The Agape Multicultural Ecumenical Network, or A.M.E.N., and the Hot Springs Branch of the NAACP, Unit No. 6013, hosted their Second Annual Fishing Derby at Family Park on Saturday, May 7.
"Beautiful and sunny, it served as a great kickoff to Mother's Day weekend," a news release said.
"Teamwork made this a successful event," Marsalis Weatherspoon, who currently presides over both organizations, said in the release.
The Rev Fred Nicholson, pastor of Immanuel Christian Fellowship Church, spearheaded organizing the event. Hot Springs NAACP branch member and 2022 Service Award recipient Nathan Hough manned the grill. NAACP Immediate Past President Linda Franklin provided logistical support, purchasing food and supplies, and assisting with setup and cleanup.
Hot Springs Police Chief Chris Chapmond and the Hot Springs Police Department "could be found dropping some reels and fixing plates. Even K-9 unit member Patriot made himself available for cuddles," the release said.
Clint Coleman of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission served as D.J., awarding prizes along the way, including fishing equipment. The commission stocked the pond for the event as well as provided on-site fishing license registration and renewal.
A.M.E.N. is a consortium of minority pastors, ministers and other faith leaders "organized to address the needs of our community through prayer, outreach and other programs," the release said. "Ministers banded together to form A.M.E.N. in the wake of violence that scourged the city of Hot Springs summer 2019. Through awareness and prevention programs, we hope to empower our churches to confront the issues of violence, suicide, and homelessness, promote education, mental health, and wellness, advocate for women, children, and the less fortunate."
The mission of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People is to "secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons."
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission stocked the pond for the event as well as provided on-site fishing license registration and renewal. - Submitted photo
Hot Springs Police Chief Chris Chapmond, center, with tongs, helped serve food at the event. - Submitted photo