Kids flock to Sheriff's Fishing Day
By Anna Mitchell

(From Left) Co-Manager David Osbourne, Sherfiff Keith Lovin, Walmart Store Manager Blair Stanley and Co-Manager Jessica Schaffer smile after the biggest turnout ever for the third annual "Take a Kid Fishing Derby" at the Sheriff's Training Facility in Marble. The event attracted more than 400 people and was a huge success. Nearly 2000 fish were stocked in the pond where kids of all ages fished. Grown-ups and kids alike had a fun time participating in the festivities. The event, which was put on by the Cherokee County Sheriff's Department and Walmart, hope to attract an even bigger crowd next year.

This Saturday marked the 3rd annual "Take a Kid Fishing Derby" at the Sheriff's training facility in Marble. The beautiful weather attracted a huge crowd of nearly 400 people and made for a very successful turnout.

Children, parents, family, and friends baited their hooks and cast their lines in hopes of catching some of the 2000 fish that were stocked in the pond. People lined the banks eating and conversing with one another while kids of all ages tried their hands at fishing. Whether you were three or thirty, you were sure to have a good time.

(Left) Father John David Downs Sr. and son John David Downs Jr. had a great time catching the 24 inch fish that they proudly hold during the Kid's Fishing Day at the Derby on Saturday. (Middle) A youngster works hard as he tries to bait his hook. (Right) Wesley Lamb gives helpful pointers to his nephew Adam Moore on how to cast his line. While the weather was hot, it didn't stop people from coming out to spend time with family and friends and take part in a favorite American pastime.

"It was a lot of fun coming out here and spending time with my nephew Adam, I almost had a better time than he did." said Wesley Lamb who brought his four year old nephew Adam Moore out to enjoy the event. For everyone that showed up the derby was enjoyable whether you caught fish or not. The Cherokee Sheriff's Department and Walmart hosted the event and hope for an even bigger turnout next year.