Third annual Safety Day hosts 470 children

The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department and area first responders hosted Safety Day for 470 children, according to sheriff Kenny Dickerson.

He said 340 children from Byhalia K-2 and 130 from Galena attended this year.

The children were shown fire engines and other equipment and then served a meal before going back to school.

Yolanda Jones, office manger for the sheriff, summarized the activities and volunteers who made the day fun for school children by listing agencies involved:

• The entire staff of the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department helped organize and put on the event.

• Holly Springs Fire Department.

• Potts Camp Fire Department.

• Tunica County, DeSoto County and Shelby County sheriff’s departments.

• Marshall County Road and Bridge Department.

• Holly Springs Police Department.

• E-911.

• Child Protective Services.

• McCormicks Spices.

• Instabrands.

• ASICS.

• Big Dog Trucking cooking.

• USDA Forestry.

• Hot Wheels.

“We want to express our gratitude to Marshall County School District Superintendent Carrie Skelton and Sheriff Dickerson,” Jones said. “And we want to thank superintendent Dr. Irene Turnage for sending senior volunteers from the Holly Springs School District.” Others who helped included:

• Shevonne Crockette with USDA who made funnel cakes.

• Smoky The Bear, from Forestry.

• Brandi Byrd for face painting and taking pictures.

• Jordan Ash, who provided the obstacle course.

• Jannie Leullen and Tama Joe for Sno Cones.

“We had a great time,” Jones said.

Sheriff K.C. Hamp of Tunica County also thanked the community.

“Thank you so much for your continued support throughout the three years of having our annual safety day,” Hamp said.

“It was a pleasure actually meeting you in person,” Jones said. “May God continue to bless you, your family and staff and always stay safe.”

Safety Day is rotated year among the five schools — H.W. Byers, Potts Camp, Galena, Byhalia, and Holly Springs.

The event teaches safety and inspires children to choose a career in one of the many first responder agencies.