Night Out Against Crime events scheduled locally

National Night Out is an annual event meant to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances to help the community enhance their relationship with law enforcement.
This year, St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office will be hosting its event 6-9 p.m. Tuesday at the Bayou Vista Civic Center, 1333 Bellview St.
Patterson Police Department will be hosting its event 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Patterson City Hall, 1314 Main St.
Morgan City Police Department with Doric Lodge No. 87 in Morgan City will be hosting its event 2-5 p.m. Oct. 5 at Lawrence Park in Morgan City.
All events are free for the public.
Morgan City Police Department started its National Night Out event in 2013.
“It was actually a joint effort with the Doric Lodge No. 87, the local Masonic lodge in downtown Morgan City,” Police Chief James F. Blair said in an interview. “They reached out to us and wanted to collaborate on a National Night Out because the lodge wanted to get out and do some community events and they felt that this was a worthy event that was needed here.
“At that particular time, around 2013-14, the relationship with the public and law enforcement was strained nationwide, and (National Night Out) would help create bonds with the community. The Police Department and community benefited from their efforts and generosity, so we have partnered with them ever since.”
Morgan City Police Department’s event will have musical guests Toni O of “Blue Eyed Soul Revue” and Scott Metrejean of “South 70.” Hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks will be available at no cost.
Children from all ages will be able to compete in the annual “BackYard Bass” challenge where officers will teach them how to tie knots and cast and they can compete in a relay to win a fishing pole. There also will be fun jumps available.
Door prizes for adults and bicycles for children will be given away. Many organizations that work to make the community safe will be on hand to meet and greet the public.
St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office’s event will have music from DJ Mac Bruno. Hot dogs, chili, chips, popcorn, sno-cones, candy and drinks will be available at no cost.
Fun jumps will be available for the children as well as treat bags with candy. Children’s bicycles will be given away.
There will be demonstrations from K-9 officers. There also will be a therapy dog. Demonstrations will also be performed with drones.
Gulf State wrestlers will be in attendance for a meet and greet. Many organizations, such as local fire departments, wildlife and fisheries, divers, representatives from Chez Hope and Claire House and many more, will be on hand to meet and greet the public as well.
Patterson Police Department’s event will have music. Hamburgers and drinks will be available for no charge. Children’s fun jumps will also be available.