To the Editor:

The Town of Massena has just hosted their fourth tournament of the 2022 Angling Season and we are mindful of the dedication and commitment that is required to realize a successful outcome to these events. Having completed the Toyota Series on September 24, 2022, we were extremely lucky to be able to draw on the volunteers who selflessly provided service to our town once again. Over the course of the three-day event (September 22-24, 2022), we realized the support of people without whom this effort would not be possible. We would like to recognize the following folks:

Massena Fire Department members Tom Miller, Corey Snyder, Josh Miller, Carlos Holcomb, Jim Debien, Heath Spencer and Louisville Fire Department members John Sheets and Mike Vierno for their assistance with traffic control and parking of 150 vehicles and 150 trailers for both the professional anglers and their team members. Others who assisted with traffic control included Don Meissner, Julie Kelley Ferro, and Linda McQuinn.

Security detail was provided by Josh Miller and Hunter Williams.

Volunteers who assisted with golf cart duties for both anglers and co-anglers included Tracy Miller, Sue Kearns, Tim Kearns, and Alex Krywanczyk.

Special assistance with the administration of the angler survey as part of our pending Economic Impact Study goes to Jane Mouthrop and Julie Kelley Ferro who helped gather data from our visitors.

The town is grateful to the New York Power Authority who so generously provides for our needs with the availability of the Massena Intake, without which none of this tournament promotion would be possible.

The visiting anglers tell us that Massena is a great place because of our volunteers who help them have a special experience. We must mention that the anglers who come north to visit us and compete in these tournaments tell a story that many among our midst have not heard recently – that Massena and our people are so kind and helpful that they cannot wait to come back to the North Country next year to enjoy the splendor that we take for granted.

And so, Massena, we thank all of you for showing hospitality, kindness, and the generosity of spirit that sets Massena apart from the rest of the country. We couldn’t do this without You!

Sue Bellor
Massena Town Supervisor