Ritchie Honored at Fishing for Freedom Tournament for Efforts to Help Veterans, Fishing

Thousand Islands Bass Tournament Helps Fort Drum USO, Carthage Area Hospital

State Senator Patty Ritchie was honored by the organizers of the Fishing for Freedom Thousand Islands Bass Tournament on Friday for her efforts to boost tourism and fishing across Northern and Central New York.

“This tournament is very special because it does more than just bring people to our region, it pays tribute to our nation’s heroes,” Senator Ritchie said. “Fort Drum and the 10th Mountain Division are a huge part of the North Country.  I want to thank the organizers and volunteers who have done so much to help these selfless defenders of our freedom.

Senator Ritchie obtained $15,000 for the Town of Alexandria to help the annual tournament, which benefits Carthage Area Hospital and the Fort Drum USO.

The Fishing for Freedom Tournament honors America’s military.  It provides opportunities for active duty military and veterans to fish with top bass anglers and experience what the St. Lawrence River and 1,000 Islands have to offer.

The annual tournament, organized with the assistance of Army Bass Anglers and Bass Champs, attracts visitors from across the country to Alexandria Bay and the North Country.

Earlier this year, Senator Ritchie obtained $150,000 to help promote fishing in St. Lawrence, Jefferson and Oswego Counties.