Thousands expected at Hernando’s National Night Out
The preservation of communities depends on the strength in unity of its neighborhoods. And the strongest foundations are built when an entire community of government officials, county protective services, local commerce and citizens come together as a unit.
Officials expect as many as 5,000 visitors at the annual event, sponsored by the Hernando County Sheriffís Office and Target. HERNANDO COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
That’s the idea behind National Night Out that takes place on Saturday in the Spring Hill Target parking lot. Officials expect as many as 5,000 visitors at the annual event, sponsored by the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and Target.
About 70 organizations will participate, including law enforcement, Fire/EMS, government, schools and private businesses to help spread the word that strength in communities begins with unity in neighborhoods.
“It is a great time to come out and see what our community has to offer,” said Denise Moloney, spokeswoman for the Hernando Sheriff’s Office. “It is all about families and getting to know our law enforcement and other community services.”
This year, several organizations have come together to entertain and educate adults and children with an evening that will include live demonstrations, outreach resources, interactions with local officials, and more.
Children’s events planned include a bounce house, face painting, photos with police and firemen, arts and crafts, balloon animals, and lots of snacks like snow cones and popcorn. Chick-Fil-A give out stuffed cows and other toys to children.
Demonstrations from Florida Highway Patrol and Jaws of Life, crash dummies, and a sheriff’s office canine demonstration are also planned. Bayflite will conduct a visual demonstration of their lifesaving efforts.
The Hernando County Fire Corps will host their Smokehouse where demonstrations of safe exiting techniques in case of fire will be explored. Visitors will experience a simulated structure fire and be given instruction on safe exiting procedures.
Other businesses and organizations that will be on hand include: Hernando County public services, Brooksville Tampa Regional Airport, Boston Market, the Boy and Girl Scouts, Papa John’s, Pepperidge Farms, Ken’s Service Center, Just Relax Massage, the Dawn Center, Texas Roadhouse, Spring Hill Printing Plus, Kiwanis, Bayfront Health Spring Hill, Sam’s Club, Tornadic Balloons & More, Big Frog, Rita Ice, and the YMCA.
National Night Out began in 1984, when 2.5 million visitors in more than 400 communities in 23 states turned out to support their neighborhoods. In 2013, that number grew to 37 million visitors in more than 15,000 communities in all 50 states and Canada.
The purpose of the event is to spread awareness to those involved in criminal activity that communities are not vulnerable.
National Night Out is organized annually in 25 Tampa Bay locations. Its bonds the community with resources while also promoting the message that strength in unity is a strong deterrent for crime.
National Night Out begins at 5 p.m. on Saturday at Target, 3101 Aerial Way in Spring Hill. The event is free. All businesses are donating their time and resources to support the mission of the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and to support the Hernando County community.
“It’s a great way for residents to get to know their neighbors and their community services in a family friendly environment,” Moloney said.
For more information, visit the HCSO page on Facebook.
Email Hernando Today correspondent Kim Dame at [email protected].
