Historic La Conner Smelt Derby

Sponsor: The Rotary Club of La Conner Saturday, Feb. 27 Contacts: Lee Carlson, (360) 466-0127 or Sandy Stokes (360) 466-3315 History-making in 2010 The Super Bowl completed its 44th year. The Smelt Derby is even older celebrating its 45th year. Since the President had to turn down his invitation due to a prior commitment, La Conner Mayor Ramon Hayes has again agreed to stand in for him in the Politician Fishin' Exhibition. There will be live action smelt jigging duels between the mayors of surrounding towns and cities and county commissioners. Over the years the Smelt Derby has developed a fun, family day to remember. Here are the events: • Breakfast: As in years past, the Rotarians will serve up pancakes, eggs and all the trimmings at Maple Hall from 8 to 10 a.m. • Smelt Run: Work off the meal with the Skagit Symphony's USATF Certified 5K or 10K run. Or take the family fun walk around town, see the town's award-winning public art displays and maybe even glimpse one of La Conner's town turkeys. • Fishing: The Smelt Derby fishing contest is on the town docks from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kids can win cash prizes of $100 for bringing in the largest smelt. Other prizes for unusual catches from the channel. • Kid's activities: Kids will love the fishing action and the free fun at Maple Hall, the site of the famous "fish printing" where the budding artists can create a masterpiece out of a dead fish and paint. • Boat tour: Also for the youngsters, La Conner Sea Scouts will offer tours of their historic schooner, "Rejoice." • Raffle and more: Adults can spend $2 to try their luck in a raffle with over 100 fabulous prizes and a $500 cash Grand Prize. They can feed the kids and families can enjoy $2 hot dogs. Meals for $3 and $4 with a polish hot dog.