ABOVE: 9-1-1 dispatchers pause during a visit with a curious youngster.
National Night Out began exactly 42 years ago, in August of 1984. National Association of Town Watch wanted a yearly event where all localities could bring police officers, first responders, and communities together for a relaxing night of getting to know each other; not to mention a chance for kids to understand what these special jobs are all about.
It was alive and well in Danville on Tuesday, as special units from all over Vermilion County got together from 4 to 8 PM; in the parking lot northeast of the Gilbert – Fairchild intersection.
(1st Picture) Danville Police Detective Zane Reining. (3rd Picture) Bismarck Fire Lieutenant Jarrett Divan.
Amidst the loud hum of all the rumbling engines, CIMG was able to chat with a few of those in attendance. One was Detective Zane Reining from the Danville Police Department, hoping to meet some very curious kids during the afternoon and evening hours.
AUDIO: I’m really hoping that, us bringing this back to Danville, that it gives the opportunity for the youth in the community to come and see what we do, and kind of get a grasp on what it is we’re here for.
Representatives from Rossville Police, Danville Firefighters, and Aunt Martha’s Health & Wellness.
Also there was a team of 9-1-1 dispatchers led by Crystal Compton, who admitted that this is a favorite event of hers; especially when you look at what it can do across the country.
AUDIO: Just for people to get out with the community; engage with first responders in a more relaxed setting. This is actually presented nationwide. There’s events all over the country; it’s put on by the National Town Hall Association. All across the country neighborhoods are celebrating. Some people have massive block parties, some people have touch-a-truck events; it’s anywhere in between. So it’s just for people to get out, and interact with responders and meet them, and ask questions.
During Tuesday’s National Night Out activities at Gilbert and Fairchild, CIMG was also able to talk with Georgetown Firechief Rusty Berry, and Bismarck Fire Lieutenant Jarrett Divan.
