BLAKELY, Pa. — "Well, this is a special night for us every year because we acknowledge our boys in blue. Our Blakely Borough Police Department and those throughout the nation," said Blakely Mayor Jeanette Acciare-Mariani.
Mayor Jeanette Acciare-Mariani is also president of the Blakely Borough Crimewatch, "This year, we have a very special accomplishment," she said.
The Crimewatch introduced a new member to the borough's police department, Gero.
"We donated the K9 to the police department, and I know that he's going to be a great asset," said Mayor Acciare-Mariani.
The borough usually holds a parade every year on National Night Out but decided against it this time to allow officers and firefighters to spend more time with the community.
One resident says the Blakely National Night Out is especially important for her son.
"Yes! He's been a police officer for the past four Halloweens, so I would say yes," said Crystal Stashko, Peckville.
The event had free food, local community resources, and even a helicopter, along with other police equipment for residents to check out while hanging out with Blakely police officers.
"We've always believed that we are one with the community, so it's nice that we have the community support that we have and always have had. Which is amazing," said Blakely Police Chief Guy Salerno.
Mayor Acciare-Mariani says National Night Out is intended to not only showcase what the police department does but to remind people of their humanity.