Civitans host special day of fishing

Fishing with a cane pole on a warm spring day brought smiles to about 80 faces at Lawson Creek on Wednesday.

For Tuesday Hurst, 28, it brought some kidding about "Tuesday catching a fish on Wednesday."

The New Bern Civitan Club was host to children and adults with developmental disabilities who are served by Coastal County Enterprises, Special Olympics Craven County and the RHA Howell Center in River Bend.

The Civitan volunteers provided the cane poles, bait, picnic lunch and guidance for everyone participating in the 15th annual event.

Hurst who works full time at Wal-Mart, said "it is really enthusiastic to be here," as she intensely watched the cork on her line, hoping it would go under water.

"This is really fun. When I lived in Wilmington with my grandmother and aunts we went fishing many times," Hurst said.

Her fishing buddy, Elosia Rodriguez, 21, didn't want to answer questions. She just wanted to fish.

Eddie Skamaarkas, 37, a student in  Craven Community College's compensatory education class, said he enjoyed going to school at the college. "But I like fishing here with my friends," he said.

Civitan President Rich Daniels  said he and his club members relish bringing enjoyment to people with special needs. "They don't get many chances to go to the park," Daniels said. "It's rewarding for them, but the real reward is for us."

Ben St. John, a club member, said the Civitan mission is to assist people with developmental disabilities.

Civitans hold fund-raisers to support national and international efforts, but much of the money stays in the community to build wheelchair ramps and sponsor special events such as the Special Olympics.

The clubs also support the Civitan International Research Center in Birmingham, Ala. The center provides service, education and research for the individuals with development and developmental disabilities.

Anyone who wants to know more about the New Bern Civitans or how to help can call Daniels at 224-1446.