Next up, after a two-year hiatus, the North Carolina Lions Visually Impaired Persons (VIP) Fishing Tournament returns to Jennette’s Pier Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 18-19.

With its mantra of “Grab a Pole and Change a Life,” this event brings scores of VIPs to the Pier Tuesday for bottom fishing, food and friendship. A smaller, international event occurs on Wednesday.

There’s nothing quite like sharing a smile with these folks when a tug on their line stirs their senses and gets them laughing! Volunteers surround the VIPs and help them with bait and fish.

“Many of the Lions look forward to catching up with their VIP friends year after year and even stay in touch throughout the year,” according to Gwen White, event executive director.

Her son Owen White will head up activities at Jennette’s Pier. White’s husband Rhett retired from the NC Aquariums after a long stretch as division director.