Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey wrote this report and took the photos.
The Whiteside County Sheriff’s Department held their 47th youth Fishing Derby at Morrison-Rockwood State Park Lake Carlton, on Saturday, September 11, 2021. The Department was unable to hold the event in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sheriff John Booker noted the excitement of being able to hold this positive event, on the day that the Country was remembering the 9/11 terrorist attacks. “It says good things about our Country’s ability to bounce back, after the tragic events of 2001,” noted Booker.
Approximately 100 youngsters lined the shore of Lake Carlton on a day of perfect weather. Parents and grandparents assisted young boys and girls with advice and assistance in reeling in their catch. Every entry went home with a gift, due to the generosity of many local supporters: Lenhart Plumbing; Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol; Department of Natural Resources; Wal-Mart; Benson’s on Lake Carlton.
Names of gift winners were announced throughout the morning. A special gift of a boy’s and girl’s bicycle was presented by a drawing from each age group.
The Sheriff’s Department commitment to area youth was fortified. Past Sheriffs Roger Schipper and Kelly Wilhelmi were present and active in registration and catch recording.
