The Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office invites all residents to the annual National Night Out event, a community event dedicated to fostering strong police-community partnerships. This year’s event will be held on Tuesday, October 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Fincastle Baptist Church, 7330 Roanoke Road, Fincastle.
“National Night Out is more than just an evening of fun; it’s an opportunity for our community to come together, meet local law enforcement officers, and reinforce our collaborative commitment to keeping Botetourt County safe,” said Botetourt Sheriff Matthew Ward.
The event will feature activities for all ages, including live music by the renowned bluegrass band Mountain Highway, food, fireworks, and a K-9 demonstration by the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office. Fun activities for children will include a climbing wall, bounce house, and the chance to explore a fire truck and police vehicles up close.
In addition to the many activities planned, attendees will have the opportunity to view displays of advanced law enforcement equipment. Exhibits from multiple agencies, including the Virginia State Police, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, U.S. Forest Service, and the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office of tactical gear, specialized vehicles, and the latest technology used in public safety operations. It’s a chance for the community to see firsthand the tools that help keep the county safe and to learn how different agencies collaborate to ensure a safer Botetourt.
“This event is one of the bigger highlights of the year for our team,” said Sheriff Ward. “It’s a chance for us to connect with our community on a personal level. We encourage everyone to come out, meet their neighbors, and learn more about the important work our deputies and first responders do every day to keep Botetourt safe.”
Music will be performed by Mountain Highway. Hailing from Gatlinburg, Tenn., Mountain Highway is a musical family group performing bluegrass, country, and gospel music originally made famous by icons like Bill Monroe, the Carter Family, Ralph Stanley, and a few outliers like the Eagles and Linda Ronstadt. Two sisters and a family friend play banjo, guitar, and mandolin as they sing three-part harmony, while the sisters’ dad plays an electric upright bass.
Performing weekly as the host band for The Smoky Mountain Bluegrass Review at The Memories Theater in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., Mountain Highway also travels to play at popular venues and notable bookings across the country from New York to Texas.
Sheriff Ward invites everyone to bring their families, friends, and neighbors to this free event. “Whether you’re new to the area or have lived here your entire life, National Night Out is the perfect opportunity to connect with others and celebrate the spirit of community,” he said.
For more information, contact Andrea Mundy at amundy@botetourtva.gov or 540-928-2233.
~ Fincastle Herald staff report
