An opportunity to meet area first responders

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

On Tuesday evening, Linden celebrated National Night Out with food and fun for all ages. It was a chance for communities, family, friends, and neighbors to come together and get to know their local first responders. Which is exactly why National Night Out was started thirty-six years ago.

National Night Out was started in 1984 as a way for communities to come together, get to know their local first responders and law enforcement, learn a lot about safety within their homes and neighborhoods, and have some fun while doing it. Kids and adults alike are all encouraged to participate in the many activities designed to not only teach about safety but also encourage participation in their local communities.

Fire departments from all across Cass County were in attendance, including Linden Volunteer Fire Department. The firefighters were keen to show kids of all ages the working of the trucks on display and even let them try on their bunker gear. Kids got the chance to hop inside and sit behind the wheel as well, getting to use the siren. Firefighters also gave out goodie bags to kids filled with toys, stickers, and activity books geared to learning about fire safety in and around the home. Local police and state troopers were there as well to talk to kids about safety.

Flight For Life made a grand entrance, landing in the parking lot of the Cass County Law Enforcement and Justice Center to the delight of everyone in attendance. The crew gave kids the chance to sit in the helicopter and answered questions about their job and the helicopter.

Also, there was Smokey the Bear, taking pictures with kids and reminding people that only they can prevent forest fires.

Kids were also able to play in a giant castle bounce house, complete with slide and play games. One game, in particular, was enjoyed by not only kids but adults as well. The goal of the game was to allow people to experience what it is like to drive while intoxicated, without any actual danger. Participants were spun in a circle several times, then had thick goggles placed over their eyes. They were then helped on a quadricycle and asked to navigate through a small obstacle course.

One booth outside garnered much attention as it was manned by a group of bikers. The Bikers Against Child Abuse were in attendance handing out information to parents and fun informational items to children.

The group is nationally and internationally known for rallying around kids who are victims of abuse, especially during court hearings.

Inside visitors were able to cool off and browse many informational booths. A fingerprint booth was available for parents to have their kids fingerprinted, Linden Area Chamber of Commerce was on hand for visitors to sign up for a chance to win a beautiful quilt, with the winner being announced on the day of the Christmas tree lighting. Other booths included the local Lions Club, Texas A&M Forest Service, and Christus St Michael Hospital in Atlanta.

Once attendees had made their rounds to all the booths, they were treated to ice cold drinks, chips, and hot dogs.

The event this year garnered an amazing turnout and everyone thoroughly enjoyed learning about the ins and outs of first responders, learning about various topics, and getting to know those who serve their local communities.