Among the many families who’ve made this event a cherished tradition are Albert Kissinger and Michael Church, two dedicated members of the Kids Fishing Tournament Committee, whose stories span multiple generations of fishing memories at the Golden Era lakes.

Albert Kissinger, the Committee President, brought his son Shane to the very first tournament held at the site in 1999. Shane not only caught his first fish that day, but proudly took home a trophy he still has to this day. Fast forward to 2024—Albert’s grandson, Biagio Simioli, also caught his very first fish during this spring’s tournament.

“My favorite part is watching a kid catch their first fish—it never gets old,” said Kissinger. “I’m probably just as excited as they are!”

A proud member of the Point Seekers Bass Club, Albert organizes these events to share his love for fishing and give back to the community.

“I like to spread enjoyment and let kids experience the outdoors and the excitement fishing brings.”

Albert encourages anyone interested in volunteering—whether it’s helping at weigh stations or supporting kids at the lakeside—to contact him at N2bass1960@yahoo.com.

Another committee member, Michael Church, shares a similar legacy. Church brought his then-6-year-old son, Joshua, to fish in the tournament 25 years ago to one of the Golden Era lakes. That day, young Joshua snagged second place. Now, Church’s grandson—also named Joshua—has followed in their footsteps, continuing the family’s fishing tradition at Golden Era.

“I started fishing when I was six, thanks to my uncle,” Church shared. “Now I’m passing that on. Fishing keeps my kids away from drugs and gangs—and they love it!”

A proud father of five and grandfather to twelve, Church’s entire family enjoys fishing. Three of his grandkids, along with his daughter, brother, and wife, all joined him at this May’s event.

“I think it’s awesome that you open up your lakes for the community,” said Church, a San Jacinto native.

The next Annual Kids Fishing Tournament is already on the horizon—mark your calendars for Saturday, March 28, 2026—and get ready to cast a line and make new memories with your family.

The post Beloved Kids Fishing Tournament Reels in a Heartwarming Family Success appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

Thanks to the unwavering support of over 60 local sponsors and volunteers, the event remained entirely free for families, continuing its tradition of bringing the San Jacinto Valley together through shared joy, outdoor fun, and unforgettable memories.

Tournament Results

Age 6–10 Category:

1. 1. Kaylie Tugado
2. 2. Aiden Mounphoxay
3. 3. Isabella Grace
4. 4. Trenton Meredith
5. 5. Chevelle Schmitz
6. 6. Michael Church
7. 7. Hailey Nunez
8. 8. Margot Lobby
9. 9. Grayson Brown
10. 10. Brayden Pfadt

Age 11–15 Category:

1. 1. Alfonso Paez
2. 2. Aiden Paez
3. 3. Sean Rowe
4. 4. Allisyn Turner
5. 5. Wyatt Dudley
6. 6. Aiden Vannortwick
7. 7. Katelyn Ruiz
8. 8. Bradley Wilson
9. 9. Logan Turkmany
10. 10. London Kuehn

Kaylie Tugado also took home the award for Biggest Fish, reeling in an impressive 7-pound catch! In addition to her trophy, she received four tickets to SeaWorld, generously donated by Steve and Dr. Kristie Dimemmo.

Community Leaders and Law Enforcement Step In

The event was attended by several local dignitaries, including Mayor Jackie Peterson of Hemet, who also captured memorable moments as a photographer, and Mayor Valerie Vandever of San Jacinto, who served as Master of Ceremonies. Hemet Councilman Tom Lodge was seen assisting with fish weigh-ins at the lakeside.

Judging duties were carried out by Captain James Burton of the San Jacinto Sheriff’s Station and Captain Glen Brock of the Hemet Police Department, adding prestige and community pride to the competition.

Community Engagement and Activities

– The California Department of Fish and Wildlife provided 70 fishing rods and reels to young participants.
– Perris Valley Anglers Club and the Point Seekers Bass Club of Riverside each brought 11 members to assist the kids and offered expert guidance. The latter also had a bass boat display in front of the clubhouse.
– Boy Scout Troop 46 introduced over 150 children to BB gun safety and education through their dedicated tent — many shooting for the first time!
– A Drug-Free World booth handed out 239 educational booklets and shared real-life stories about the risks of substance use.

Food and Family Time

– Shamrock Foods kicked things off right after 7 a.m. check-in with breakfast snack bags for attendees.
– The Kiwanis Club of Hemet brought their grills and big smiles, cooking a delicious hamburger lunch for everyone after the fishing wrapped up.

Voices from the Community

 “We’ve been here every year, and my son has caught fish every time!”

“My grandson caught his first fish and hasn’t stopped talking about it!”

“We had a fantastic time. The food, the fishing — everything was perfect.”

“These events keep my grandkids away from gangs and drugs. They love it, and so do I.”

Special Thanks to the Gold Sponsors

This unforgettable event would not have been possible without the generous support of our Gold Sponsors. A heartfelt thank you to the Greater San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce, Soboba Foundation, Golden Era Productions, Shamrock Foods, SCOC Services, Steve and Dr. Kristie Dimemmo, Polly’s Pies, and Raising Cane’s. Your commitment to the children and families of this valley continues to make a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership and dedication to building a stronger community.

This day was made possible by the hardworking Fishing Tournament Committee, led by President Albert Kissinger and Vice President Michelle Meade, whose dedication, planning, and countless volunteer hours made this event a true success.

For more information contact the Greater San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce.
www.gsjvchamber.com

The post Unforgettable Joy and Community Spirit Shine at Annual Kids Fishing Tournament appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.

Kids ages 6 to 15 are invited to participate in this free, catch-and-release tournament. Check-in begins at 7:00 a.m., with the tournament kicking off promptly at 8:30 a.m. at Golden Era Golf Course, 19871 Gilman Springs Road. Although entry is free, pre-registration is required at www.gsjvchamber.com.

All registered kids will receive a free event T-shirt, a snack bag and lunch is provided for all attendees.

Medals and prizes will be awarded to the top 10 anglers in each age group. The grand prize—four tickets to SeaWorld, generously sponsored by Steve and Dr. Christie Dimemmo—goes to the young angler who lands the biggest fish of the day.

Don’t have fishing gear? No problem! The California Department of Fish and Wildlife will be on-site to loan fishing poles with valid ID.

Last year’s event saw 276 young anglers reel in a total of 178 fish, making it a memorable experience for kids and families alike.

Special thanks to the long list of generous sponsors who are making this unforgettable day possible for our community’s youth:

Soboba Foundation

Shamrock Foods

SCOC Services

Michelle Meade Realtor

Golden Era Productions

Greater San Jacinto Valley Chamber Of Commerce

Steve Dimemmo and Dr. Kristi Dimemmo

Agri Empire

Sysco

Micromobile Tire

Abid Hussain M.D.

Arnold’s Rentals

Raising Cane’s

California Department of Fish and Game

DPR Construction

Brubaker & Culton Real Estate and Development

Toliver Tax Service

Andy Dominigoni Farms

Last Chance Bait & Tackle

Valley Community Pantry

CR&R

Join us for a day of family-friendly fun, fresh air, and fishing—and inspiring the next generation of anglers.

To register and for more information go to The Greater San Jacinto Valley Chamber of Commerce website at www.gsjvchamber.com

The post Fourth Annual Free Kids Fishing Tournament Set For May 31 In San Jacinto appeared first on The Hemet & San Jacinto Chronicle.