Christine Peterson, of Miami Township, helps her son, Logan, onto a motorcycle during Milford Miami Township National Night Out Aug. 5. From left are Logan, Christine, Ava Hittle and Andrea Stover with Miami Township Police Explorers.

Christine Peterson, of Miami Township, helps her son, Logan, onto a motorcycle during Milford Miami Township National Night Out Aug. 5. From left are Logan, Christine, Ava Hittle and Andrea Stover with Miami Township Police Explorers.
By Kristin Rover
Sun staff

National Night Out, a nation-wide event held to encourage communities to come together and prevent crime, was held in villages and townships throughout Clermont County Aug. 5.

The Milford Miami Township National Night Out, held in the Target parking lot in Milford, drew a huge crowd.

“It was a very successful event,” Milford Police Chief Jamey Mills said.

Kara Eveslage, of Miami Township, said this is the first time she has come to National Night Out. She said there were a ton of things for her and her daughter, Riley, to do and she has enjoyed the event.

“We like these types of things,” Eveslage said. “It gets the kids used to the officials and they feel like they can approach them.”

Lisa Arnold, of Milford, brought her son Zachary to the event and said she has been coming for several years.

“I love it,” Arnold said about National Night Out.

She said she likes that Zachary can get to know the police, fire and EMS workers in the community.

“I think it’s very important,” she said.

Ava Hittle and Andrea Stover, with Miami Township Police Explorers, said they enjoyed participating in the event.

“I think it’s great that everyone can meet the police officers,” Hittle said.

Mills said they were happy with the turnout at National Night Out and also happy with the individuals and businesses who participated and helped with the event.

The Milford Miami Township event included several opportunities to meet and speak with law enforcement, fire and EMS personnel, activities for children, refreshments, a concert by the Most Wanted police band, and more.

Mills thanked all of the sponsors of the event including Target, ADT Security, local businesses and restaurants, Milford Miami Township Chamber of Commerce, and others.

“It goes without saying that it wouldn’t have been possible without our sponsors,” Mills said.

National Night Out was also held in Amelia and Union Township this year.

For more information about National Night Out visit http://natw.org/.