MONTGOMERY-This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the Exceptional Anglers event “Gone Fishin’, Not Just Wishin’” at Oak Mountain State Park. The annual event teaches students with special needs from the Shelby and Jefferson county school systems the art of fishing. This year’s event will be held May 14–16. Media Day will be Friday, May 16, from 9-11 a.m. The fishing and festivities will take place behind the park’s main office.
During the event students with special needs from the Shelby and Jefferson county school systems will be given the opportunity to fish. Students will also participate in art projects, perform with local musicians, listen to storytellers, and learn aspects of water safety including the proper use of life jackets.
N. Gunter Guy, Jr.
“This event serves hundreds of people who might not otherwise have access to a fishing experience such as this,” said N. Gunter Guy,
Jr., Commissioner, Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR). “Without the hard work of our volunteers and the support of the sponsors, this event would not be possible. We are very grateful for their help in enriching the lives of these students.”
Volunteer and sponsorship opportunities are still available. Contact ADCNR representatives Jerry Moss, 205-331-1390 orJerry.Moss@dcnr.alabama.gov, or Brenda Morrison, 205-477-6301 or Brenda.Morrison@dcnr.alabama.gov, for more details.
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Gone Fishin’, Not Just Wishin’ sponsors include: ADCNR, Alabama Gas Company, Alabama Power Company, Alabama Power Foundation, Alabama Power Service Organization, Alabama State Parks, Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries, Bessemer Eye Clinic, Bud’s Best Cookies, City of Pelham, Coca-Cola, Consolidated Pipe, Golden Flake, Publix, Jefferson County Adapted Physical Education, Jefferson County Board of Education and Transportation, Oak Mountain State Park, Pelham Police and Fire Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Shelby County Board of Education, and Syx Bait.
ADCNR’s Community Fishing Events serve Alabama kids, families, seniors, and disabled participants. Upcoming events for children, persons with disabilities, and seniors are listed at www.outdooralabama.com/outdoor-adventures/fishing.cfm.
MEDIA RELEASE/OUTDOOR ALABAMA/Doug Darr
