once you do you will be hooked for life.
With eager anticipation, we looked forward to see "our kids" again, and to have the opportunity to meet the new ones coming to experience their first C.A.S.T. For Kids event. It was really great to see the smiles, get the hugs, and watch these special kids enjoy the outdoors, and get to be just that- kids.
Our day started with a parade of bass boats arriving at Packers Bay Marina, ready to take the eager kids out on the glassy lake, and the lake did not disappoint. Many fish were caught by the excited children - and the sense of accomplishment and pride was evident in their huge smiles.
Three bass clubs participated this year, coming from as far away as Red Bluff. Each captain had his favorite "spot" where the fish were biting. As the kids started to arrive, the friendly rivalry between the bass clubs became more evident - there was club pride on the line for who brought in the most fish. Poles were rigged, boats were readied, and the lake was calling. After a brief boating safety talk by Shasta County Sheriff's Office, lifejackets were tightened and the boats hit the water.
This year 37 special needs kids participated in the 8th annual Shasta Lake C.A.S.T. For Kids. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and it warmed the hearts of everyone around.
After a few hours of tossing their lines in the lake, the excited kids returned to shore to enjoy a terrific BBQ lunch prepared by the Redding Elks Lodge. As the kids showed off their catch to each other, the boaters beamed with pride as they knew those special fishing "spots" had paid off in a big way for these special kids.
The kids were all given plaques with their photo of them and their boat captain to commemorate the day, along with a goody bag filled with items donated by local businesses, what a perfect ending to the perfect day.
As we pack up to go home, taking down awnings, packing up boxes, folding up tables and chairs, what's amazing is how the excitement of the day continues on, even though the kids have left. I don't know who gets more out of C.A.S.T. For Kids- the terrific children, or the volunteers. It's hard to say whose smiles are bigger. You can catch some of the action at: http://www.shastalake.com/castforkids2007/
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