HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – On May 24, kids patiently waited to reel in a big fish at Jeffers Bend Environmental Center during this year’s Take Kids Fishing Day. This annual event draws hundreds every year, giving kids the chance to spend a morning among community members in the great outdoors.
By 9:30 a.m., several young kids had already reeled in big catches, taking them to be measured and logged. Around 60 community volunteers assisted with the event, including Atmos Energy representatives who were cooking lunch for the kids, and Hopkinsville High School Students helping with parking.
“The great part about it is that the kids are having fun,” said longtime volunteer and Jeffers Bend coordinator Diane Turner. “It is a fantastic event! You see the parents, the grandparents and everybody out, and the weather is just perfect.”
A lot of friendly, familiar faces could be seen around the water during the event, with Hopkinsville City Council members and Fiscal Court magistrates working alongside volunteers, and Mayor J.R. Knight himself making the rounds and engaging with fishing families.
“I love being out and being part of the community. And, I think it’s good to let them know that I am here listening to them,” said Knight. He continued to praise the positive impact Jeffers Bend has on the community, commending the volunteers and residents that always come out and support events.
Council member Travis Martin was one of the volunteers transporting people to the best fishing spots. Between trips on the tractor, he told Christian County Now that this is his second year participating in the event, and he loves seeing the look on kids faces when they catch a fish. He said, “I always try to get out and give back to the community.”
Next on their schedule for the summer is the Hummingbird Festival in August. Between then, Jeffers Bend Enironmental Center is open daily with several miles of trails, fishing, a bird observatory, a pollinator garden, and outdoor fun.