Five-O Cookout Brings Wooster Community and First Responders Together

The Wooster Police Department and Bowman Beverage joined forces Saturday, August 15, to celebrate the community’s 11th Annual Five-O Cookout.

Hosted at Bowman Beverage, the beloved annual gathering was originally founded by Bret Defibaugh. Today, his son, Corbett Coots, continues the family tradition and helps keep this special neighborhood event alive.

The Five-O Cookout provides an opportunity for local law enforcement and residents to connect in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. The event serves as a bridge between first responders and the community, giving residents the chance to meet officers, ask questions, and build relationships outside of traditional emergency situations.

Attendees of all ages had plenty of fun. Children enjoyed a bounce house and face painting, while families could tour a fire truck and ambulance and visit with Wooster’s first responders. A race car was also on display. Guests enjoyed complimentary hot dogs, chips, and ice cream novelties throughout the afternoon.

“This event brings our community together, allowing residents to see officers in a positive light,” said Community Resource Officer Donald Hall. “Behind every badge is a person, and behind every police department is a community. The Five-O Cookout brings both together, building trust and positive relationships. This annual event is one the police department looks forward to each year.”

The successful afternoon was made possible through the generous support and participation of local partners and businesses, including:

• Bowman Beverage
• Wooster Police Department
• Wayne County Sheriff’s Office
• Ohio State Highway Patrol
• Wooster Fire Department
• Wooster Citizen’s Police Academy
• Certified Angus Beef
• Frito-Lay

The Five-O Cookout remains a meaningful Wooster tradition, bringing families, neighbors, and first responders together while strengthening the connections that make our community a great place to live.