Blawnox set to celebrate police, first responders on National Night Out

One of Blawnox Manager Kathy Ulanowicz’s favorite borough calendar days is fast approaching.

It’s not the day after the borough budget is passed or the start of a holiday break.

It’s the yearly celebration of those who serve and protect, as well as rescue and give treatment to residents.

Blawnox’s fifth annual National Night Out is set for 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, in Blawnox Community Park.

“It’s always nice to be able to thank the first responders,” Ulanowicz said.

Activities are organized by the Best of Blawnox (BoB), a nonprofit dedicated to promoting the borough and encourage community engagement. About 200 people are expected to turnout.

The format includes having “ice cream with cops,” a children’s bike helmet giveaway, bicycle raffles and more.

A dog walk is planned shortly before the event. People are encouraged to bring their pets to Lewis Avenue at Fountain Street and walk down the road behind the borough building to the park.

Other details such as having therapy dogs for families in the park have yet to be finalized.

“It’s still in the works right now,” said Katie Specht-Coban, councilwoman and a BoB executive committee member.

“It’s a nice night for the kids to meet the firemen and the police officers, to have the kids see first responders so they feel comfortable when they’re in need and understand that they are here to help. This is a very important event.”

Police Chief Patrick Goodman said he was at the park for last year’s event and is looking forward to its next installment.

“It went good. There was a lot of community support, a lot of activities for everyone,” Goodman said.

“We’ll be there to meet with the public, our residents especially. We’ll have some informational things were giving out. … I think it will be a nice turnout.”

Emergency vehicles are expected to be stationed at the park for families to explore, including Blawnox firetrucks and Parkview EMS ambulances.

Night Out planning usually begins shortly after BoB’s Spring Art Fling ends in June.

Specht-Coban said it takes time to gather volunteers and make sure everyone is on the same page.

Other committee members include Ulanowicz, Ann Petrus and BoB President Diane Casile.

More information about the event will be posted at bestofblawnox.com.

People are encouraged to bring nonperishable items to the event to help support the borough’s food pantry.

The pantry will be open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 26 at the borough building, 376 Freeport Road.

No proof of residency or income is required to receive items.

Most needed donations include crackers, tomato sauce, canned meats, laundry and dish soap as well as toiletries and paper products.