Maine hospitality

Fourteen men and women attending the Outdoor Writers Association of America conference at the University of Maine

returned the true “Maine” hospitality extended to them by the Bangor Conference and Visitors Bureau by inviting 20 kids (through Downeast Big Brothers-Big Sisters) to become their “fishing buddies for a day” on Sunday, June 12.

Mike Roberts, a free-lance writer-photographer from Meriden, Conn., initially contacted Judy Vardamis by BCVB, and suggested the link-up for the day.

What an opportunity for the local youths! Not only did they have a morning of fishing at the Penobscot Conservation Association’s trout pond, instruction on shooting an air gun safely, and a hearty lunch and snacks, they also were each given a bag of take-home souvenirs, their rod, reel and outfitted tackle box, their catch, and fishing-hunting-safety brochuers from the game wardens who also attended and assisted in the event.

The kids thrived on the one-to-one attention, and the positive adult role modeling. You made their day! On behalf of all of them, a hearty thanks! Phyllis Borns, caseworker Downeast Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bangor