CAMDEN — The Village of Camden celebrated its first-ever National Night Out with Police on Saturday, Aug. 27, at Tylersville Park in the village.
The event was hosted entirely by the Camden Police Department, with the intention of bringing the community and law enforcement closer together.
Those attending enjoyed live music from the 4 Mile Creek Band, partook in free hamburgers and hot dogs, snow cones and festival snacks. There were also games and bounce houses, face-painting and balloon-twisting, all of which was followed by a showing of Sing 2.
There was also a car-smashing event, with all proceeds going toward Camden’s K-9 unit.
Members of the Camden Police Department and the Eaton City Police Division gave K-9 demonstrations with police dogs Dax and Nykyta, and gave children attending the chance to participate in the demonstration.
Members of Camden Somers Fire & EMS also gave those interested a closer look at their vehicles and equipment, however duty called them away to an accident early into the event.
The Medflight helicopter was also at the event, giving children a chance to sit in the cockpit and learn about its functions.
“This whole thing was them,” said Mayor Toni Keesler. “All this was hosted by the police department.” Keesler included that noted, the event would not have been possible without the many sponsors, but stressed it was all hosted by the police themselves.
Camden council member Carla Risner, who assisted in organizing the event with Camden’s Police Department, remarked, “I think the turnout has been wonderful, it’s exceeded all of our expectations. I think this should show the community, as a whole, what we can do when we come together. I’m just very proud of Camden for coming out to this event and showing all the support for us, and the police department.”
