Changing lives on the water

Tim Schmid of Park Rapids had a vision six years ago to change one life at a time.

"May not be able to change the world, but we can make a difference in our community, touching one life at a time," Schmid says.

That vision became reality when he founded Walking on Water with the first Minnesota Adult Teen Challenge event.

This year's Minnesota Adult Teen Challenge was held Saturday when approximately 50 fishing guides and individuals recovering from drug and alcohol addiction converged on Heartland Park and Fish Hook Lake for a day of fishing, fellowship and food.

Schmid, who himself suffered from drug and alcohol addiction, organizes the event every year.

Jason Durham, an area fishing guide, donates every year to this event. He had this to say: "This is so important because of the addictions to drug and alcohol these individuals face. That addiction can ruin lives forever. My hope is to tunnel the power of addiction into a positive activity, like fishing."

Saturday's event began with food and fellowship in Heartland Park. Three individuals shared powerful, faith-based testimonies and their personal struggles with alcohol and drug addiction, and the poor choices they made. Some ended up in prison, lost almost everything and neglected loved ones, family and friends.

They recovered, but not without challenges.

Facing the challenges of the day-to-day struggles to stay sober, they focused on the realization that a life on drugs and alcohol will not work. A life on the other side of addiction could never be achieved without hope which was restored with a strong faith-based foundation for a fruitful life and the support from family and friends.

Up to three participants boarded a guide boat for an afternoon of fishing. Fish caught soon appear on Schmid's cell phone. A boat guided by Will Wicks was full of smiles. Wicks said a 26-inch walleye was caught by one of those in his boat. While trying to record the moment, the fish was accidently released back into the water before a photo was taken.

Schmid laughed. "That is ok, the fish still counts. It is all about having fun."

Concluding the event, some prizes were awarded to the largest by species of fish or the guide that drove the farthest. Sponsors were generous and there was no shortage of prizes.

Guides traveled with their boats from as far as Fargo, Detroit Lakes, Granite Falls and Ely.

Schmid stated he was very appreciative of the guides for the gift of their time, equipment and expertise for the afternoon.

Numerous local businesses and individuals made contributions to help sponsor the event.