Something Fishy With Stoneham Police

The Stoneham Police Department’s 18th Annual Fishing Derby brought many families to Spot Pond for a day of fun activities outdoors, said Chief James McIntyre.

The Stoneham Police Department’s Community Policing Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Massachusetts Anglers Education Program and the American Legion Post 115 hosted the event on June 24.

From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., attendees could learn how to fish for free in a non-competitive atmosphere. Equipment and bait were provided to those without their own supplies.

Through the generosity of local businesses, children taking part in the derby received a free t-shirt, barbecue lunch, beverages and raffle prizes.

Despite the early morning rain, there were nearly 400 people participating in the event with more than 200 children receiving t-shirts and prizes. The artwork featured on this year's t-shirt was drawn by Terrence Moynihan, an eighth grade student at Stoneham Central Middle School.

“I would like to thank Officer Ken Bowdidge for coordinating this year’s Fishing Derby and all the officers who helped make this event a success,” Chief McIntyre said. “We were happy to see that the rain did not keep families away from this great event.”

Chief McIntyre also thanked the sponsors whose generosity made the event a great success: StonehamBank, Stop and Shop Supermarket, Salem Five Bank, American Legion Post 115, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Electrical Associates, LLC, Honey Dew Donuts, Rapid Liquors, New England Spring Water, Coca-Cola, Piantedosi Baking Company, Kayem Foods and Pepsi.

Photos courtesy Stoneham Police Department.

Nicholas Apalakis catches a fish at the Stoneham Police Department's 18th Annual Fishing Derby; Left to right: Liam Cabezas, age 7, and James Cabezas, age 4; Members of the Stoneham Police Department with Terrence Moynihan.