Enhanced Security Measures for Upcoming Burlington County Carnival
Following a recent incident involving unruly teens at a local carnival, the team planning an imminent carnival in Burlington County is keen to reassure the public about the security procedures they have in place. They are committed to creating a secure, enjoyable atmosphere at their upcoming event, which is designed to be a fun-filled family occasion.
Medford Township's Carnival and MusicFest
The Carnival and MusicFest in Medford Township, set to be held by St. Mary of the Lakes, will be fully enclosed with two entry points. A firm stance is being taken on facial coverings - they will not be allowed. Similarly, hooded tops must not be worn up. Screening with handheld devices will be carried out, and all bags and backpacks will be checked thoroughly, in line with the firm commitment to safety expressed by event planners and local law enforcement.
Maintaining a Family-Friendly Atmosphere
"Our goal is to ensure a family-friendly environment where everyone can have a great time," said Captain Jeff Samalonis from the Medford Township Police Department.
These safety measures were first introduced at the carnival last year. "The protocols we established deterred a number of young people who may have been looking to cause trouble," Captain Samalonis noted.
While the safety measures from last year, including the fencing, will be maintained this year, additional procedures will be put in place. This decision was made in response to a recent occurrence at a nearby carnival.
Unfortunate Incident at Maple Shade Youth Football Carnival
Local law enforcement in Maple Shade reports that a large group of teenagers caused a disturbance at the Maple Shade Youth Football Carnival. Two teens have been charged in connection with the event and investigations are still ongoing, with video footage being reviewed.
The organizers had spent the previous year working on improving safety measures, but despite their efforts, issues arose. The carnival had to be shut down for the remainder of the evening and the following day. This event serves as the largest fundraising opportunity for the nonprofit, with Friday and Saturday typically being the busiest nights.
Chelse Walther, the secretary of the Maple Shade Youth Football Board, expressed her disappointment: "It's a significant setback for us."
Despite the loss, Walther expressed gratitude towards local community groups who have made donations to help offset some of the funds lost during the carnival.
Message from the Organizers
In a recent letter to potential attendees, the St. Mary of the Lakes Carnival and MusicFest organizers brought up the Maple Shade incident, stating, "Carnivals are intended to be enjoyable, family-friendly, fundraising events for communities. We have seen what can happen when teenagers attend with intentions other than having fun, eating delicious treats, or playing games. We believe the above measures will prevent any unwanted incidents."
Community Support
Laurel Ballentine, a regular volunteer at the Medford carnival, witnessed the impact of the enhanced safety measures last year and was satisfied with the outcome. "I'm hopeful that it will be a huge success. It raises a lot of money for our church and school," she said.
Following a recent incident involving unruly teens at a local carnival, the team planning an imminent carnival in Burlington County is keen to reassure the public about the security procedures they have in place. They are committed to creating a secure, enjoyable atmosphere at their upcoming event, which is designed to be a fun-filled family occasion.
Medford Township's Carnival and MusicFest
The Carnival and MusicFest in Medford Township, set to be held by St. Mary of the Lakes, will be fully enclosed with two entry points. A firm stance is being taken on facial coverings - they will not be allowed. Similarly, hooded tops must not be worn up. Screening with handheld devices will be carried out, and all bags and backpacks will be checked thoroughly, in line with the firm commitment to safety expressed by event planners and local law enforcement.
Maintaining a Family-Friendly Atmosphere
"Our goal is to ensure a family-friendly environment where everyone can have a great time," said Captain Jeff Samalonis from the Medford Township Police Department.
These safety measures were first introduced at the carnival last year. "The protocols we established deterred a number of young people who may have been looking to cause trouble," Captain Samalonis noted.
While the safety measures from last year, including the fencing, will be maintained this year, additional procedures will be put in place. This decision was made in response to a recent occurrence at a nearby carnival.
Unfortunate Incident at Maple Shade Youth Football Carnival
Local law enforcement in Maple Shade reports that a large group of teenagers caused a disturbance at the Maple Shade Youth Football Carnival. Two teens have been charged in connection with the event and investigations are still ongoing, with video footage being reviewed.
The organizers had spent the previous year working on improving safety measures, but despite their efforts, issues arose. The carnival had to be shut down for the remainder of the evening and the following day. This event serves as the largest fundraising opportunity for the nonprofit, with Friday and Saturday typically being the busiest nights.
Chelse Walther, the secretary of the Maple Shade Youth Football Board, expressed her disappointment: "It's a significant setback for us."
Despite the loss, Walther expressed gratitude towards local community groups who have made donations to help offset some of the funds lost during the carnival.
Message from the Organizers
In a recent letter to potential attendees, the St. Mary of the Lakes Carnival and MusicFest organizers brought up the Maple Shade incident, stating, "Carnivals are intended to be enjoyable, family-friendly, fundraising events for communities. We have seen what can happen when teenagers attend with intentions other than having fun, eating delicious treats, or playing games. We believe the above measures will prevent any unwanted incidents."
Community Support
Laurel Ballentine, a regular volunteer at the Medford carnival, witnessed the impact of the enhanced safety measures last year and was satisfied with the outcome. "I'm hopeful that it will be a huge success. It raises a lot of money for our church and school," she said.