HAMPTON
The weather was perfect with the clouds overhead hiding the sun and low temperatures as the youth and staff of the Franklin Summer Super Jam programed traveled to the James T. Wilson fishing pier at Buckroe Beach in Hampton. The group was attending the 16th annual Kiwanis Fishing Day Clinic that was held on Tuesday.

This annual event allows about 300 area youth ranging from 8 to 12 years of age to experience a great day of environmental education, fun, fellowship and fishing.

After checking in for the event, the youth were given the educational session and the safety portion of the event by members of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Next, on the schedule of the day was a presentation by Lewis Fillingham of the Virginia Marine Resources Commission about the type of fish, etc., that they might catch during their fishing day at Buckroe Beach.

Afterward, they were given their fishing equipment/bait and it was off for a morning of fishing in the Atlantic Ocean. Many of the youth were very successful in hooking a fish, but were quick to talk about the big one that got away from them.

By noon all fishing was concluded, and the youth enjoyed lunch all compliments of the Kiwanis Club. Wesley Brown of the Smithfield Club serves as the chairman of the event.

The Franklin Summer Super Jam program is sponsored by the Franklin Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Virginia & the Franklin Department of Parks & Recreation.