Games, giveaways complete successful derby

The directors of the Emo Walleye Classic had promised there would be much more than fishing to keep people occupied—and they came through in spades.
The children’s centre at the Emo-La Vallee Arena proved to be a big hit with the younger crowd, said children’s activities co-ordinator Carrie Baker.
“The kids had a great time and so did the organizers. We hope to have many, many more next year,” she remarked, noting the work of all the volunteers did not go unnoticed nor unappreciated.
“I want to express my thanks to all the volunteers who helped me, and special thanks go out to Stephanie Strachan, Jen Beach, and Nicole Simmons,” Baker added.
Simmons also correctly guessed the weight of the walleye on display in the tank (0.7 pounds), taking home a Siamese fighting fish for her efforts.
Meanwhile, Giselle and Dedrick Smith came closest to guessing the number of goldfish crackers in a jar (they guessed 6,000 and the actual number was 6,008).
There also was a colouring contest for different age groups, with the winners being Nolin Spuzak, four, Megan Kaemingh, nine, and Taylor Meyers, 12.
In addition, a total of 32 prizes were given away at the penny table—ranging from fishing supplies to bird feeders.
Like many others on the committee, Baker said she intends to be back next year to make sure the tournament is as successful as it was this year.
Besides, with her husband, Todd, in the winners’ circle, it would be hard not to go for a repeat.
“This was extra sweet for me,” she said. “We on the committee do a lot of work and for my husband to win just topped off the weekend.”