Community Unites for Safety and Fun at National Night Out

The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office hosted its annual National Night Out on October 7, 2023, gathering families and local agencies in the Inverness Depot District and Liberty Park for an evening dedicated to community connection, safety awareness, and family fun. Over 45 community partners participated, offering resources and activities designed to foster unity and promote safety among residents.

Families flocked to the event, where volunteers served hundreds of free hot dogs. Notable contributions came from the Citrus County Education Foundation, with volunteers from both Publix and HCA Florida Healthcare assisting in the festivities. Publix volunteer Sally Shell welcomed attendees at the check-in table, setting a friendly tone for the evening.

Engaging Activities and Community Resources

Interactive displays captivated attendees, showcasing the Sheriff’s Office helicopter unit, a Bearcat armored vehicle, and a bomb truck. The Traffic Unit entertained crowds with motorcycle demonstrations and “drunk goggles” field sobriety tests, while the Florida Highway Patrol and Bayflite air ambulance exhibited their vehicles and equipment.

Deputy recruits Tristin Corlew and Joshua Flanary joined Maj. Thomas Bosco and Sarah Huggett, the Advanced and Specialized Coordinator for the Citrus County Public Safety Training Center at Withlacoochee Technical College. Huggett shared insights about how the center supports law enforcement development through various training programs.

The CCSO Explorer Post 331 engaged with teens and parents, explaining how the youth program provides hands-on experience through community service. This initiative highlighted the importance of youth involvement in public safety.

Celebrating Community Spirit and Achievement

The event featured a seasonal flair as part of Cootertober, Inverness’s month-long celebration. The Purpose and Promise Learning Academy showcased their award-winning “Best Fall Themed Lamp Post” display, with families Brogan and Kari Cunningham, along with Linda and Alex Sosnicki, proudly posing for photos with young helpers Kora, 3, Giuliana, 4, and Kannon, 2.

Many families participated in the festivities, including Bobbie and Samantha Vanderbilt, who brought their six children to enjoy the activities. Volunteer Rosey Gammell also shared the experience with her grandchildren, who were excited to meet pilot John Gorman and see the CCSO helicopter up close.

Ashley Davisson and Olivia Mission were pleasantly surprised when their toddlers, Dean and Gavin, eagerly explored the event, racing towards the helicopter display.

As the evening progressed, attendees mingled with Sheriff’s Office leadership, including Sheriff David Vincent and David DeCarlo, Executive Director of the Office of Community Engagement and Transparency. The event underscored the collaboration among local agencies, with organizations such as CASA (Citrus Abuse Shelter Association), the Anti-Drug Coalition of Citrus County, and the YMCA of Inverness providing valuable resources and information.

As the sun set over Liberty Park, laughter filled the air while families waved goodbye to deputies, marking a successful night dedicated to partnership, safety, and community spirit.