More than 100 people attended the 14th annual Things That Go event on Saturday, Sept. 19, at William C. Haggard City Park in Herculaneum.
The event, which was hosted by Parents as Teachers, the Herculaneum Fire Department and the city of Herculaneum, gave kids the opportunity to interact with emergency personnel and vehicles, such as police vehicles, fire trucks and ambulances, in a non-emergency situation.
The free event introduced some new activities this year including a dirt pile with mini-Tonka truck from Brockmiller Construction and the Be Your Own Barista truck on hand selling beverages.
Abby Carpenter, director of Parents as Teachers serving Festus, Crystal City, Dunklin and Jefferson R-7, said the event went amazingly.
“A lot of people enjoyed the activities that we had under the pavilion, and the dirt pile from Brockmiller Construction was a new activity that seemed to be a hit with all the kids and families,” she said.
Carpenter said this was her first year planning the event for the community.
“It gives kids a hands-on experience with their community helpers and lets them know what to expect in case of an emergency,” Carpenter said.
She said an attendee told her this is their favorite Things That Go event they have attended.
“I could not have done it without my amazing staff,” she said.
Next year, Carpenter said they are looking to incorporate the event into the Halloween season.
“We are looking for an October date next year, and we are looking to make it a touch a truck or treat, so somewhat of a trunk or treat situation,” she said.
