"Touch a Fire Truck" - Magic Words for Kids

When I was a boy I loved fire trucks.  I figured all kids liked fire trucks.  Didn't you?  I remember, through the years, how many kids received a toy fire truck on Christmas or a birthday. But it wasn't just fire trucks that captured the young minds of kids, awakening them to fantasies and unimaginable possibilities.  I think I was five years old on a Christmas morning when I received my first, (then, state-of-the-art), Buck Rogers Rocket Ship. Wish I could remember the journeys into space and things I imagined playing with that little toy. 

Growing up, of course, we learned that we had to make way for fire trucks, ambulances and police chase vehicles because their mission was always a vital matter where every moment counted in the protection of life and property. Their loud blaring horns and wailing sirens alert us that brave rescuers are on their way to fight danger.

Next Saturday, May 18, 2013 from 10 am to 3 pm, we have an exciting opportunity for kids of all ages to attend the 11th Annual "Touch-A-Truck" event which will take place in the parking area behind the Derynoski Elementary School, entrance off of Eden Avenue. (Rain Date: Sunday, May 19th).

Not only will there be fire trucks to inspect, but an array of vehicles and equipment such as, military trucks, an Army helicopter, rescue vehicles, fire engines, police vehicles, an animal control car, school bus, operation life saver, (railroad crossing), cement mixer, motorcycles, garbage truck, mail truck, tree truck, Channel 8 mobile weather station vehicle and many more!  

To enliven the ambiance, there'll be music, colorful characters roaming through the crowds,  face painting, free items offered to kids and raffle prizes.  Food and drink will be available.

“Come for an hour or two or better still, spend the day!”, says Auxiliary volunteer Sherri Valentin, “and enjoy this eye-filling display for only $3.00 per child. Kids under 2 are free and $1.00 for adults. 

Sponsoring the event are the American Legion Auxiliary, Kiltonic Post 72 and Southington's Park and Recreation Department. 

The entire proceeds will go to help fund Children and Youth programs in our community.  

It promises to be a wonder-filled family day where children will be permitted to climb on dozens of intriguing vehicles to explore, pretend and dream. I'll be there enjoying the carnival of sights, sounds and looks on the children's faces. See you there.