The City of Mesquite is readying to show its gratitude to local first responders with a slew of activities during the 2024 Public Safety Appreciation Week. Running from Sept. 30 through Oct. 7, the week-long celebration aims to bridge the gap between the community and the first responders who serve it. According to a schedule posted on the City of Mesquite, residents will have the opportunity to share a cup of coffee or a burger with cops and firefighters, creating a space for connection and understanding.
Starting the week, "Coffee with a Cop" kicks in on Oct. 1 from 8-10 a.m. at Bear Cave Coffee, located at 214 W. Davis St., as outlined in the City of Mesquite. In an evening event designed for fostering community, police, fire, and city staff will mingle with residents as a part of National Night Out, with event details available on the city's webpage. Not able to meet the officers in daylight, community members can catch up with them during the National Night Out instead.
The following day, the "Burgers with a Badge" event offers the public another chance to interact with public safety personnel. The casual luncheon will take place at Braums, located at 3506 N. Galloway Avenue, starting at 11 a.m. on Oct. 2. Additionally, "Ladders and Lattes" provides a morning slot on Oct. 3 for citizens to engage with firefighters over coffee at Bear Cave Coffee starting at 8 a.m. Representatives from dispatch will also be available to the public at "Coffee, Call Takers and Conversations" on Oct. 4, hosted by Starbucks at 125 US-80 with sessions at 10 a.m. and again at 5 p.m. for those unable to make the morning gathering.
The culmination of the week's events will occur during the Public Safety Appreciation Week Closing, planned for 7 p.m. on Oct. 7 inside the Council Chambers at City Hall, 757 N. Galloway Avenue. In an emblematic gesture of appreciation and unity, first responders are set to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the City Council Meeting, as per the city's announcement. Inviting a moment for reflection and celebration of the work done by these individuals serves as a fitting conclusion to a week dedicated to those who respond first when the rest of us are seeking help.
