JAMES WOOD

Staff Writer

First Responders and students from middle schools across the Bedford County School District came together to spend the day fishing on Friday during this year’s Cops and Bobbers event.

The event started in 2020 after Lieutenant Ronnie Blankenship had spoken to a student who had told him that he had never learned to fish before. 

He and Bedford County Schools (BCS) then worked together on an idea to create an event for students in the fifth grade to learn and enjoy fishing with the first responders who serve the community.

“The goal is to give back through community based policing,” said Blankenship. “This is a way we can connect with our kids and community.”

Each year ten fifth graders from each middle school in the county are chosen to go fishing based on exceptional performance and growth through the school year.

Social and Emotional and Mental Health Supervisor Lindsay Wiley commented on the event and its positive impact on Bedford County’s kids and the help that has come from the community to support it.

“It’s a huge impact for our kids who haven’t been fishing before and allows them to be mentored,” Wiley said. “All of our local law enforcement, social workers, and representatives from Cooper Steel have offered to help.”

She also commented on Blankenship’s help in creating the event.

“He’s very passionate about his community and we deeply appreciate him,” she continued. “It takes a village to raise a child, and Bedford County is a great village for our kids.” 

School Superintendent Tammy Garrett shared her excitement about the event, highlighting its community-oriented vision.

“It’s more than just fishing,” she said. “I think this event shows what someone’s vision can do for the community.”

“I believe we can change the lives of kids when we work together.”