23nd Annual Mountain Music Kids Bass Tournament
This year’s tournament was held Saturday, July 28, at the Douglas Dam Camping Ground. There was a wonderful turn out to the 23nd Annual Mountain Music Kids Bass Tournament, and well over 350 children entered the tournament, drawing a crowd of over 3,000 people.
It was the mother of 15 year old Evan, a young gentleman who was diagnosed a year ago with bone cancer, who made the phone call to Mrs. Jackson that resulted in the Jackson’s reconsideration of their decision to cancel this year’s tournament. Mr. and Mrs. Jackson had had a difficult year and were contemplating doing away with tournament. It was the request from Evan to be in the tournament that caused Mr. & Mrs. Jackson to continue hosting the event. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency presented Stanley Jackson and The Mountain Music Kids Fishing Tournament with a Certificate of Appreciation for all of their hard work.
Professional Fishermen Ott DeFoe, who graduated from Jefferson County High School in 2003, fished with his daughter Miss Abbie. Defoe spoke to the audience, telling children to follow their hearts and if their dream is to fish, than to follow that dream no matter what obstacles may come. Mr. David Walker, who fished with both of his little girls, spoke of the joy and pride involved in the competitions.
Every child who entered the event got a T-shirt and cash and other prizes were awarded. Two lucky little boys won their very own Jon boats and one young gentleman won a big screen T.V. in a raffle. The youngest fisher was a seven month old little lady who won a trophy for her dedication and time.
