On Sunday, June 13, dozens of Avalon youth were thrilled to receive a free fishing rig, provided by the generous efforts of the Friends of Pancho Villa. Yachtsman Ron Hasson, a longtime Island visitor and friend to many in Avalon, was the person spearheading the donation.
Ron has a big heart for youth throughout the Southland and was inspired to do something significant to encourage Island kids to take advantage of the fishing opportunities in their own hometown.
He, along with his grandson Ryan Slohn, brought the rigs over to the Island on his 46’ sports-fisher, Pancho Villa, where they were joined by Ron’s wife Sharon for the distribution at the LA County Government Complex. The 85 rods and reels were either brand new or fully refurbished, each with reels and line.
Each rig also came with a set of fishing instructions along with hooks, lures, sinkers and a line cutting tool. The students were very excited and appreciative and many planned to head out that afternoon to test their new equipment.
Participating in the event were Avalon Fire Captain Michael Alegria, Sheriff Captain Joseph Badali and Sheriff Sergeants Janine Hanson and Grayson Kline. Helping organize things from the Island side were Ray and Emma Peguero and Wayne Herbst.
Ron Hasson hopes that his love for fishing will find a place in the heart of many Avalon youth through these beautiful rigs.
