Huge crowd turns out for CPD’s community cookout

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Andrew Cryer

CULLMAN – As a way to bring the community together, the Cullman Police Department (CPD) worked with Cullman Cosmetic & Family Dentistry (CCFD) to hold a free cookout for Cullman residents on Friday. Members of the CPD and CCFD say they hope to make sure this an annual event. This year's cookout drew a larger crowd than expected, as more than 250 meals were served by noon, and organizers had to have someone pick up more. Those who showed up enjoyed a variety of grilled meats like hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hotdogs, chicken and venison.

The cookout was held at the Festhalle in downtown Cullman.

Much of the food was donated by local organizations. Pepsi and Bojangles both donated drinks, while Golden Flake gave discounts for the bags of chips. Much of the meat was donated by CCFD and other donors. Christian radio station WDJC radio helped advertise to the community, and the message of free food brought a seemingly endless supply of customers. WDJC also broadcast live from the event.

CPD Sgt. Adam Clark shared, "This is more people than we've ever had at one of these things."

CCFD has worked with Cullman police on their community events for about three years, being one of the first contributors to the department's yearly "Shop with a Cop" program.

"It's a great way to give back, and a good way to kick off the summer," said Dr. Jonathan Echols from CCFD. "We're just glad to have an event like this to get everyone out and enjoy the weather before it gets too hot and also enjoy the community. We're glad to have a place to do this in the middle of town. It's nice, it's a real small-town event."

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