A Reeds Spring resident who wrote a fishing book in 2020 has once again donated proceeds to a local nonprofit that helps kids with special needs and veterans enjoy fishing and scuba diving. air.
Vannetta Groeteke, a local bass fisherman and the author of “Thank You Grandpa for Taking Me Fishing,” wrote the book based on a true story about age 7-8.
“I was inspired to write the book to try to raise money for an organization that helps children and veterans with special needs enjoy outdoor activities that would otherwise be impossible,” Groeteke told Branson. Tri-Lakes News. “The memory of me helping a girl catch her first fish while on vacation with my grandparents was a life-changing event. From that moment on, I wanted to share my love of the sport with everyone. , especially women and children.
Groeteke said the book was a way for her to continue helping the organization.
“For many years I have participated in a tournament on Table Rock Lake, hosted by JP Sell, the founder of FishTales. I have seen him work tirelessly to raise awareness that so many children and veterans with special needs needed help,” Groeteke said. “Just paying my entrance fee and buying raffle tickets didn’t seem like enough. at a fishing event, I was trying to find a way to help him even more. The idea to write my book “Thank you grandpa for taking me fishing” was born. After months of research, finding an illustrator, Nikki Turvin, and publishing the book (with) Dorrance Publishing, my goal was achieved! At that point, I worked hard to sell my book to bookstores, retail stores, social media, friends and family.
Last year, Groeteke donated more than $10,000 of book sales proceeds to FishTales and this year she presented a check for $5,000.
“I will always support JP Sell in its efforts to help people. The latest attempt is to complete a park in Rogersville named Freedom Park,” Groeteke said. “It’s a park with lakes, trails, archery and shooting ranges specifically designed for children with special needs, veterans and nursing home patients. With my continued support and the support of so many others, JP’s park dream will soon become a reality. We need so much more help and money!
Groeteke sells his book directly, but it is also available on Amazon.
“I prefer people to order my book directly from me because I get a bigger discount when I order directly from the publisher, which means more profit for FishTales. One hundred percent of my profit goes to them,” Groeteke said “I can be emailed to Vgroeteke@gmail.com. However, the book can also be ordered from Amazon or the publisher at bookstore.dorrancepublishing.com. Branson locals and guests can pick up a copy in Branson at the Crystal Fish Gift Shop, Big Cedar Gift Shop, or Dogwood Canyon Gift Shop.
For more information on FishTales, visit “Fish-4-Tales” on Facebook.
