Webster Parish’s first responders and law enforcement will be honored with a fun evening and a chance for the public to meet their public servants on Sept. 11.
At 4:30 p.m., at the Minden Recreation Complex, the third annual First Responder Appreciation Event, presented by Town and Country Health and Rehab and sponsored by the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce, will be at the soccer fields with several activities on hand for the whole family.
President and CEO Stephanie Barnette said the event is about bringing together businesses and community residents to show their support for those who keep them safe.
“We wanted to open this event up to the community because we feel it is important for the public to have an opportunity to show their appreciation for those who risk their lives in the line of duty each day,” she said. “The definition of a first responder is someone who runs toward the danger, not away from it. Very often, public interaction with first responders happens at a time of distress, and only during an emergency or crisis. It is crucial that our community supports events like these that promote positive interactions. We want to recognize not only the first responders, but their families as well. The spouses and the children need to know that their sacrifice does not go unnoticed.”
The chamber has invited all local EMS, police, fire, wildlife and fisheries, probation and parole and state agencies. The night includes emergency vehicles to explore including a helicopter, carnival games, face painting, vendor booths, bounce houses, music, food and drinks and more. Minden Police Officer Clint Smith and his K-9 partner, Harley, will also be on hand for a demonstration.
To end the evening, Licensed Pyrotechnic, Minden Fire Captain Brent Hunt, Bistineau Blasters Fireworks will provide a fireworks show at dusk. The event is free.
Sponsors to date are Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Minden, Minden Medical Center, Minden’s Finest Storage, Wimberly Agency, Minden Farm and Garden, Gibsland Bank and Trust, Savannah Court of Minden and Catherine Hunt, a realtor with Lindsey Realty, MBL Bank and Living Word of Minden.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, Barnette said. Those interested can contact the chamber office at 318-377-4240. The chamber office is located at 110 Sibley Rd.