Graham NC has National Night Out
August 5, 2008
By: Brie Handgraaf / Times-News
Hundreds of locals got together around Graham on Tuesday night to enjoy summer favorites like hot dogs and snow cones, play games, share stories and just get together.
But it was more than just widespread block parties. It was a national effort to raise awareness for anticrime efforts.
National Night Out is observed across the country, but everyone celebrates it a little different. Graham had businesses, law enforcement and neighbors gather at the police department for information, resources and fun.
A local resident tests the “Seat Belt Convincer” on Tuesday at the 25th annual National Night Out at the Graham Police Department.
Graham Police Chief Jeff Prichard was even raising money for Special Olympics at a dunking booth. He was a good sport about it, even when his 9-year-old daughter, Emily, stepped up to the line. Emily hit her target two out of three times, sending her dear old dad into the murky water.
"It was awesome," she said, adding that it was the highlight of the event for her. "I play softball so it was pretty easy."
Graham NC has National Night Out [Video]
Alamance County EMS and Graham firefighters showed off their trucks to eager kids and even bandaged up one boy's finger after he cut it at the event.
Members of the Alamance County Gang Task Force were also on hand to teach parents how to identify gangs and explain some examples of what members do to show off their allegiance to the Bloods, Crips, Sureño 13 and other popular local gangs.
"I hadn't seen all these policemen together like this before," Peggy Eaton said. "That is what I enjoy watching."
