Meraux Foundation Sponsors “Hook a Kid on Fishing Rodeo”
Donates Fishing Supplies to Area Children
The Arlene and Joseph Meraux Charitable Foundation has awarded a $5,000 donation to the Knights of Nemesis Social Club and Parade for their annual Hook a Kid on Fishing Rodeo being held Saturday, June 18. The funds donated by the Meraux Foundation are dedicated to fishing kits that are given free to children under 12. Each kit includes a fishing pole, fishing box, t-shirt, tackle, bait and other fishing items. This marks the 10th year that the Meraux Foundation has been the premier sponsor, donating $95,000 total to the event. The Knights of Nemesis Club is a non-profit organization, and all monies raised go towards charity causes in St. Bernard.
“The fishing rodeo is a worthwhile event for kids and families in St. Bernard, and we are happy that the Meraux Foundation is able to ensure that every chid who wants to participate has the fishing gear necessary,” said Rita Gue, the president of the Meraux Foundation. “We are proud to support the Knights of Nemesis so that they can leverage our contributions to have an even greater impact in the Parish.”
Robert E Showalter of the Knights of Nemesis said, “The Meraux Foundation was one of our first sponsors, and with their continued support throughout the years, we have been able to grow the event, attract dozens more sponsors, have a positive impact on more children, and raise more money that is being put to good use in the community.”
The fishing rodeo is scheduled for June 17 and 18. The entry fee is $25 for adults. Children under 12 who are entered with an Adult Entry will receive a fishing pole, tackle box, t-shirt, ditty bag, food and drink made possible by the support from the Meraux Foundation and Chalmette Refining. There will be 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes in eight categories for children. Adult prizes will be awarded to 1st and 2nd place winners in eight categories.
Registration and fishing pole distribution opens at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 18. Participants can launch boats anywhere and the weigh-in will be at Campo’s Marina parking lot in Shell Beach on Saturday, June 18 between noon and 3 p.m.
Included in the ticket price is a t-shirt, food, and drinks. Sponsorships for this event are currently being solicited. For information call Danny Fernandez at 504-322-5526. Tickets can be picked up at: Picou-Fradella, 8331 Lafitte Ct. in Chalmette and Campo’s Marina in Shell Beach.
About the Arlene and Joseph Meraux Charitable Foundation
The Meraux Foundation is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established by Arlene Meraux to benefit the community of St. Bernard Parish by leveraging its landholdings. Today, the Foundation’s board of directors is presided over by Arlene’s niece, Rita Gue, and members Floyd Gue, Bill Haines, Chris Haines, and Sidney Torres, III. Guided by Arlene’s vision, the Board is implementing an innovative strategy to create lasting change and build a better St. Bernard.
