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Date: 8/12/2021
RUSSELL – The Russell Police Department put out an alert this week on social media that the free Family Fun Day and Car Show at Strathmore Park is fast approaching on Aug. 22, from noon to 5 p.m., rain or shine.
Sgt. Sean Shattuck said some of the events scheduled include live music with Kittie and the Beard and Jeff Gavioli’s Bad News Jazz and Blues Orchestra; a bounce house and water slide, face painting by Mams Creation’s Handmade, and a magic show by Rick Mayers. Vintage and classic cars will also be on display.
Also featured will be a police dog demonstration by the Easthampton Police Department’s K-9 Gina. McGruff the Crime Dog will be on hand for pictures with children, as will the Russell Police Department’s mascot Levi.
The food is being catered by Cafe Cristo’s of Springfield, which is donating all of it, Shattuck said.
“This day is designed for the Russell Police Department to give back to the community, to bring kids in and build bridges with the community,” Shattuck said. He said Russell is working with the Hampden County Sheriff, Massachusetts State Police and departments in area hilltowns to send representatives to mingle with the crowd.
Shattuck said numerous private citizens, groups and stores are offering raffle prizes, including Hilltown Chic of Westfield, which will have a tent at the event.
Shattuck said the Family Fun Day is a kickoff of sorts for the Russell Police Department’s season of giving.
“Russell Police have a history of trying to give back to the community. Not just this one event, but holiday meals for people who struggle,” Shattuck said. He said last year, they donated hundreds of Christmas trees, as well as $3,000 worth of toys and $2,000 of food to the Huntington Food Pantry.
Plans are in the works for two other events this year, which Shattuck said would be revealed at a later date.