WHERE: Burry Park, 131 Cargill Way, Hartsville, SC
WHEN: Friday, Aug. 9, 6:30 p.m., with free showing of “Rise of the Guardians” beginning at dusk
Hartsville’s National Night Out 2013, “Heroes’ Night Out,’ will begin Friday, Aug. 9 at 6:30 p.m. in Burry Park, 131 Cargill Way. The evening will feature a wide variety of free activities, free food and a free outdoor movie showing of the movie “Rise of the Guardians,” beginning at dusk. In keeping with the event’s theme, children who come are invited to dress up as their favorite hero for a chance to win prizes, including season passes to the recently opened Piratesville Splash Pad.
National Night Out, which is celebrating three decades of nationwide observance this year, is designed to connect residents with the many agencies working to protect their communities, all while raising awareness of crime and drug prevention, as well as enhancing neighborhood pride.
“The Hartsville Police Department strives to connect with our residents, building relationships and trust, and ultimately building a stronger community. That focus is always on display during National Night Out,” said Police Chief James Hudson. “We’re calling this year’s event ‘Heroes’ Night Out,’ because anyone who cares about their neighborhood and the future of their community enough to help build these ties with us is a hero. I hope everyone can make it out and join us for a good time.”
Participating agencies this Friday will include the Hartsville and Society Hill police departments, the Hartsville Fire Department and the Darlington County Sheriff’s Office, who will bring horses from the Mounted Unit and bloodhounds. Representatives from Darlington County EMS, the Pee Dee Coalition/Durant Children’s Center and the Army National Guard will also appear. Free blood pressure screenings will be available, courtesy of CareSouth Carolina.
Participants will be treated to a moon bounce and giant slide, a gaming trailer provided by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources and get a chance to meet Hartsville High School athletes. The firefighters of the Hartsville Fire Department will serve up free hot dogs and other refreshments for all attendants, with food donated by Bi-Lo and Piggly Wiggly, and drinks donated by Pepsi.
Deejay Trey Nickelson of Glory 985 will provide entertainment for the event, along with the Sonoco Men’s Club. Those coming out for the evening should be sure to bring blankets and chairs for the movie showing, beginning around dusk, at 8:30 p.m. or later. “Rise of the Guardians” is rated PG for thematic elements and some mild scary action.
In case of rain, the event will be moved to the Coach T.B. Thomas Sports Center at Byerly Park, located at 701 W. Washington St.
