HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Local churches, organizations and businesses, and a whole lot of folks came together Sunday evening despite the threat of storms to celebrate what was dubbed “Unity in the Community.”

This event was mainly in the east parking lot of the Father’s House Church, 1505 E. 20th. The focus of the event was to promote unity and strengthen community relations throughout Hutchinson and the surrounding area.

City officials, law enforcement and local pastors led everyone in prayer and, of course, there was music and some good food available.

Both Hutchinson Police Capt. Troy Hoover and Reno County Sheriff Randy Henderson were there and noted that this is a chance for people to interact with law enforcement, fire officials and see that they are just people too. Police have gotten some bad news coverage because of events across the country and this was meant to allow residents to interact with police.

Pastor Quinton Moore, whose church was the host for this event, commented that most in the local community at least support law enforcement who work hard to protect us.

It was a great crowd that attended. It kind of seemed like a warm up for the Kansas State Fair with a carnival-like atmosphere.