A decade of gratitude was celebrated Thursday as the annual First Responder Luncheon took place honoring the dedication and service of emergency personnel from across the region.
The event, hosted by Emergency Ambulance Service Inc., in collaboration with Fosters Towing and Midtown Auto and Tire, has evolved significantly over the years, growing from a small gathering to a large-scale appreciation event.
Josh Bishop, CEO of EASI, explained the event’s evolution. “This is our annual first responder lunch. This is the 10th year, and it’s grown from just serving burgers and hot dogs to the local police to encompassing the whole county and all seven counties,” he said. “EASI serves any first responders or their families who want to come.”
Bishop says the lunch aims to provide a “small way to get everybody together and say thank you.”
This year, organizers prepared to serve approximately 175 people. Bishop emphasized the importance of bringing first responders together in a relaxed setting. “It’s just a simple way to get us all together in a non-stressful situation,” he said. “Most of the time, we’re all together, we’re working some kind of public safety issue or medical call. So, this is just a laid-back way to get everybody together and just enjoy a good plate of food.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
The impact of the event on morale was evident, with interim Pine Bluff Fire Chief Ernest Jones highlighting its significance.
“Anytime anyone shows appreciation, it is a morale boost,” he said. “You know, a lot of times we work late at night and when people have them(selves) one of the worst times of their lives, it’s really not the right time to show appreciation, but at times like this, it makes guys feel appreciated,” he said. “Every opportunity we get to show appreciation and for an organization like EASI to show appreciation, it helps us to work better together and provide those services for the citizens of (Pine Bluff).”
The event’s growth was also attributed to increased community involvement. “It has grown from being talked about to actually being put into action,” said Jones, who mentioned groups like “the purple shirts,” Jefferson Regional Medical Center, Midtown, New Life Church, and others, highlighting it as “a collaborative effort from everybody in Pine Bluff to come together to show appreciation for emergency services.”
Naisha Aldridge, director of Public Outreach, also shared her perspective, emphasizing the importance of showing appreciation to first responders who “work 24/7, 365, that’s a tough job.”
“It’s exciting because you see all agencies come together,” she said. “Typically, when we come together, it’s on a scene with something horrific, but today is about just love spreading love, positive vibes and everyone is here getting a free meal.”
The event was made possible through partnerships with Fosters Towing, Midtown Auto and Tire, and the “Helping Hands” volunteers, who Aldridge praised for their assistance in setting up, breaking down and serving food.
“They are so gracious to always come out each year,” she said.
