Cherryville’s First National Night Out a Success
By: Rusty Wise – Wise News Network
Cherryville, NC (WNN) – The first National Night Out event in Cherryville, NC, was a success. Volunteers organized the event at the Cherryville Community Building, 108 S Jacob St., from 5 PM to 8 PM on Tuesday, August 6th, 2024. Initially scheduled in a vacant lot on JC Dellinger Road in Cherryville, the event was moved to the Community Center Building due to threatening inclement weather.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign held nationwide. It promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to create safer and more caring neighborhoods. Cherryville was one of the 136 communities in North Carolina hosting an event in 2024; nationally, it’s in its 41st year.
Tamara Hardin and her newly formed non-profit organization, Fruitful Life Ministries Outreach, organized Cherryville’s event. “I was trying to figure out what we could do for the community, so I reached out to Major Renn and Chief Hunsucker about a national night out, and they said, ‘Tamara, if you spearhead this, we will definitely show up for you,'” stated Hardin.
A large crowd attended the event at the community building, with all the tables and chairs full at one point. Cherryville officials, police, fire, and medical personnel were present to communicate with everyone in attendance. Hot dogs, hamburgers, and baked beans with all the trimmings were served, and Vic Hardin, Tamara’s husband, was the cook in charge.
Food Lion provided the food for the event, and representatives were also present. Cherryville Food Lion Manager Scott Horner stated, “They approached us about tonight’s event, National Night Out, and told us what they were going to do. And we’re glad to be a part of it here to support them. We brought a little bit of food and snacks, and we’re just here to show our support and community and just have a good time with everybody.
Food Lion and the Cherryville Police Department gave out free gifts to all in attendance, including kid’s police goodies, cups, chip clips, and more. The Police Department also had their drone, vests, masks, and other items on display for everyone to view.
Cherryville Police Chief Brandon Hunsucker stated, “That’s what it’s all about, building those relationships and bonding with the people in the community…there’s nothing like the feeling we get as police officers coming in to and being with the community.”
Tamara and her mom promoted the event by walking the neighborhoods and distributing invitations, emails, Facebook posts, and more. “This has been something I’ve been wanting to do for a couple of years now. I can’t thank everyone enough for coming out, especially with the location change and weather. I’m truly shocked and blessed. Thank you,” stated Tamara.
Even though it was Cherryville’s first National Night Out event and the location changed, it was a great night with excellent attendance. It was great to see everyone interacting, smiling, and having a good time. That’s what community is all about.
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