By Glenn Rolfe

DAGSBORO — Persistent rain fell outside the Dagsboro Volunteer Fire Department on Tuesday. However, inside the station, fun and community togetherness reigned.

Though chased indoors by inclement weather, Dagsboro’s third annual National Night Out went on, drawing a steady stream of youngsters and adults.

Numerous local businesses joined municipal and state police and other organizations for the event, which featured free goodies and giveaways for attendees, along with various awards for door prize winners.

Free hot dogs, chips and water were also available.

Dagsboro Mayor Brian Baull, who set the mood with DJ entertainment and emceed the evening’s festivities, said organizers were pleased with the turnout, given the weather factor. He estimated about 300 people showed.

“I think it all went great. Obviously, we were expecting and hoping for more people. But we’re tickled to death for the people that showed up,” Mayor Baull said.

“We could have had some more people, but obviously, the rain is going to present a challenge for some people, which we certainly understand. But we’re very appreciative of the folks that came out, kind of got back in the community spirit and got back out — friends talking to friends and maybe meeting some new people they haven’t met before. It was kind of nice to start to feel a little bit of ‘back to normal,’ if you will, for a while.”

Night Out also served as a nonperishable food drive to support those in need.

The gathering was sponsored by the Dagsboro Police Department, the Dagsboro Business Alliance, the town of Dagsboro and the fire department, which is also promoting Fire Prevention Month.

The Wet weather did alter the original lineup, canceling a visit by the Delaware State Police helicopter Trooper 2 and demonstrations by a K-9 unit and town firefighters.

Near the conclusion, drawings were held for two bikes and bicycle helmets, provided by the Dagsboro Police Department. The winners were Kylie Cleary Wilson and Colton West.

Seaford Night Out

The Seaford Community Night Out Against Crime & Drugs will be held Thursday.

It runs 5-8 at the Seaford Police Department and the Western Sussex Boys & Girls Club on Virginia Avenue.

There will be free food, live entertainment, numerous giveaways and a chance to win boys’ and girls’ bicycles.

Scheduled demonstrations include Delaware State Police K-9 officers and its Trooper 2 helicopter.

The mission of the event in Seaford is to build enhancing relationships and a stronger, prosperous community.