The August 1 Bluffton-Pandora celebration of National Night Out (NNO) had an excellent turnout for an evening of free summer fun. In and around the Bluffton Community Pool, 205 Snider Rd., the Bluffton and Pandora police departments coordinated a bounty of food, drinks and activities. The Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce coordinated fireworks and their funding by member donors.

This was the ninth annual event, which has the Icon wondering just how many children remember life before National Night Out? Coordinator Sergeant Matt Oglesbee said the 1,500 hot dogs--prepared by village council members--disappeared in record time. By comparison, the first NNO event held in Bluffton was estimated to have some 500 guests.

Sgt. Oglesbee expressed his thanks for the generous support of the many business and individual donors who make this event possible. No tax dollars are used for National Night Out. He also noted that with 2024 being the 10th anniversary of the event, it's never to early to show your support of the first responder-community get together.

Council member Mitch Kinglsey offered the observation that he couldn't think of another community event that provided the same kind of relaxing, sociable atmosphere.

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Weather is always the great unknown factor for NNO organizers. The 2023 event had perfect weather for splashing, swimming, sliding and diving in the pool--with a DJ soundtrack. Infatable games included bounce houses, a soccer dart board and basketball toss. Children were invited to take a seat in police cruisers, fire trucks and EMS units. Rides were provided on antique fire trucks. All kinds of edutainment was provided at the Johnny Appleseed Metopolitan Park District mobile programming van and mini-golf was enjoyed thanks to M&R Plumbing & Heating.

These activities had participants hungry and thirsty for hot dogs, popcorn, chips, snow cones, sodas, water and root beer floats.

Thanks to the lure of fireworks, this isn't a night when folks go home early, even though it's a week night. The display began with bursts of red, then white, then blue sparkles in honor of the Fire, EMS and Police departments. Viewers were spread out across the grassy area between Bluffton family recreation area and the waters of the Buckeye, as well as in the pool area.

For anyone wondering if the attractions were worth the hassle of getting out of the parking areas at the pool, BFR and Bluffton Community (formerly The Centre), the traffic flow was smooth and courteous.