Lunch pays tribute to first responders
On Thursday, a public safety appreciation lunch was held at the Emergency Ambulance Service Inc. (EASI) at 514 W. Fifth Ave. in Pine Bluff to honor local first responders and their families. This event was organized by EASI with the support and collaboration of various community partners like Fosters Towing and Midtown Auto and Tire.
The event aimed to express gratitude and recognition to the men and women who serve and protect their community.
More than 100 first responders — including police officers, firefighters, paramedics and EMTs — were in attendance at the luncheon. The event treated them to a hearty meal, lively music and door prizes.
The gathering also extended invitations to several local dignitaries, including elected officials, the police chief, and the fire chief.
“We’ve been doing this event since 2016,” said Josh Bishop, chief executive officer of EASI. “It’s developed over the years to show appreciation to the different law enforcement agencies here in the county and the other counties that we serve.”
Bishop expressed his gratitude for the first responders, whom he hailed as true heroes for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the citizens’ well-being. He stated that this token of appreciation was a humble gesture of recognition for their acts of courage and dedication.
“All public safety agencies these days run into the same issues when it comes to money and staffing,” said Bishop. “We all work together every single day, take care of each other and it’s important to bring light to the community and promote camaraderie between the different organizations.”
Nyeshia Aldridge, the director of public outreach for EASI, also expressed gratitude for the first responders’ hard work and dedication, praising their service.
“This event is very important because I don’t think people truly know the extent that a lot
of our first responders go to and the things that they see day to day,” she said. “This is just a small way to say thank you for your service — because they don’t have to do it. They’re up when we’re asleep in our beds resting. These people are out risking their lives to keep us safe.”
At the community event, attendees dug in to pulled pork sandwiches served with an array of toppings, sides, and desserts by Helping Hands For The Community. Joe Spadone and his team made the sandwiches possible, while Pine Bluff Downtown Development also made a significant contribution. Jefferson Regional Medical Center had vendors present at the event, adding to the festivities.
“When I was calling people to help volunteer for this event everyone said yes,” said Aldridge. “It’s a beautiful thing to see that everyone can come together and demonstrate unity in our community.”
With smiling faces lining up, a generous serving of food was received.
The first responders, who were on duty and present at the luncheon, expressed their gratitude for the recognition and support they received. One officer, while en route to a table to enjoy his lunch, said, “It’s heartwarming to know that the community appreciates our efforts.”
Many first responders, due to their ongoing duty commitments, took their lunch to go.
“The public safety appreciation lunch was a wonderful way to show our gratitude to the first responders who serve our community,” said Aldridge, who said she is looking forward to future events. “They are truly heroes and we are grateful to have them serve in our community.”