February 13, 2026 — The Aurora Volunteer Fire Department Inc. is inviting the community to take part in its annual fishing derby, scheduled for February 14, 2026, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center in the town of Great Pond. The event serves as both a day of winter recreation and an important fundraiser to support the department’s efforts in keeping local communities safe. Organizers note that even those who do not plan to fish are encouraged to attend and enjoy a hot lunch featuring hot dogs, chili, baked beans, hot drinks, cookies, and other homemade sweets. Following the derby, a raffle drawing will take place after 4 p.m., featuring a wide range of prizes generously donated by local businesses. Among the items are free pizza coupons from Pats Pizza in Ellsworth, gift certificates from Airline Brewing Company in Amherst, Cabela’s gift cards donated by Joe Alves, a Makita drill and grinder from Viking Lumber in memory of Marie Robbins, a spray-in bed liner from Darling’s Undercoating valued at $695, gift cards and apparel from local farms and businesses, alpaca socks from Peruvian Link, a K-Drill Ice Auger from Hammond Lumber, and numerous other prizes. The department expressed its gratitude to the many area businesses whose contributions help strengthen community safety and support the work of local volunteers.