Rotary pg 9 4-12-12
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- Category: Past Issues
By Ron P. Coderre
PUTNAM — Young fishermen under the age of 15 will soon be lining the banks of the Quinebaug River in the vicinity of Rotary Park for the annual Putnam Rotary Club Noe Poulin Youth Fishing Derby. The event is scheduled to cast off at noon and last until 3 p.m. on April 22. Registration will be from 11 a.m. to the start of the Derby.
The fishing derby, which is held annually, is free to all local youngsters. Competition will be held in age divisions as well as special categories such as, most unique fish, biggest fish, smallest fish and most fish caught. All winners will receive age appropriate prizes. Participants will be treated to famous “Rotary Hot Dogs” and soda served by members of the club.
“We want this to be a fun day for everyone involved. The members of our club look forward to this event every year, as it’s our opportunity to introduce Rotary to the kids and their parents. We’re hoping for the largest turnout ever this year,” said Ian MacLaren, fishing derby chairman.
Working with MacLaren on the organizing committee are Rotarians Joseph Adiletta, Willie Bousquet, Gerry Cotnoir, Donald King, Doug Valentine and Aileen Witkowski.
“The fishing derby is one of the many events conducted by our club every year. One of Rotary’s missions is service to youth. We realize that these kids are our future leaders, so we try in every way to encourage them by promoting positive activities such as this,” said Rotary President Cindy Dunne.
The State of Connecticut Department of Fisheries will stock the area of the fishing derby in preparation for this big day for the young anglers. There may be another Charlie Moore, The Mad Fisherman along the banks of the Quinebaug River on April 22.