Cities across the country will host National Night Out celebrations on Tuesday, Oct. 6 as part of a movement to increase engagement and strengthen the relationships between law enforcement and citizens. These events gather together communities, local first responders and neighbors for a great evening of fun and fellowship.
The Whitesboro Police Department will host its 3rd annual National Night Out at Whitecotton Park at 5:30 p.m. A sensory-friendly hour from 5:30-6:30 p.m. will offer no lights or sirens and as little loud noise as possible.
This free event will include bounce houses; snow cones; a petting zoo; free hot dogs, chips and drinks (thanks to sponsor Frank’s Wrecker Service); touch-a-truck opportunities; and several organizations on-site with information, give-aways and family-friendly activities.
Meanwhile, at last week’s Collinsville City Council meeting, Mayor Chase Guidera read a proclamation declaring Tuesday, Oct. 6 as National Night Out. The City of Collinsville will host its event that night from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in downtown Collinsville. The event will kick off with opening ceremonies to include performances by the Shields of Honor pipe and drum band and the Collinsville High School marching band; convocation by Pastor Scott Sides from Collinsville Church of Christ; and public speakers Mayor Guidera, new Police Chief Jon Cheshire and Grayson County Sheriff Tony Bennie.
Local citizen Cynthia Shelton will serve as the event’s emcee and the band Olden Young will donate their time and equipment to perform for the duration of the evening.
This event will also include local vendors, dinner by Perry’s Pulled Pork (for the 10th consecutive year) and games. Around 8 p.m., there will be a free raffle for adults (tickets can be obtained at the police/city event booth). Downtown restaurants will also be open, and the City is appreciative of all the support of the downtown businesses.
This event is free to the public and sponsored by the Collinsville Economic and Industrial Development Boards.
This year’s event is different in that every officer being celebrated is new to the department. Attendees will meet Chief Cheshire, K9 Handler Officer Paul Marrufo, Officers Jacob Prahl, Scott Taylor and Collin Fralicks and Reserve Officer James Mastrofini.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. The event enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. It also provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
Millions of neighbors take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories and military bases worldwide on the first Tuesday in August (Texas and select areas celebrate on the first Tuesday in October). Neighborhoods host block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and various other community events with safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, exhibits and more.
To learn more about National Night Out, visit natw.org
