Effingham "Night Out" Event a Success

On a perfect evening, weather-wise, the Effingham Police Department hosted the first-ever National Night Out in the community Tuesday.

Police Chief Jeff Fuesting said the event was designed to promote positive relationships with local police, as well as an opportunity for people to stand and talk with their fellow residents.

City firefighters also took part in the event, as did Effingham Public Library (the site for the event), Walmart, Springfield Clinic, and Homewood Grill. The Kohl's Cares staffers also helped at the event.

There were plenty of prizes, lots of pulled pork and chips, ice cream and opportunities for networking less than that seen in the office and more like that experienced across the backyard fence.

National Nights Out typically are held in August, but the stifling weather here this year led to the decision to wait until September for the event.