The residents of Marion County came out in full force during the first annual Marion County Public Safety Night Out Tuesday evening to show their appreciation for the men and women who work each day to make Marion County a safe place to live and work.

Marion County Emergency Management, the Knoxville Hy-Vee, and KNIA/KRLS hosted the event, which featured displays from different agencies throughout the county and a free will donation dinner provided by the Knoxville Hy-Vee. Hy-Vee Store Manager Brett Shelman tells KNIA/KRLS News to recognize 80 years in Knoxville, Hy-Vee is making the investment for 80 more and events like the one Tuesday, which is what he says Hy-Vee needs to do to help out.

Marion County Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Anderson tells KNIA/KRLS News it is beyond his ability to put words to how the evening went. Anderson says he’s thankful for everyone that came out, all the first responders, Hy-Vee and KNIA/KRLS for helping to host the event which “turned out to be a homerun.”

Over 500 residents attended the event which also featured the KNIA/KRLS Lil Big Red Radio playing music, making announcements and giving away prizes.