Hard Hat Hangout Sees Biggest Turnout Yet

This year's event was the first not held on Fathers Day weekend.

Photo provided.

(Aurora, Ind.) - The Hard Hat Hangout idea lingered for many years in the back of Aurora Utility Superintendent Randy Turner's mind. In 2017, he approached Executive Director Nancy Fahey Turner and Board President Judy S. Hizer who both fell in love with his idea and the first "hangout", highlighting CALL 811 BEFORE YOU DIG, was held Father's Day Saturday 2017.

The event, held the previous three years on Father’s Day weekend, was cancelled in 2020 and moved to August 21st this year due to COVID. The day is filled with equipment on display for kids and adult kids, to look at up close and experience firsthand! Children can sit in the driver’s seat and get the feel of a big rig, as drivers and operators answer questions about their jobs! Children received hard hats, beach balls, hot dogs and drinks all courtesy of Main Street Aurora and Aurora Utility.

Adam Boyd, Aurora Utility Water Foreman and event co-organizer said, “Saturday was a big hit! The best turn out ever! I had a line of 5-6 families, three hours straight, nonstop!” Boyd cradled an 18 month old, and a special needs 15 year old during the event.

Main Street Aurora sponsors the event in partnership with Aurora Utilities, Aurora Fire Department, Paul Rohe, Pat McGraw, Aurora Lions Club, Brett Fehrman, and Bill Yelton just to name a few.

#goodthingshappeninaurora!