Saturday, October 3, 2009 proved a fine day for fishing at the 11th Annual C.A.S.T. “Catch a Special Thrill” for Kids Event. The C.A.S.T. Foundation, created in 1991, aims to increase awareness about disabled and disadvantaged children in communities nationwide. This year, Lake Mead played nature’s host to 39 excited children from AmeriFace, the Blind Center of Nevada, Give me A Break, and the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Ranger Amanda Rowland and GBI Research Associate Laura Brinson gave participants and their families short interpretive talks on various animals that live in the Mojave Desert. The whole group also enjoyed a full morning of fishing. Afterward, the happy anglers and their families joined the hard-working volunteers for a fantastic lunch, provided by the Railroad Pass Hotel and Casino. Following lunch, participants were presented with a trophy and a gift bag filled with goodies. The Bureau of Reclamation is a primary sponsor of C.A.S.T. for Kids events. Cohosts of this event include the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, the Nevada Department of Wildlife, the Las Vegas Boat Harbor, and the Nevada Striper Club.
– Laura Brinson
