Last week the First Annual Public Safety Night Out was held on the square in downtown Knoxville.

First responders from many agencies across the county took part in the event. The event was sponsored by the Marion County Emergency Response Association, Marion County Emergency Management, KNIA/KRLS and Hy-Vee. Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Anderson wants to thank the Pella Fire Department for bringing their aerial unit, Knoxville Township Rural Fire Department for setting up the kids water fights but mainly everyone for taking time to be a part of the great event. During the Night Out the Knoxville Hy-Vee served 480 meals while receiving $1,403 in free will donations that will be used by the Marion County Emergency Response Association to assist volunteer departments. Anderson says departments will meet again at the end of August and will begin the planning to make next year even better.