Bad weather moved the Aug. 6 event inside, where it still drew a large crowd.
Deptford’s National Night Out on Aug. 6 became a national night in because of drenching rain, but still drew hundreds of people to the township recreation center, according to Mayor Paul Medany.
The event included local police, firefighters and EMTs. While activities like a police K-9 demo and a Cooper Hospital trauma helicopter landing had to be canceled due to the weather, there were nonetheless smaller activities inside, including a look at a police vehicle and a Gloucester County EMT ambulance. Members of emergency services were also on hand to connect with residents.
“This is a great event for Deptford Township,” said Councilman Wayne Love. “The weather made things inclement, but we’re still so happy to have all these people serving the public out here. It is always so popular out here.”
Once National Night Out attendees entered the rec center, they found local representatives from the likes of the Cub Scouts and area businesses, such as Dick’s Sporting Goods. National entities such as the Army and Air Force manned tables filled with brochures and merchandise.
Balloon artists entertained kids and members of the Deptford High School Art Honor Society did face painting. Food was provided by Mission BBQ and the local group the Goodfellows Band provided live music. Also in attendance was Philadelphia Union mascot Phang and Paw Patrol’s Chase and Marshal.
National Night Out began around the country in 1984 as a way for police to connect with the community and inform them of local services.
“It’s important that our residents know what services are available to the community,” said Love. “So that if they need them, they know where to go look. It’s very important that our residents are exposed to the community and the vendors, to make that connection so that if they ever need help, they know who to go to.”
