Washington
Townships 2005 National Night Out was again a resounding success. It’s
estimated that the turnout was 50% greater than in 2004. The weather
was warm, but with over 1,600 hot dogs, 1,800 hamburgers, 100 cases
of soda and water, 800 Dairy Queen ice cream sandwiches, donated by
the Hackettstown Dairy Queen, fresh corn and watermelons, donated by
Ort's Farm, served the event had an old time county fair flavor.
One
of the many highlights of the evening was the arrival of the United
States Coast Guard – Atlantic City Station helicopter aircrew. The crew
answered all questions regarding their mission and the operation of
the aircraft. Children (and a few adults) were allowed to enter the
aircraft. Prior to the Coast Guard’s departure, a demonstration of a
PIW (person in water) recovery took place.
Independence Township K9 officer Sgt. Dennis Reilly demonstrated the
ability of his police dog, and Quest Karate exhibited their proficiency
in the martial arts. The Long Valley First Aid Squad demonstrated some
of their extraction techniques, and the Schooley’s Mountain Fire Protection
Association sprayed foam and water at the conclusion of activities,
to the delight of many.
The Community Policing Unit, assisted by the staff from Long Valley
Pizza and Teens against Crime (TAC) served the crowd. The evening was
a great opportunity for the kids in attendance to star their collection
of police trading cards. Several collectors appeared to be close to
having a complete set.
The Community Policing Unit has special thanks to Harrington/Hoffman
Supply for their popsicles, fresh popped popcorn and generators, lights
and other equipment needed to make the evening a success. The Long Valley
Area Junior Woman's Club, the Kiwanis Club, and the Key Club, Wayne
Laraway of Game Faces, Sprinkles the Clown, the Hackettstown Dairy Queen,
Ort Farm, the 2nd Battalion 102nd Armor from Port Murray, MADD, the
Washington Township Recreation, Parks, and Department of Public Works,
the Long Valley First Aid Squad, the Fairmont Fire Company, the Schooley's
Mountain Fire Protection Association, and the Long Valley Fire Company,
and all the other residents and organizations who made National Night
Out a great success.
