“To fish or not to fish” has been on the minds of many with the recent postponement of the Family Fishing Derby for Kids with Cancer.

While it is hard not to enjoy the unseasonably early sunshine and warm temperatures, the forecasted warm weather for the next few weeks means the Family Fishing Derby cannot proceed at Horseshoe Lake.

Originally scheduled for last Monday on BC’s Family Day, the Family Fishing Derby had to be postponed due to heavy rain and slippery ice surface conditions. Now with the continued warm weather, the derby cannot be held on the ice, but, it will proceed at a new venue. Fort Steele Heritage Town generously offered the use of their site and together with JCI Kootenay, will be hosting a Family Fun Derby on land on Sunday, March 1.

The Family Fun Derby will take place from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Fort Steele Heritage Town and will have activities for all ages.

Look forward to Clydesdale wagon rides, obstacle and sack races, archery, best dressed dog contest, fishing-themed games and crafts and the movie ‘Penguins of Madagascar’ in the Wildhorse theatre. There will also be games and prizes for adults including a silent auction and 50/50 draw. Hot food and Tim Hortons chili will be available by donation.

The Family Fun Derby still has the same excellent prizes, including a flat screen television and gaming system donated by Caliper Machine and Hydraulics. However, for the serious fishing fans, the derby will save the grand prize pontoon boat for next year’s regular ice fishing event.

The Family Fun Derby is a fundraiser for local children with cancer. Proceeds are distributed by the Canadian Cancer Society to help with travel to and accommodations at treatment, as well as support services. With the generous support of Dacota Freight and Sunshine Houseboats, the Family Fun Derby also draws for two vacations for young cancer fighters. Children facing cancer across the Kootenays will be entered into a draw for a Disneyland vacation donated by Dactoa Freight or a Sunshine Houseboats vacation on Lake Koocanusa.

Those who purchased tickets for the ice fishing derby can use their tickets for the Family Fun Derby. Tickets are also still available to purchase at their original locations: Mountain Man Outdoors, Canadian Cancer Society, Fort Steele Gas Station, Overwaitea Foods and Home Hardware (Kimberley). Tickets will also be available at Fort Steele Heritage Town leading up to and on the day of the event. Tickets are $5 for children and seniors and $10 for adults.

For more information, contact JCI Kootenay organizer, Mike Matejka at 250-919-5532 or at [email protected].

JCI Kootenay (Junior Chamber International) is a young service group committed to creating positive change in their community. To learn more about JCI Kootenay, visit www.jcikootenay.com.

JCI Kootenay

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