By DON FLETCHER
News Staff Writer
While the families of students preparing for the upcoming school term can receive free supplies, uniforms and a week’s worth of groceries at one location this Saturday (see story in Back-to-School section), the youngsters themselves can enjoy a last summer fling before the start of classes.
Atmore police and firefighters, as well as Escambia County Sheriff Heath Jackson and District 3 City Councilwoman Eunice Johnson, will present Atmore Community Fun Day, a three-hour event (from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m.) during which students are encouraged to just enjoy themselves.
While the accent is on fun, there is also an underlying reason for the event.
“Basically, it’s an opportunity for children to meet and interact with police officers, firemen and sheriff’s deputies in a different setting,” explained Police Chief Chuck Brooks. “Our number-one objective is to meet the children and provide a public service to show them they don’t have to fear the police. We want them to see us in a different light.”
The fun day will be held on Patterson Street, in the vacant area across from Patterson Street Apartments. A portion of Patterson Street will be closed during the event.
Youngsters of all ages will be able to jump on inflatable “bouncers,” play basketball games and more. They and their chaperones will enjoy free hot dogs, popcorn, snow cones and cold drinks. Music will be provided, and prizes will be given away during the event.
Organizers hope the students and adults will observe social distancing to help stave off a recent upswing in the number of COVID-19 cases.
“We’ll be a little cautious because we’ve had a recent spike in COVID cases,” Brooks said. “We want everybody there to spread out as much as possible. And, if you don’t feel well, stay home.”