The 26th Annual Big Bass Classic is now set for Saturday, June 25, at Wright Patman and Millwood Lakes. Also, don't miss the fun at the Big Bass Blast Expo and Auction happening Friday night before the tournament.

Fun events are planned for Friday, June 24, and Saturday June 25, to help raise money for Opportunities Inc., and to help educate the community with the many different services that Opportunities Inc., offers for both children and adults with special needs.

I asked Jennifer Teeters, the grants and communication specialist for Opportunities, Inc., why this event was so important to our community.

"This event raises funds that are critical to ensure that Opportunities can continue to provide therapies, nutritious meals, work training, transportation and housing to children and adults with disabilities and the elderly. Because we have so many generous people in our community willing to invest in us through this tournament, we are able to reinvest it back in to those in our community who need it the most."

More than 350 people fished the tournament last year and more than $30,000 in cash and prizes were awarded. Participants can fish their choice of Lake Wright Patman or Lake Millwood on Saturday. This year, the grand prize is a Tracker Bass Boat or the winner can choose $10,000 cash. Prizes are paid out to the first 10 places.

Also on Saturday is the 3rd Annual Little Big Bass Kids Derby at at Ferguson Park Lake. This derby is free for children 12 and younger. Winners will walk across the main stage prior to the Big Bass Classic weigh-in.

The Big Bass Blast Registration Party and Auction will be held at the Four States Fairgrounds Indoor Arena on Friday at 6PM. The event is open to the public and is fun for the whole family. Naaman’s Championship BBQ will cater the party. Kids will enjoy face painting and bounce houses, and several local marina stores will have boats on display. A huge silent and live auction will be held.

You can stop by Bradford Marine for registration forms. Online registration is still available, but a special orange Bradford entry form must be submitted prior to the tournament to be eligible to win the boat. The form can be dropped off at Opportunities, Inc., or Baits-N-Blades, or simply bring it to the Big Bass Blast on Friday, June 24.

Opportunities, Inc., provides many children’s services: Early identification screening, assessment and evaluation, infant development, family support, feeding and eating skills, speech and language therapy, special instruction, occupational therapy, physical therapy, preschool activities and many other servicesThe Adult Development program at the Adult Services Center at Opportunities, Inc., provides daily specialized services for adults who have developmental disabilities. People who participate are trained in the skills of daily living while increasing their independence and self-sufficiency. For more information visit Opportunities Inc., online or follow them on Facebook.

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