by Sylene Argent
Fishing enthusiasts, and those wanting to support local businesses, were able to participate in the Rotary Club of Harrow’s first Spring Bloom & Boat Show on Saturday.
The event offered community residents a chance to visit boat vendors and owners, shop for plants, peruse tables overflowing with wares from local vendors who set up shop onsite, and participate in a scavenger hunt in downtown Harrow. The scavenger hunt had participants visit local businesses to collect letters to spell “Walleye Duck Derby,” then head back to the event site for a chance to win a prize by picking out a rubber ducky out of a small pool.
Ray Fischer, Past President of the Rotary Club of Harrow, said the event was organized as a way to use the greenspace on the corner of King Street and Victoria Street, where the Rotary Hut is located. It also acted as a way for the community to get excited for the Rotary Club of Harrow’s upcoming Greg Horoky Colchester Walleye Derby and Rubber Duck Derby on June 10.
He and Greg Horoky spoke about the opportunity of hosting a boat show leading up to the much-anticipated fishing derby, that will likely lure in 250-300 anglers to the Colchester Harbour.
Saturday’s event and the upcoming Walleye Derby, both as Harrow Rotary Club fundraisers, will help to recognize of the local volunteers who put service above self to support other community causes.
Participants to the boat show, in addition to taking a peek at boats and perusing the nine vendor tables, were able to purchase a hot dog or hamburger, or treat themselves to theatre-style popcorn, which Fischer said was a big hit.
On June 10, in addition to welcoming anglers to Colchester Harbour, members of the Rotary Club of Harrow will sell breakfast sandwiches to the fishermen. In addition, the youth fishing derby will be held off the Colchester Harbour dock. New this year, a raffle will be held for the youth entries, thanks to the generous support of local businesses.
That day, a vendor show will also be held in Jackson Park, and a bouncy castle will be available for the younger participants.
New this year, a cornhole tournament will be hosted as well, in addition to the traditional Kinsmen tent, which will welcome the Dolson Road Band. The traditional perch dinner will also be included.
With the Town of Essex Soapbox Derby scheduled for June 24 as well, Rotarians will be busy in the coming weeks. All of the planning and executing of the events would not be possible without the members and friends of Rotary, who volunteer their time and efforts to help.
Those looking to volunteer, including high school students in need of community service hours, can email ray.fischer60@gmail.com to learn more. For more information about the fishing derby, log onto colchesterwalleyederby.com