St. Edwards fish fry celebrates 25th anniversary

By Chad Koenen

Publisher

Fish fry season is upon us, and while it may look a little different this year, there is perhaps no place better to get a heaping plate full of fish and all of the sides than the St. Edwards Catholic Church Lenten Fish Fry. 

Now in its 25th year, the local Friday night fish fry not only gives residents an opportunity to fill up their stomachs, but fill some of the biggest needs in the community. Proceeds from the three fish fry’s benefit both the local community and St. Edwards Church.

Doug Trana, who is helping to organize the fish fry, said 50 percent of the money is used for projects at St. Edwards Catholic Church, while the remaining 50 percent benefits the greater Henning community. In the past, proceeds from the fish fry have provided funding for everything from the food shelf to Henning HOPE, Henning CHAT, DARE and provided funding for the food stand building.

“Whatever is needed each year. When they have projects going and we know about it,” said Trana. “Each year varies a little bit.”

Volunteers help to prepare and serve the meal each night. In years past, that meant tables lined St. Edwards church as people from across the region stopped by for all the fish they can fit in their stomachs. 

This year will be a bit different as the church is offering a take out only option due to COVID-19, but that isn’t stopping church members from pushing ahead with the time honored tradition of filling up with Alaskan walleye, potatoes, cole slaw, vegetables and dessert on Friday nights. People can call ahead and have their meals ready to go when they get to the church. 

The first fish fry will be held on Friday night from 5-7 p.m. at the church. Subsequent fish fry’s will be held on March 12 and March 26 at St. Edwards Catholic Church in Henning. 

Pre-paid tickets are available for $10 each and can be purchased at B&D Foods, First National Bank, Mid-Central Equipment and St. Edward’s Catholic Church after Sunday mass. People can also call B&D Foods at 583-2732 to reserve a meal. 

There will also be a limited number of meals that can be purchased at the door.