ABOUT THE only negative in Saturday’s Hurricane Huddle in La Marque was the dose of unexpected heavy rain that concluded festivities less than an hour before conclusion. Before then, the bright sunny skies welcomed hundreds who milled in and out of the recently-opened Central Fire Station to see how prepared the city is in the event of a hurricane.
The family-friendly event came with hot dogs for all attendees, yet the highlight of the day was the display of helicopters that came on two-hour intervals. A PHI medical transport helicopter was available throughout while a Coast Guard helicopter landed to the delight of young imaginative eyes and ears along with a Life Flight copter that made its appearance before the rain.
The City of La Marque also brought out their high-water rescue vehicles while the city’s public works department provided information on water conservation. When the sights and sounds of helicopters weren’t grabbing the attention of youngsters, the event also had bounce houses and other games that made the day a breeze.
Mother Nature was patient, however, when it came to the La Marque Police Department’s Jaws of Life demonstration as the officers expertly displayed their skills. Just as important was the tour of the new Central Fire Station, giving La Marque extra depth with state of the art equipment and new vehicles. The opening of the station was another boost for the community, which has made a dramatic effort in turning things around under the leadership of Mayor Bobby Hocking and his administration. La Marque’s emergency services received high praise for its work during Hurricane Harvey, and the addition of new first responders – teamed with their new facilities – will give the city’s residents a sense of peace in knowing they are in good hands should the need arise.
