By Brian Sullivan

The newly-formed Berlin High School Fishing Club, known as Fishbones, recently teamed up with a group of high school students with special needs for a field trip to the pond at Sage Park. Two high school biology teachers, Ms. Jen Vitelli and Mr. Fred Russo, accompanied the group to discuss the significance of maintaining our bodies of water. The members of the fishing club seized the moment and partnered up with their fellow students, assisting them with their lines, bait, and casting. Overall, 18 rainbow trout were caught and returned to the water. Students were instructed on the finer points of catch and release, so that others may enjoy the same activity. Anthony Cardello was the fisherman of the day catching five rainbow trout. He was fishing with Adam Romegialli, who described his morning with Anthony as being “a great experience.” Romegialli said he was very excited for Anthony and although catching fish may not have been the primary goal initially, it turned out to be the “icing on the cake.” Club member Andrew Dwyer commented that this was one of his best fishing experiences ever.

Dwyer stated, “Just the thought of getting out of school to do something I love to do was great...but it was much more than that.” Every student on the field trip caught at least one fish.

Assistant principal Mark Benigni stated, “This was an incredible learning experience for all the students. Mr. Sullivan and the Fishbones should be credited for planning such a special morning. These are the type of activities that students remember for a lifetime. We hope to continue the special relationships that were established fishing together at Sage Park.” Staff members Amy Roberts and Wendy Falk echoed Dr. Benigni’s thoughts and commended the members of the fishing club and the spirit of cooperation that existed.