Prince George First Responders Day: Parade, safety demos, pet adoptions, farmers market

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PRINCE GEORGE — Support first responders and enjoy fresh local produce at the Prince George Farmers’ Market this Saturday. The special market will honor and give back to those who give the community their all.

One of the highlights of the event will be the visit from Sansa the pet therapy dog. She will bring joy and comfort to attendees. Children will also have the opportunity to meet the County’s new K-9 bloodhound Maggie Mae. Adding to the excitement of the day, a Paw Patrol character will be present.

Safety demonstrations will be a key feature of the market. Attendees can learn about fire safety through a Fire Safety House experience complete with simulated smoke and witness a fire extinguisher demonstration. They can also participate in a fire hose demonstration where kids will be able to knock down a cone.

Animal Control Officer Samantha Santilli shares her dog Sansi, a Prince George County Police Department K-9 therapy dog, with children at the Prince George Library in 2019.
Animal Control Officer Samantha Santilli shares her dog Sansi, a Prince George County Police Department K-9 therapy dog, with children at the Prince George Library in 2019.

The Prince George County Police Department’s tactical robot and Chesterfield County’s robot dog will also be present showcasing the latest advancements in law enforcement technology.

The market will feature an exciting lineup of activities for children.

  • 9:00 a.m. until noon - Animal adoption event

  • 9:15 a.m. - Public Safety Vehicle Parade [coming down Scott Park]

  • 9:30 a.m. - Opening Ceremonies at the flag pole [Lt. Jodie Warren will play “Amazing Grace” on bagpipes to commemorate the events of 9/11/01]

  • 9:45 a.m. - K-9 Demonstration on the baseball field

  • 10:15 a.m. - HCA Virginia Health System Air Care Eagle and EMS will land a helicopter on the baseball field for kids to view the helicopter

  • 10:45 a.m. - Story Time with the Chief of Police

  • 11:15 a.m. - Story Time with the Fire and EMS Chief

The event will bring together various first responders including police, fire, sheriff, communications officers and animal control officers. Visitors can engage with these dedicated professionals and gain insights into their roles and responsibilities.

In addition to the activities, the market will host a diverse range of local vendors. From fresh produce and meats to baked goods and custom tumblers, attendees will have access to a wide variety of high-quality products. Skincare and facial products, custom soaps, woodworking, and even an ice cream truck, kettle corn and pork skins will be available.

The Prince George County Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Scott Park Pavilion, adjacent to the Prince George Library. Rain or shine, the event promises to be an enjoyable experience for all. SNAP/EBT cards are accepted for qualifying items, and the market features SNAP matching incentives and Senior Nutrition Program checks. Patrons can also conveniently use their debit or credit cards by exchanging them for tokens at the Farmers’ Market manager's table, which can be used like cash at the vendors' tables.

Visit princegeorgecountyva.gov or PG Farmers Market on Facebook for additional information about the event on Saturday, Sept. 9 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Scott Memorial Park is located at 6680 Courthouse Road in Prince George.

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This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Prince George Farmers' Market First Responders Day: Activities galore