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Go Fish For A Cause

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By JOHN CEBALLOS

The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 27, 2008

RUSKIN - After two successful years, organizers behind an event to benefit deaf and hard-of-hearing children hope the third time will continue to be the charm.

On Sept. 13, anglers from across the state will assemble in South Shore for the third annual Get Hooked on Hearing fishing tournament at the Inn at Little Harbor, 611 Destiny Drive.

The tournament will feature six hours of fishing with in-shore catch-and-release for redfish, snook and trout.

The event will benefit the Bolesta Center in Tampa.

"We had a great time last year, and we're also hopeful that we can surpass the success from last year's tournament," said Laura Hill, event chairwoman.

Hill said she expects close to 150 people to register for this year's tournament after last year's raised more than $30,000 for the center.

During the late 1940s, Ethel Bolesta pioneered the first hearing testing program in Hillsborough County schools. The center, at 7205 N. Habana Ave., was founded in 1961 by Bolesta with the help of a group of parents with hearing-impaired children.

Hill hopes this year's proceeds will surpass the $50,000 mark.

After registration and breakfast at 6:30 a.m., the boats will depart at 8 with licensed fishing guides. Each boat will have up to three competitors.

"We do several fundraisers every year, and we've gotten a lot of support from the community and from sponsors because it's for a really good cause," said Krisi Whitcher, fund development assistant for the center.

The price of admission will include use of a boat, guide, tackle and bait for the competition. A tournament shirt, breakfast, lunch and dinner are also included.

A banquet and awards ceremony - featuring live music and a silent auction - will follow the competition.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Get Hooked on Hearing fishing tournament

WHEN: 8 a.m. Sept. 13

WHERE: Inn at Little Harbor, 611 Destiny Drive, Ruskin

COST: $300 per person

INFORMATION: (813) 932-1184

Reporter John Ceballos can be reached at (813) 865-1555 or jceballos@tampatrib.com.

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