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Youth Education Report
by Greg Kucharewski
(from Jersey Coast Anglers Association April 2002 Newsletter)
NJ CONSERVATION OFFICERS ADOPT HOFNOD
The Future Fisherman Foundation’s “Hooked On Fishing Not On Drugs” program will be further introduced by law enforcement professionals throughout the garden state. Wayne Tonnensen, NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife is the lead conservation officer that will promote the FFF HOFNOD program in New Jersey. The JCAA Youth Education Committee will assist the program by recruiting volunteers from northern, central and southern New Jersey. Law enforcement personnel will adopt HOFNOD as part of their drug awareness program and work to certify HOFNOD instructor/volunteers. The main goal is to have a certified HOFNOD representative located in each of the twenty-one counties of New Jersey. I feel, since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, our security posture has changed and we must utilize all our resource to combat terrorism. It is a known fact that the evildoers build wealth through the sale of drugs to support their terrorist acts. If you would like to become a certified “Hooked On Fishing Not On Drugs” instructor, please phone 732-785-9278. NOTE: A local background check is required.
ATLANTIC CITY INTERNATIONAL SPORTSMEN SHOW
The JCAA Youth Education Committee assisted the RFA Atlantic City International Sportsmen Show during Saturday/Sunday April 16 –17, 2002. Sam McCauley helped children cut out and color their casting fish at the JCAA activity table. Dr. Eleanor Bochenek presented seminars about saltwater fish identification, pitch casting techniques and aquatic education. Approximately two hundred children attending the program received FFF “Hooked On Fishing Not On Drugs” stickers and a practice casting fish they designed for at home casting.
We appreciate the RFA’s contribution of craft materials for youngsters to make the colorful practice casting fish. I would also like to thank the many parent/adult volunteers that helped children trace, cut out, glue, paste, color, and fold paper fish.
PHOTOGRAPHS SENT TO ASA
We received a request from the American Sportfishing Association to supply photographs of children participating in “Hooked On Fishing Not On Drugs” events. If selected, the photographs will be featured in upcoming HOFNOD printed materials. The JCAA Youth Education Committee sent over twenty photographs from a variety of JCAA member clubs that hosted HOFNOD events.
YOUTH FISHING ACTIVITY BULLETIN BOARD
HOOKED ON THE HUDSON
Hey kids, don’t miss this one, Saturday, April 27, 2002. This club does a great job of directing families towards outdoor recreation. Hosted by the Hudson River Fishermen’s Association, their fishing contest is free for all that participate. There is no entry fee. There are no registration forms. Just come down to the Park, throw your line in the water and enjoy yourself. If you need help, HRFA members will be there for both adults and kids. This is their 17th year of providing this contest. It is open to all ages. The HRFA NJ will provide fishing instructions to all that ask. Parents who know nothing about fishing will be assisted as much as possible by one of our members to give personal assistance. You must bring your own fishing rod and reel with line. Members of the HRFA NJ will show you how to tie a proper knot, bait a hook, remove a fish and tag a fish. Do not be overly concerned with bringing the wrong size rod, reel or line. Bring what you have. Recommended rods are any size rod from 5 foot to 7 foot. Spinning rods and reels are easier casting for youngsters than bait casters. Line can be anywhere from 8 pound test to 17 to 20 pound test. Catch and release is suggested with tagging demonstrations given to all fish released. The Hudson River Fishermen’s Association New Jersey Chapter, will provide prizes. Dress warm. Check the weather report in case you need to bring rain gear. Bring a lunch basket. Bring a camera! Bring your dad and mom!
Free Assistance to all! Free fishing Instructions! For more information please see their web site - http://www.hrfanj.org.
LANES MILL SCHOOL READING RALLY
On Friday, May 17, 2002, the JCAA Youth Education Committee will host a casting and fishing fun day at Lanes Mill School, Brick, NJ in support of their Reading Rally.
BOY SCOUTS – SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY
The JCAA Youth Education Committee will supply the BSA Southern New Jersey Council in Manville with “Hooked on Fishing Not On Drugs” support material for their annual fishing program on Saturday, April 27, 2002.
NEWARK BAIT AND FLY CASTERS
Members of the JCAA Youth Education Committee will provide a youth fishing clinic at the Newark Bait and Fly Casters May meeting. Children attending the fishing clinic will receive information about Future Fisherman Foundation’s “Hooked On Fishing Not On Drugs program.”
BE SAFE-HAVE FUN-ENJOY FISHING