The annual Duck Derby to benefit the Otselic Valley Fishing & Heritage Association (O V F H A) and the Otselic Valley F F A has been run, and we have three winners! Thanks to a new collaboration between OV’s FFA chapter and the OVFHA, the number of derby ducks sponsored by participants doubled in 2021. After cash prizes are distributed, the balance will be shared between the OVFHA and FFA to benefit their respective programs. “The whole idea behind student involvement was increasing collaboration between the school and community,” said Duck Derby Chairperson Sadie Allen. “That’s why we are especially grateful for all participants who sponsored ducks. Students are learning more about community service, and we hope this collaboration will continue in the future, and grow! Wouldn’t it be awesome to see a dump truck full of ducks in next year’s derby?” FFA Advisor and Ag Teacher Alison Parrott worked with students on duck derby preparation, then they helped Mrs. Allen with the big float-and-catch, including video. Buckets of bright yellow numbered rubber ducks was set afloat down the creek that runs under the bridge in the middle of town. Students monitored the creek bed to free any ducks stuck in rocks and branches. Mrs. Allen and student helpers waited by the collection location with nets and buckets, and the first three ducks arriving at the derby’s end were set apart. The rest were carefully retrieved so they can be stored safely till next year. So, whose ducks are the winners? You will have to wait till Saturday, May 15 beginning at 9 am to learn winners’ names and see a video, courtesy of OV FFA, of the derby on the virtual event’s website. Visit www.ovfish.org to enjoy a full slate of programming for the 12th annual Fishing & Heritage Day 2021, including the premier of “My Dear Chester,” an original play about Grace Brown performed by OV Senior Morgan Smith. (Click here to see pictures on a public Facebook photo album.)
Duck Derby on Deck
May 4, 2021