The Lakeside by the Sea Homeowners Association put words into action on October 28 – National First Responders Day – by serving up lunch at Flagler County Fire Rescue Station 41 in the Hammock to the firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and Flagler County Sheriff’s Office deputies who serve that area of the county.
“All Flagler County first responders were welcome to join us,” said Michael Keeton, one of the event organizers. “We were thinking that since this year National First Responders Day falls on Saturday, spouses, partners, and children are welcome to join as well.”
October 28th sets aside National First Responders Day to honor the men and women who act quickly when an emergency is at hand – the people who run toward a crisis while the rest of the world flees.
“It would have been the 5th year, but the second year was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Keeton said. “This event seems to grow every year and we expect to continue that trend.”
Flagler County Board of County Commissioners Chair Greg Hansen attended the event and said a few words of praise.
“We have wonderful first responders here in Flagler County working around the clock for us,” Hansen said. “We are very fortunate, and this is a great event to honor them.”
Residents of Lakeside by the Sea prepared and delivered side dishes and desserts. Some acted as servers, helping the first responders make their plates during the picnic.
Local businesses – notably the Publix on State Road A1A, Rodie’s Place, and Hammock Pizza – generously helped with donations of food and supplies.
“Our partners are great to work with,” Keeton said. “While this event is completely driven by the Lakeside by the Sea Homeowners Association, we all are extremely grateful for the service that our local First Responders provide to our neighborhood and we feel that this is a great way to show them our appreciation for their wonderful, lifesaving work.”
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