PARKERSBURG - Officials are anticipating many young faces for the annual Wood County Deputy Sheriff's Association kids picnic Friday at Parkersburg City Park.
The kids day picnic in the park has allowed young children to meet local deputies and law enforcement officials from the Wood County Sheriff's Department for more than 20 years. Local deputy sheriff's will be in attendance, running the show behind the scenes and meeting those in the community.
"It's a chance for us to build relationships with the youth," said Lt. Shawn Graham, president of the Wood County Deputy Sheriff's Association.
Children have the opportunity to interact with their local police officers, he said.
The picnic, sponsored by the deputy sheriff's association, will have food provided by the local McDonald's, and an appearance from Ronald McDonald.
"There are inflatables for the kids to play on," said Graham, along with bikes, games, clowns and balloons.
The deputy sheriffs buy the bicycles, which are provided as prizes through the efforts of the entire community.
"We are able to do this for kids as a result of donations and support of the community," said Graham.
The event draws about 500-1,000 children each year.
