Despite high temperatures, crowds made their way around the facility’s walking track to enjoy free food and take part in the free activities offered by a number of local public safety agencies.
“This has gone really well,” said Stacey Smith, City of Rockmart Community Development and an event organizer. “Things were slow to start I guess because of the heat, but we are really pleased by the turnout and are looking forward to next year.”
National Night Out is a program designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness while also strengthening the partnership between the community and local law enforcement.
“This event makes a huge difference,” Smith said. “It gives kids a chance to be around law enforcement figures in a friendly environment. It shows them that they shouldn’t be scared of them if a situation comes up.”
The event was hosted by the City of Rockmart Police Department and the Northwest Georgia Housing Authority along with special help from both Floyd and Redmond emergency medical services.
“We had more public safety agencies here this year than in 2009, and we’ve already had others tell us they want to participate next year,” Smith said.
A number of agencies and service groups provided giveaways and snacks while all who attended were treated to free hot dogs and drinks.
Redmond sponsored a fireworks display following an outdoor showing of the children's movie “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs”.
The event kicked off with members of the Atlanta Skydiving Club landing on the infield of the track to the delight of the crowd. Rockmart Mayor Curtis Lewis then welcomed everyone and read a city proclamation recognizing the importance of the occasion.
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