34th National Night Out enjoyed by Front Royal residents

Front Royal Police Foundation volunteer Betty Showers gets a hug from a friendly dog on patrol at National Night Out near the Gazebo Tuesday evening. Photos/Norma Jean Shaw

FRONT ROYAL – Historic Downtown was abuzz with activity Tuesday evening as area residents turned out by the dozens to participate in the 34th Annual National Night Out (NNO), a crime and drug prevention event.

National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) and co-sponsored locally by the Front Royal Police Department, is part of over 16,500 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world. In all, over 38.5 million people were expected to participate in National Night Out in 2017.
National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;  generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime efforts; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships and send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Souled Out, a popular regional band, performed for the crowd Tuesday.

Rappahannock Electric Cooperative employees hand out fun and educational items to children and parents at the Tuesday evening event.