“It’s a free, fun, family event. Something we do to kind of connect with the community’s young families,” said Wendy Keller, executive director of Magic City Discovery Center. “What child doesn’t love to climb in a helicopter or a fire truck or a crane?”

There were large gatherings of people of all ages, and quickly moving lines, at several of the vehicles on display. Children were enthralled with the opportunity to board a helicopter, climb into a fire truck, check out a police cruiser, and many other interesting “trucks” from throughout the community.

“We’ve had very good participation and the community has been awesome,” remarked Keller while looking over the many people walking from one display to another. “We don’t have to pay the trucks to come and participate. They do it as a thing for the community, as a free service.”

The “hands-on” event was geared for children but, oh boy, did the youngsters and their parents enjoy it! Children had a chance to honk the horn and feel the steering wheel in their hands on many of the vehicles. Several cranes towered over the displays, as did the ladder truck from the Minot Fire Department.

Kim Fundingsland/MDN Karen Rasmusson, board president, and Wendy Keller, executive director, both with the Magic City Discover Center, were pleased with the turnout for the Center’s annual “Touch a Truck” event Wednesday.

At the Magic City Discovery Center display visitors could see artist renderings of the building under construction in north Minot and ask questions about the facility. Keller said many people at the annual “Touch a Truck” event wanted to know when the doors would finally open and what would be inside.

“We broke ground in May and will have the building built by next June,” said Keller. “Then we will install about 150 exhibits. That will take a few months, so we will be open in late 2022. It’s pretty exciting.”