By Madison Butkus
Hometown Weekly Reporter
The Needham Police Department (NPD) held their second annual Open House for all community members to come and enjoy. This event was from 10 am to 1 pm and located right at the police station.
As attendees entered the surrounding outdoor area of the station, they were welcomed to participate in a variety of activities. These included tours of the station, police cruisers and a fire truck, an arts and crafts table, a face painting station, corn hole, a water table, and toy police cars to ride around in. Popcorn and pizza were available for those to indulge in. There was also a table set up that sold NPD merch.
Officers were set up all around the area, mingling with community members and showcasing their incredible department. Also in attendance was Needham community resource dog, Rocket. Everyone was ecstatic to see him, especially the kids who ran over to go and give him lots of pets.
When talking with NPD Police Chief John Schlittler, he detailed just how much the department loves doing events like these. “It’s a really great way to reach out,” Schlittler stated, “to the community and the kids. They get to see us in an atmosphere and environment where it’s fun and playful. It’s just a huge benefit for us to connect with our community and show them we are there for them.”
School Resource Officer of the Needham Police Department, Joseph Brienze, went on to additionally explain, “Last year we had an incredible turnout despite the weather and even ran out of pizza. This year we have Rocket ‘stuffies’, challenge coins, patches, and more. We are just really happy to welcome everyone here.”
As the day progressed further, families filtered in and out, receiving toy fire truck hats and an abundance of stickers to wear. Everything within this event was free of charge and it was easy to see just how much fun attendees had.
