Darlington and Hartsville police ready for National Night Out
By Samantha Lyles, Staff Writer, slyles@newsandpress.net
Make plans to take the whole family out Aug. 6 and join local law enforcement and first responders for the annual National Night Out celebrations.
In Darlington, the event is scheduled for 6-8 p.m. on the Pearl Street block between Main and Dargan.
“On National Night Out, law enforcement and the community come together to outshine crime, to show we are unified against criminal activity,” says Capt. Kimberly Nelson of the Darlington Police Department.
“This year, we’re partnering with the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office, so they will have their vehicles there. The National Guard is going to bring their games trailer.”
Nelson says there will be many activities for kids to enjoy, like face painting by the Darlington High School cheerleaders, exploring fire trucks from the Darlington Fire Department and various games from the Darlington Recreation Department.
Also, the Free Medical Clinic of Darlington County will offer information and free health screenings, The Lord Cares food bank will offer information about how to help those in need or register for help.
Kids headed back to school will also have the chance to take home free school supplies.
“Lots of churches will also be there, and we’ll have lots of free food and drinks for everyone,” says Nelson.
In Hartsville, National Night Out will be observed Aug. 24 in Burry Park from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Sponsored by the Hartsville Police Department and Hartsville Fire Department, the night will offer music, fun activities, free food, meet and greet with first responders, and a screening of “Aquaman” around 8:45 p.m. In case of rain, the event will move to the T.B. Thomas Sports Center.
Each year, National Night Out events across America help promote police-community partnerships to make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live.
National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a sense of community. It provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.