| NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
August 3, 2010
The weather was hot and so was the music and dancing! It was also the night to meet the neighbors, local law enforcement, fire and rescue personnel. Patricia Copeland, Rescue Chief at Aquia Harbour Volunteer Rescue Squad coordinated this annual event with the Stafford County Sheriff's Department. Over 1200 neighbors got together at Stafford Marketplace on Tuesday, August 3rd to celebrate National Night Out. Its purpose is to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime programs, strengthen law enforcement-community partnerships and neighborhood spirit.
Over thirty businesses and civic organizations had their wears on display. The Stafford County Sheriff's Department set up its Mobile Command Center and Special Operations Trailer. Widewater Volunteer Fire and Rescue brought in its Rescue Boat for the community to see. Stafford Volunteer Rescue Squad offered ambulance tours and plenty of safety information. The music was provided by 93.3 WFLS and dozens of people of all ages were dancing to the county sounds. Free pony rides were provided by the United Horsemen's Association were a hit with the kids. The ASPCA was able to find homes for a litter of puppies dropped off just that day. Stafford County Fire and Rescue joined in the festivities with Medic 10 and Engine 9 at the scene. Boy Scouts from Troop 1425 grilled over 1200 hot dogs. Gallons of lemonade and cases of water were consumed.
The members of the Aquia Harbour Volunteer Rescue Squad fitted over 280 free bike helmets for children. Members making sure the kids got a good fit were; Mike Schaefer, Janet Schroeder, Angela Wilhelm, Shannon Grimes, Doug Dudley, Bob Zink, and Michelle Taylor. Erin Grant, Maria Lo Duco, Melissa Hensel, and Sharon Schaefer manned the information table. Purchase of the bicycle helmets was augmented by a grant from the Virginia Department of Health, Division of Injury and Violence Prevention. Safety information on poison prevention and bike safety were also given out. Lynn Platt, Jim Smith and Jayne Toellner coordinated activities with Chief Copeland. Janis Holcombe, Squad historian, snapped the pictures so there would be a photographic record.
At the end of the evening Stafford County Sheriff Charlie Jett presented the Squad with a "Certificate of Appreciation" for participating and organizing this annual event. Over seventeen neighborhoods held Night Out events in Stafford this year. Last year the County placed 18th nationally for like populations by the National Night Out organization. Working together makes things happen. Thanks everyone for your help and participation. See you next year! |
