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This weekend, children of all ages are invited to experience the thrill of fishing during a special event as part of National Fishing and Boating Week. Taking place at Bass Pro Shop, this family-friendly activity aims to inspire young anglers and foster a love for the outdoors. In addition to hands-on fishing experiences, participants will receive free knot-tying kits while supplies last. This initiative aligns with Bass Pro Shop’s mission to promote outdoor activities and connect people with nature.
The event also highlights the company's commitment to community service by donating rods and reels to local organizations such as the American Legion. Participants who land their first catch will receive a complimentary photo souvenir. Even if you miss this weekend's festivities, there will be another opportunity in late September. To enhance your child’s fishing adventure, check out tips from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
This weekend offers an exciting opportunity for kids to engage in the joys of fishing through a unique in-store experience. Located at Bass Pro Shop, children can cast lines into specially designed catch-and-release ponds, fostering a connection with nature. The event is conveniently scheduled on Friday afternoon and throughout the weekend, accommodating various family schedules. Moreover, attendees will gain practical skills by receiving free knot-tying kits, preparing them for future fishing endeavors.
General Manager Chad Joyner emphasizes the significance of such events in promoting outdoor activities. As an avid outdoorsman, he shares his passion for inspiring others to embrace the natural world. Through the GO Fishing Fund, Bass Pro Shop has donated over 500,000 rods across North America, enriching countless lives. Observing the delight on children’s faces during these events fills him with immense satisfaction. It not only strengthens the bond between families but also encourages a healthier lifestyle connected to the environment.
Bass Pro Shop extends its generosity by gifting rods and reels to deserving organizations. Among the beneficiaries this year is the American Legion, which will utilize these resources to enhance their programs. These donations aim to provide opportunities for individuals to enjoy fishing and strengthen community ties. By equipping local groups with essential tools, Bass Pro Shop supports initiatives that bring people closer to nature and each other.
Joyner explains how these contributions play a crucial role in empowering organizations like the American Legion and Hunt for the Cure. Such partnerships ensure that more people can access recreational fishing opportunities, regardless of background or circumstance. The donation process reflects Bass Pro Shop’s dedication to giving back to the communities they serve. For those unable to attend this weekend’s event, the store plans to reopen the ponds in September, offering another chance to participate. Additionally, parents can enhance their children’s fishing experience by exploring helpful tips provided by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources online.




A new initiative is underway to ensure children in Oak Ridge, Oliver Springs, and Clinton have access to nutritious meals during the summer months. Through a collaboration between Oak Ridge Schools and Southwest Food Excellence LLC, free lunches are being provided daily at various locations via the ETHRA Sunshine Bus. This program, funded by a grant from Y-12 National Security Complex through East Tennessee Human Resource Agency (ETHRA), aims to bridge the gap when school meal programs are unavailable. Any child under 18 can receive a complimentary lunch Monday through Friday until June 27.
The summer meal service operates on a carefully planned schedule across multiple sites within the community. Starting with The Blossom Center in Oak Ridge at 10:30 AM, the bus then travels to the Oliver Springs Library at 11:30 AM. Following this stop, it heads to the Oak Ridge Outdoor Pool for an extended period from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. Lastly, the Clinton Splash Pad receives visits from 2:15 PM to 3:15 PM. Additionally, lunches are available at Oak Ridge High School Café earlier in the morning.
This endeavor marks an essential step toward addressing food insecurity among young people during vacation periods. Kristina Barnard, General Manager of Southwest Foodservice Excellence, expressed her dedication to maintaining support for students and their families throughout the year. She emphasized that partnerships like these play a crucial role in ensuring no child faces hunger during non-school times.
In addition to mobile distribution points, static venues such as the high school café provide further convenience for families seeking nourishment options. Such comprehensive strategies reflect a commitment to promoting well-being beyond academic settings alone.
With the backing of significant local organizations and agencies, this program exemplifies how collaboration can lead to meaningful solutions addressing critical needs. Families are urged to participate fully in this opportunity designed specifically to safeguard the health and welfare of their children over the summer break.