South Orange Came to National Night Out

Long before Woody and Buzz took the screen for a showing of Toy Story 3, Aisle 5 provided music and local groups and law enforcement agencies provided information and entertainment. South Mountain School's Mr. K kept kids entertained, while others bounced in the bounce house and played in a blow-up fire hose.

This was South Orange's second NNO, after last year's successful evening, when as many as 600 people attended. Nationally, NNO is is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness. Its goals include: generating support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthening neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and sending a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The event was a collaboration of several Village entities, including the South Orange Police Department, the South Orange Police Benevolent Association Local #12, the South Orange Fire Department, and the South Orange Rescue Squad. Each will showcase their work during the public safety fair.

And if that wasn't enough, the evening offered a "Dunk a Cop" event, where participants threw softballs at a target. Those who hit the mark, saw Officer Adrian Acevedo plunge into chilly water. Good news for future CHS teams -- or maybe the Mets -- Acevedo was dunked many times!

Enjoy our photos of last night and please add your own to the story or email to: marciaw@patch.com