Picnic honors Hampton’s first responders

When Hampton Township resident and business owner Al Todd needed first responders, they were there for him.

“A few years back, we had a house fire, and we have also needed EMS before. So I just really appreciate what these people do,” said Todd.

As a show of gratitude, he now hosts an annual first responders’ picnic, where he provides a catered meal with hamburgers, hot dogs and barbecue — and a very competitive tug-of-war competition. This year’s picnic was held Aug. 25.

In years past, the tug-of-war was held between each of the departments serving the township. Members from the North Hampton Fire Department, Hampton Fire Department, Shaler Hampton EMS and the Hampton Township Police Department would compete with one another until a grand champion was decided.

The tug-of-war matches were mainly for bragging rights, but this year Todd commissioned a gold cup trophy for the winning team.

Something else was special this year. Because the numbers didn’t work out evenly, a team had to be formed that included members from all four of the departments, and it just so happened to be the winning team.

“It’s nice that the winning team had members from all the departments. It’s just a great event where we can all get together outside of work and have a good time,” said police Chief Thomas Vulakovich.

Some residents may recognize Todd’s name from one of his other philanthropic endeavors. He is the founder of Al’s Bike Drive, which raises money to buy bicycles for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program.

“We buy the bikes from Walmart, right here on Route 8. Then we have a big parade with fire trucks and ambulances to deliver the bikes,” said Todd.

His charity is closely connected with the first responders, which is another reason why he enjoys giving back to them.

“Their service really means a lot to me, and I just want to show them that people appreciate it,” he said.

Todd attended the Hampton Township council meeting on Sept 27 to award the trophy to the heads of the departments. However, there was only one trophy, so Vulakovich told EMS executive director Eric Schmidt that he could hold the trophy until next year and it can rotate through the departments.

“It’s like the Stanley Cup, except we won’t be adding any rings to it,” joked Vulakovich.

Schmidt humbly accepted the trophy and agreed to share it.

“It’s very special that a community member wants to recognize public servants and its always great fun,” he said.

Anyone interested in donating to Al’s Bike Drive can visit www.alsbikedrive.org.