Fishing For Memories Rodeo about to be in full swing, benefits Alzheimer’s research

INTRACOASTAL CITY — The next dollar raised could be the one that helps find a cure for Alzheimer’s.
This weekend will likely bring in thousands of dollars for the cause, all while people have fun.
The seventh Fishing For Memories Rodeo is set to take place through Sunday in Intracoastal City. The event officially began at 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, when anglers could begin casting.
“We are looking forward to another great year,” Event Organizer Holly Boffy said.
If recent trends continue, that will certainly be the case. The rodeo drew 565 anglers in 2013 and 576 in ‘14. That is on top of so many more who attend to listen to live music, take part in the auction and watch each contestant weigh in his or her catch.
“I need to find someone who is good at estimating crowds,” Boffy joked. “We end up with huge crowds on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. We don’t charge to get in, so we have never had a number.
“It brings a lot of people.”
And a lot of funds raised. During its first six years, the Fishing For Memories Rodeo has raised $220,000 for Alzheimer’s research. Organizers donated more than $50,000 to the Alzheimer’s Association last year.
“We give all of our proceeds to Alzheimer’s research,” Boffy said. “That’s our goal and that’s what it is all about. We also like people to have fun. I think having a fun event for the community is important. We want people to come out and enjoy the music. We want the kids to have fun with children’s activities.
“We always want this to be something that is a great event for the community.”
Arguably the greatest part of the event will begin today at 5 p.m. when the scales open.
“Friday is a really exciting time,” Boffy said. “You start with a clear (leader) board. Almost everyone who weighs in on Friday gets their name on the leader board. You spend the weekend watching people get bumped. You might be the leader on Friday, then a few boats come in and you get bumped off the board.
“It’s fun to watch.”