Local 138 member and 57th annual Small Fry Fishing Contest chairman
John Flanagan and his six-year-old son Braeden show of their catch of
the day.
The Local gives out prizes to the top three fishermen in each
age category, as well as Biggest Trout of the Day and Most Trout
of the Day awards. Winners walk away with a trophy, a tackle
box and a fishing pole, and the grand-prize winners receive all
three prizes plus a fishing vest and a brand new bicycle – just in
time for summer bike-riding.
“We want to make contact with the children so they see us
not just as police officers, but people,” acknowledged Flanagan.
“Sometimes they get intimated by the uniform and with this
event, they get a chance to see us in a different light. We go out
and walk around, help them bait a hook and go fishing. It’s a lot
of fun.”
In between fishing, Local 138 members help cook hotdogs
and hamburgers and serve snacks to the attendees while children listen for their names to be called to win a door prize, so
every child goes home with a contest souvenir.
The day is truly a family affair for everyone involved.
“Since I started running this (event), both my boys have come
with me,” stated Flanagan, who has been running the event for
the last seven years. “They love it and we have such a good time.”
The second day closes with an adult fishing contest that raises money to sustain the event for years to come.
“It’s nice to see that we have so many different members and
police officer families that still have that drive and passion to
give back and improve the community,” emphasized Flanagan.
“It’s heartwarming to see everyone come together year after
year.” d
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