It’s an amazing thing when we see those that protect and serve also educate, entertain and build memories within the community.
The ever-popular Cops and Kids Fishing Derby, organized by Belleville Police, returns to Victoria Park on Saturday, August 30.
Children will have the opportunity to fish alongside Belleville Police Officers, Canadian Military Officers and more, with a free lunch for kids under 12 and the first 100 kids signing up getting a free fishing towel at the rain or shine event.
I personally love this event and others like it because it underlines two important facts that we sometimes forget in our busy lives.
The Police Officers (and members of the Canadian Military) who work in our community also live in our community and volunteer for activities like this in our community. They are much more than people doing a vital job, they are lynchpins of our recreational and social structure.
They are also human beings, which is all-too-often forgotten because of the uniforms they wear and the sometimes unpleasant or disturbing tasks that are part of their job description.
Watching a young child’s eyes light up as they enjoy a day of fishing at this event makes you realize that there are hearts behind those badges and rank insignia much larger than some on social media would have you believe.
I’m Paul Martin and that’s what I see looking Beyond the Headlines.
(PAUL MARTIN)
