A recent Saturday in July brought many a smile to American veterans of recent wars and not so recent wars.
Last year a giving couple by the name of Jim and Tina Shank, already members of Central Piedmont Heroes on the Water is a non-profit that assists injured service members with their physical and mental recovery using the therapeutic qualities of fishing from kayaks.
HOW participants enjoyed kayaking and fishing on Bear Creek Lake
On that beautiful July afternoon temperatures were abnormally moderate giving the vets a great opportunity to embrace the non-profit’s motto of Paddle. Fish. Heal. The organization provided the equipment, Bear Creek Lake State Park provided the scenic setting, and the Friends provided the food. Approximately 35 happy and hungry vets and volunteers were served.
HOW participants and members of the Friends of Bear Creek Lake State Park
Bear Creek Lake State Park is about 4.5 miles northwest of the town of Cumberland. From U.S. Route 60, go west on Route 622 and south on Route 629 to the park entrance.
Drive Time: Northern Va., three hours; Richmond, one hour; Roanoke, two hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, three hours.
Click herefor a Google map. Latitude, 37.531773. Longitude, -78.271589.
Bear Creek Lake State Park, 22 Bear Creek Lake Road, Cumberland, VA 23040; Phone, (804) 492-4410; email,bearcreek. Learn more about park offerings by calling1-800-933-PARKor emailresvs.