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Fishing derby set to be fun for the whole family
By Courtney Llewellyn
Reminder Assistant Editor
HAMPDEN Art Booth of the Hampden Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 9397 sees the post's annual fishing derby as "a nice pre-Mother's Day" event. Taking place May 10, the event is open to all children up to age 12 as long as they bring their parents with them.
"It's just a fun time," Booth said. "We still get stories from grandparents bringing their grandkids who fished 40 years ago."
The fishing derby will take place at the Scantic River, located behind the VFW post at 190 Main St. in Hampden. Prizes will be awarded to boys and girls for the biggest fish and the most fish caught. Booth said the winners could receive fishing equipment or cash prizes, depending on what's been donated.
It is up to the children whether they keep the fish they catch or re-release them back into the river.
Hot dogs, chips and soda will be available for the young fishermen and coffee and donuts will be offered to their parents and grandparents.
In addition to being a great family time, Booth sees it as an opportunity to introduce youth to nature.
"It brings a lot of children out into the field, out of doors," he said, "and then down the road, these same kids turn out to be conservationists."
Children interested in participating can register the day of the event, taking place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the VFW.
"[The fishing derby] is my favorite time of the year," Booth said.
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