The 11th annual Five-O Cookout brought Wooster residents and local first responders together Aug. 15 for an afternoon focused on community connections, family activities and informal conversations with law enforcement.
The event was hosted at Bowman Beverage and continued a tradition started by Bret Defibaugh, according to a community announcement. Corbett Coots now helps carry on the gathering, which has become a recurring community event in Wooster.
Residents had the opportunity to meet officers and first responders outside emergency situations, ask questions and interact with public safety agencies in a relaxed setting.
Families attending the cookout enjoyed a variety of activities, including a bounce house, face painting and opportunities to tour a fire truck and ambulance. A race car was also on display. Free hot dogs, chips and ice cream novelties were available throughout the event.
Community Resource Officer Donald Hall said the annual gathering helps strengthen relationships between residents and law enforcement.
"This event brings our community together, allowing residents to see officers in a positive light," Hall said. "Behind every badge is a person, and behind every police department is a community. The Five-O Cookout brings both together, building trust and positive relationships. This annual event is one the police department looks forward to each year."
The cookout was supported by several local organizations and businesses that helped make the event possible, including: Bowman Beverage; Wooster Police Department; Wayne County Sheriff's Office; Ohio State Highway Patrol; Wooster Fire Department; Wooster Citizen's Police Academy; Certified Angus Beef; and Frito-Lay.
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This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Families connect with Wooster first responders at Five-O Cookout