by Janice Limbaugh
Thank you. It’s not said enough by area businesses to Wyoming Police Officers and Firefighters according to Steve Sturnim, owner of Steve’s Antique Auto Repair on Farragut SW. That’s why the idea came to him to organize the first City of Wyoming Police Officer and Firefighter Appreciation Day held at his shop.
Sturnim’s intention was to recruit as many Wyoming business owners as possible to stop by and meet the police officers and firefighters who serve them on a daily basis. It was also an opportunity to learn what they can do for area businesses and businesses can do for them. At least 50 people attended the first annual event held last Saturday afternoon
“We’re extremely happy with the turnout of police officers and firefighters,” says Sturnim. “They were our primary focus of appreciation and it was good to see them enjoy it.”
The open house event offered the officers and firefighters food, refreshments, and free back and neck massages. In return, the two departments brought equipment and held demonstrations for the businesses attending.
“This is so unique for businesses to thank their police and fire fighters,” says restaurant owner Tommy Bran. “We should do this for them once a week – we don’t show enough appreciation to our police and firefighters.”
Wyoming Director of Police and Fire Services James Carmody spoke on behalf of the officers there with gratitude for the event. “It’s thanks to community businesses like yours that make Wyoming a great city to serve. We’re community – Police are the people and the people are the police,” Chief Carmody says.
In addition to serving food and giving massages, the afternoon raised over $1000 toward the purchase of the fire department’s new water rescue equipment. The cost is estimated around $12,000. If you’d like to show your appreciation for Wyoming’s Police and Fire Fighters, consider making a contribution at the Wyoming City Hall.
