For Immediate Release

Monday, June 17, 2019

Contact: Jessica Sacco
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: jessica@jgpr.net

Stoneham Police Host 20th Annual Fishing Derby at Spot Pond

STONEHAM — Residents of all ages came together at Spot Pond this month to enjoy the Stoneham Police Department’s 20th annual Fishing Derby.

Each year, the Stoneham Police Department’s Community Policing Unit, in collaboration with the Department of Conservation and Recreation and Massachusetts Anglers Education Program hosts the event for community members.

To commemorate the 20th anniversary, Stoneham Police added several activities to the June 8 event, which brought hundreds of community members together. On top of learning how to fish for free, attendees could also play skee-ball, try their hand at throwing a softball at a dunk tank and enjoy a barbecue lunch.

As part of the annual tradition, each child who participated in the derby received a free t-shirt, which Central Middle School fifth grade student Grace Newborn designed. The illustration featured a fish underwater exclaiming “go fish!” All kids were also entered into a raffle to receive a fishing rod and tackle box.

“As in years past, the Fishing Derby was a great success and we were thrilled to see so many residents come out for the event,” Chief James McIntyre said. “I want to commend Officer Kenneth Bowdidge for taking the lead on this event and bringing out some new activities for the kids to enjoy. We’re already looking forward to next year.”

The Stoneham Fire Department also used the Fishing Derby as an opportunity to launch their boat into Spot Pond, which is ready to provide assistance if needed.

The event wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of the following vendors:

Stop & Shop Supermarket, Stoneham, Piantedosi Baking Company, The Coca-Cola Company, Pepsi, Kayem Foods, Hood Ice Cream, J&B Butcher, Stoneham, CAP Electric, Stoneham Ford and Stoneham Towing.

Chief McIntyre would like to extend a special thanks to Chief Brian Kyes for allowing the Stoneham Police Department to borrow the Chelsea Police Department’s “Copsicle 1” ice cream truck, which was a popular stop for all attendees.

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