North Bend to host kids fishing event
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CAIRO -- Young fishing enthusiasts will be able to put their skills to the test at the 24th annual Gary Hissem Memorial Fishing with Friends event on Sunday at the North Bend State Park pond area.
The free event at 1 p.m. is sponsored by the Ritchie County Deputy Sheriff's Association. Participants will be able to compete for four events: biggest fish, smallest fish, the most fish and the most accurate cast. Winners will receive a trophy.
Gary Hissem, former lieutenant, founded the event. Since his passing, the Ritchie County Deputy Sheriff's Association decided to move forward with the event and turn it into a memorial for Hissem.
Maj. Bryan Davis, a longtime participant, has seen the event grow through the years. With last year's numbers reaching 96, they are hoping the event will continue to grow.
"We'd like to have as many kids as we can. (We) try to build a rapport with them in a short amount of time," Davis said.
A wide variety of prizes will be given to the kids. With registration, the kids will receive a T-shirt, tackle box and night crawlers. Among other items, bicycles and helmets will be available to win through a drawing.
Some of the bicycles were provided by members of the community, Davis said. "There's a good chance that 60 percent (of the kids) will get a bicycle," he said.
For the past six months, the Ritchie County Deputy Sheriff's Association has been accepting donations and taking part in events to raise money. On Aug. 23, the Pizza House in Harrisville hosted a "tip night" to help raise money to purchase bicycles for the giveaway.
According to the association's Facebook page, the "goal was far exceeded."
"There's a lot of people to thank," Davis said. "A lot of people contributed anywhere from $20-$100."
North Bend State Park provides its facilities free of charge to the association for the event. Park Superintendent Steve Jones said "we're all on the same team."
The event is to "get the young people to understand that the police aren't bad people and they're there to take care of people," Jones said.
Hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks will be provided to participants and family members. Registration begins at noon and the tournament starts at 1 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing pole and gear.