Bright flashing lights and blaring sirens drew hundreds of visitors to Riverside Park last Tuesday evening for the 17th annual Indian River County National Night Out event, hosted by the Vero Beach Police Department and the IRC Sheriff’s Office. The event, coordinated by Sheriff’s Deputy Roberta Barker and Vero Beach Police Officer Anna Carden, is designed to foster an ongoing relationship between members of law enforcement and the public.
But as far as the youngsters were concerned, it was a really great way to explore all the nifty tools they utilize in their daily jobs, including vehicles of every shape and size – motorcycles and police cars, Critical Response Team vans, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Airboat, IRSO helicopter and Fire Rescue ambulances and fire trucks. Another hit with the crowd were demonstrations by four-legged, tail-wagging, K-9 law enforcement members. As people wandered the shaded paths, they also visited with representatives from various other law enforcement and military organizations as well as local nonprofit agencies.
“It a way to show what we can do for folks,” said Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Bud Spencer. “It’s a good event.”
He spoke about some of the lesser-known services provided, including home patrols when owners are out of town conducted by trained volunteer members of the Civilian Service Unit, and daily wellness calls to seniors living alone. Partnership programs include Project Lifesaver, in conjunction with the Alzheimer and Parkinson Association of IRC, and Meals on Wheels distributions through the Senior Resource Association.
“We really enjoy it,” said Carden, VBPD community and public service officer, of the event. “People come out and talk to us; we can show the friendlier side of law enforcement.”
“The best part is it gives us an opportunity to interact with the public,” agreed VBPD Chief of Police David Currey. “We’re here to have the public come out to meet our people and see our equipment. This is for the community. It shows that we’re committed and it gives us a way to mingle with them in a relaxed, beautiful evening.
The crowd also enjoyed free hot dogs, compliments of Target, the nationwide sponsor of National Night out for close to 30 years. Held elsewhere in the country in August, sweltering summertime heat prompted several southern locations to switch the date to October. Tuesday night’s delightful weather was a clear indication that they made the right decision.
