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The Oak Forest Subdivision held its first annual Texas Night Out on Tuesday, October 6.

This is a time for neighbors to come together to get to know each other and meet and greet local emergency responders (Law Enforcement, Fire Officials, EMS) to build a partnership for the betterment of the community.

Representatives from the Johnson City Police Department, Blanco County Sheriff’s Department, and the North Blanco County EMS visited and spoke to those present.

Bryan Geeslin from the Police Department talked to the group about forming a Neighborhood Watch Program. Joe Johnson, Dick Casey and Louis Banta represented the Sheriff’s Department. Joe Johnson talked about the new jail and the importance of neighbors watching out for each other. Ben Oakley and Missy Jernigan from the North Blanco County EMS explained to the group what they do when they respond to a call.

Fire Chief, Ray Burdett talked about our local volunteer fire department. He discussed the number of fire calls each year, the equipment and the different types of trucks. There were several other firemen who came. Among them were Whitney Liesmann, and Bryan Mauldin. They brought a pumper truck, a brush truck and a large ladder truck.

The children enjoyed going through the police car, ambulance and fire trucks. Everyone enjoyed watching the ladder truck lift its bucket high beyond the treetops. The sirens and horns make a big impression on the young and old. Cookies and punch were served.

The Oak Forest Subdivision’s first Texas Night Out was a huge success. Everyone left with a heightened awareness of what is available from Johnson City’s emergency responders. The HOA is in the process of organizing a Neighborhood Watch Program. They already have a sign posted at the entrance to the subdivision.

James and Ann Richey organized the Block Party for Texas Night Out.