Striper Marina to Host Annual Fishing Tournament for Abused Children

will be hosting the 18th Annual Striped Bass Tournament this year from June 2 to June 5. The theme of the tournament is, "catching fish to help children," and all proceeds from the tournament are donated to Rhode Island shelters for abused and abandoned children.

The tournament was created as a way to aid the services provided to children who have been victims of abuse. Since the first tournament in 1994, the tournament has helped raise $74,000 for the Washington Park Children's Center for Abused and Abandoned Children.

According to a letter from Frances Murphy, Director of Washington Park Children's Shelter, donations from the tournament are sincerely appreciated and are shared with other area shelters.

Murphy writes,"these funds will be used to provide 'everyday activities' for the children, such as trips to McDonalds or to get pizza, movies, Fantasyland and to purchase arts and crafts supplies which are used daily."

The entry fee for the tournament is $10 for the men's and women's adult divisions and $5 for the 12-and-under junior division. In the four day tournament, registered anglers weigh in their stripers at either Striper marina or , and the top weigh-ins in each division (men, women, junior, charter boat, boat, bridges, etc.) are awarded prizes ranging from rods and reels to cash prizes. 

"We had about 175 people participate last year," said Al Elson of Striper Marina. "We hope to have as good, if not better, turnout this year."

Those interested in catching fish for a cause can pick up an entry form at Striper Marina in Barrington or Lucky Bait & Tackle in Warren. The deadline to enter is June 1. Anyone interested in donating prizes or money to the tournament can contact Al Elson at 245-6121.