Essay Contest Winners Become 'Fishermen for a Day'

Winners of the “Fisherman for a Day” Essay Contest were rewarded for their efforts with a day out on the waters aboard the James Joseph II.

Students, ages 7-13, submitted an essay to Councilwoman Susan A. Berland’s essay contest. They had to explain why they would want to spend the day out on the water and why it’s important to protect the fish and the habitat.

Winners, who were chosen based on their best-written essay, spent Tuesday learning the art of fishing aboard the fishing charter boat.

“It was a great day for all involved and a wonderful opportunity for the students to learn about fishing, conservation and the importance of maintaining our beautiful waterways,” Berland said. “For some, it was their first time on a boat and their first time fishing. For our more seasoned fishermen, they were looking forward to a beautiful day to catch fish. Hopefully this experience will lead to their lifelong love of the water.”

The students were able to pick up tips from Capt. Joseph LoCasio and crew, Jim Howard of the Suffolk County Senior Citizens Fishing Club and John Schoenig, Victor Crone and Bob Matthews from the Imperial Sportsmen Club of Long Island.

Interviews with the essay contest winners will appear on the Town of Huntington’s television channel.

Essay winners were also treated to a pizza lunch courtesy of Mark Salese of Almarco Italian Grill.

Photo: Councilwoman Susan A. Berland joins winners of the Fisherman for a Day contest prior to boarding the James Joseph II for a day’s outing.

Image courtesy of Councilwoman Susan A. Berland