ValleyBiz Story |
The local Lions Clubs are getting ready to host the 15th Annual Billy Beal Classic Ice Fishing Derby which is set to take place at Whitefish Lake on Saturday, March 17, 2012 from 12 Noon to 3:00 pm.
Proceeds Benefit Swan Valley Residents
For those who like to fish, spending the day with family and friends and the chance of winning $10,000 is reason enough to attend the Billy Beal Classic Ice Fishing Derby. Add to that the fact that all proceeds from the event go to the Swan Valley Lions Medical Assistance Fund and you have an event that truly gives back to the community.
All money raised for the Swan Valley Lions Medical Assistance Fund stays in the Valley, helping cover medical costs of friends and neighbors in need. To date over $118,000 has been paid out of the fund to help 124 Swan Valley residents.
The Billy Beal Classic is made possible through the joint efforts of the Bowsman, Swan River and Minitonas Lions Clubs. Each year one club takes on the responsibility for coordinating the event, but it is the cooperation of all 3 clubs that makes the event a success.
On the day of the derby, Lions members and other volunteers make the final preparations for the event, including the drilling of 1,000 holes. A concession and licensed bar are also set up on site, allowing participants to warm up from the inside out throughout the day.
The entrance fee is $40 for adults, $30 for under 16. Tickets are available from Minitonas, Bowsman and Swan River Lions Members, or on the ice.
The Name Behind the Derby
Billy Beal gained recognition earlier this year through the multiple award winning feature film Billy which was based on Beal’s life in the Swan Valley from 1906 to 1955. Actively contributing to the community, Beal served as a School Board Trustee and Sunday School Treasurer, helped set up the first library in Swan River and started a literary society. With the proceeds of the Billy Beal Classic going to meet the medical needs of the community, it is interesting to note that Beal was also interested in medicine and even helped local doctors administer vaccinations.
The added interest in Billy Beal’s story is likely to result in some additional attention for the Derby this year. There is even talk that Ernesto Griffith, Billy actor, writer, producer and director may attend this year’s Billy Beal Classic Ice Fishing Derby as part of a documentary he is currently working on which explores the life of Billy Beal in the Valley.