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Neighbors | Jessica Harker.A tent dedicated to the Look Out for Motorcycles campaign was set up to educate people about motorcycle safety August 7 for the National Night Out event.
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Neighbors | Jessica Harker.SWAT team vehicles were parked in the Austintown Park August 7 for the sixth annual National Night Out event.
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Neighbors | Jessica Harker.The Vegas Band played at the Austintown Park August 7 for the National Night Out event.
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Neighbors | Jessica Harker.Attendees set up blankets and lawn chairs to listen to the Vegas Band August 7 during the annual National Night Out event.
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Neighbors | Jessica Harker.Vendors sold food to attendees at the annual Austintown Night Out event in the Austintown Park August 7.
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Neighbors | Jessica Harker.A bounce house was set up during the annual National Night Out event at Austintown Park August 7.
By JESSICA HARKER
On Aug. 7, Austintown Park hosted its sixth annual National Night Out event.
The event was part of the larger organization, National Night Out, which is “an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.”
NNO has been hosting the night nation-wide for 21 years.
During the event local police and firefighters attended, explaining their jobs and allowing children and their families to explore the inside of safety vehicles and ask officers questions.
Representatives from both state and local police, as well as paramedics were also present at the event.
“Its a great engaging event for the community,” said Jane Woodsmith who came to the event. “It’s a great place to bring the whole family.”
Woodsmith attended the event with her 4-year old son Jackson, and said it was his first interaction with a police officer.
“He’s never had to experience safety professionals before. For him to be able to do this in a fun and safe way I think makes a big difference for him,” She said.
During the event Giant Eagle and Deitz & Watson made donations to the local fire department.
The donation was made from a portion of the sales from both businesses during July.
The Vegas Band played a concert during the event and vendors and food trucks sold concessions to those in attendance.
Peg Flynn, from the Green Team, was also at the event to discuss recycling with local children and their families.
Face painting, crafts and a bounce house were also available for children.
“Its a cool atmosphere, its good for kids to meet the police and not be scared,” said Tony Vientia who attended the event.
Superheros Captain America, Wonder Woman, Black Panther and Spider Man were also in attendance to pose for pictures.
“It’s been a lot of fun, and I hope they continue this for a long time,” Woodsmith said.