National Night Out

SSG Matthew Kruse and SFC Dwight Belcher, from the Joplin Army recruiter's office, demonstrate the "America's Army" simulator game while Scott Barksdale watches intently nearby. Belcher, an 18-year veteran of the U.S. Army, is from Nevada. --Lynn A. Wade/Daily Mail

Hundreds turned out for National Night Out, sponsored by the city of Nevada, KCP&L and the Nevada/Vernon County Area Chamber of Commerce, to take advantage of a free evening at the pool.

Outside the pool area, few paused to collect information and giveaways from area law enforcement agencies and others, but KCP&L's free hot dogs and drinks were popular. With evening temperatures still in the 90s on one of the hottest days so far this summer, residents headed quickly to the water.

But meanwhile, dozens of balloons, hot dogs, goodie bags, informational brochures and bottles of water were handed out as residents milled about.

On the suggestion that such an event might be more palatable in June, event participants noted that it's a national event, and northern states with cooler weather also are participating.

The Nevada event was part of the 25th annual National Night Out celebration, which is expected to involve more than 35 million people in approximately 11,000 communities across the United States. National Night Out is designed to increase crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and let criminals know that citizens in their neighborhoods are fighting back.

Tyson Leo, 4, plays in a fountain at Walton Aquatic Center, during National Night Out, Tuesday evening.

And, as Nevada Police Officer Mike Burger pointed out, "It gives the kids something to do."

Kathi Wysong, former executive director of the Nevada/Vernon County Chamber of Commerce said, "Always a favorite end-of-summer event, National Night Out brings families and agencies together. We create a fun atmosphere with a powerful message that is heard across the nation -- Say goodbye to crime and drugs! There's no room for them here."

Molly Koutz takes a bag of goodies and information from Nevada Police Officer Mike Burger. Exhibits from the police department, the Nevada Fire Department, KCP&L, the Missouri Conservation Department, the Vernon County Sheriff's Office, the Vernon County Senior Center, SADD, US Bank and others lined the parking lot and pool area during the event.