GRAFTON – It was an opportunity to connect and a way to learn more about town organizations and groups.
And a chance to dunk town officials.
Hundreds of residents young and old stopped by the police station on Providence Road for the annual National Night Out sponsored by the Grafton Police Department.
The weather on Aug. 1 was ideal to wander about, have some free pizza and ice cream and take part in numerous games and giveaways.
“It’s better than expected,” said Police Chief Normand A. Crepeau. “You couldn’t ask for better weather. It’s great to see a crowd celebrating again [after COVID].”
Several service and therapy dogs were on hand for visitors to learn about programs such as Pet Partners. They were also happy to get some ear scratches and belly rubs.
“These are therapy dogs, and we spread joy,” said Clarisse Youmell of Pet Partners, who brought a pair of great Pyrenees dogs, Badger Blue and Ruby.
Magician Steve Charette moved about, presenting classic tricks to folks within the crowd.
Town organizations, including Boy Scout troops 106 and 107, the Girl Scouts, the Grafton Public Library, the Grafton Senior Center and the Willard House and Clock Museum, provided lots of information to passersby.
The town’s Accessibility Advisory Commission provided an interesting display – a Barbie dream house with Barbie in a wheelchair. Visitors, especially children, wondered how Barbie could move from room to room with such narrow doors.
According to the commission’s Kristie Proctor, the idea for the house and wheelchair came about late last week. She added it’s been a great way for youngsters to learn about accessibility.
And then there was the dunk tank, a fundraiser for the police department’s UMass Cancer Walk Team. Town Administrator Evan Brassard and Assistant Town Administrator William Blake were among those who took the plunge … several times.
