Welcome to Stockton Missouri. This was a first time C.A.S.T. Event in Stockton and what a day it was. It took several days for me to finally decide that my friend Zack was the perfect picture of what your efforts provide to your participants. It took that long because the smile and expression on his face was the same with everyone there that day. Not just the kids but everyone.
Tammy Huffman and the Staff from the Lake Stockton U.S Army Corp of Engineers, along with volunteers from the area provided a wonderful opportunity for a very special group of kids from the surrounding area. The day was magical. I saw kids arrive with high hopes of spending the day fishing and watched as they returned to shore with even bigger smiles and their new Boat Captain friends. I’m not sure who had more fun that day, but I know I really enjoyed being there myself.
Christmas is a time of giving and what you give to your communities is the greatest gift of all. You give of yourself without any expectations of receiving anything more than a Special Thrill in your hearts. I am so proud to be a part of your efforts and to call you my dearest friends. On behalf of everyone at C.A.S.T., the thousands of kids and family members whose lives you have touched, may God continue to bless you and your families. Have a wonderful holiday season and I look forward to seeing you all in 2008.
