Third Annual Event Will Benefit Veterans

In 2020, when Case Baccio was a 9-year-old elementary school student, he organized the first Clear Water for Heroes Fishing Tournament, which benefits Blue Skies for the Good Guys and Gals, an event for veterans, Purple Heart warriors, and families of fallen heroes that is held in Ohio in August.

Now 11 and a student at Landis Run Intermediate School, Case is organizing his third tournament to be held at J. Edward Mack Scout Reservation (Camp Mack), 2 Scout Lane, Newmanstown, on Saturday, May 7, rain or shine. Adults and children who enjoy fishing are invited to take part. The adult open and hero tournament, for those age 16 and older, will be held from 7 to 11 a.m. The adult hero category will include participants who are Purple Heart recipients or Gold Star family members. Lunch will be provided from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The children's open and hero tournament will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Child hero category members will include children of Purple Heart recipients or members of Gold Star families. The tournament is capped at 75 fishermen per session.

"The first year my goal was to send one person to Blue Skies," said Case, who noted that amount was $4,000. After raising more than $4,000, Case set his sights on doubling that amount in 2021. The effort raised more than $10,000. Case likes to be involved in every aspect of the fundraiser. "It's a lot of fun to do," he said, adding that there is a satisfaction in knowing that he is doing good for others. One of his favorite parts of organizing the event is seeking out sponsors. "I go to companies and ask," he said, naming local sponsors, including Trop Gun Shop and Lancaster County Motors, along with national organizations such as Dick's Sporting Goods and Target. For 2022, Case has been working on a special surprise for sponsors and some participants.

Case first became interested in fundraising for Blue Skies when he and his sister, Isabella; mother, Ali Bucher; and friend Eric McCullough, visited the event. "We go every year," explained Ali of the weekend gathering that attracts about 75 veterans and family members of veterans. She added that her family has developed relationships with some attendees. This year, funds raised by the fishing tournament may be directed to someone in the area who wants to attend. "If someone knows a Purple Heart (recipient) or knows a Gold Star family they would like to nominate, we can filter that over to Blue Skies," said Ali. "Or if someone wants to just send someone, we have a sponsorship level for that." In addition, Ali noted that some of this year's funds will be distributed to local organizations that aid veterans, such as River House PA or Pennsylvania Veterans Community Outreach.

Ali noted that for 2022, organizers would like to see as many children take part as possible. Individuals who are interested in registering for the event may visit http://www.eventbrite.com and search for "3rd Annual Clear Water for Heroes." Readers who have questions may call 717-224-5923 or 910-964-8594.