MATAWAN – The Matawan Police Department will sponsor its annual National Night Out event from 6-9 p.m. on Aug. 7 in Terhune Park.
The park is located at the corner of Main and South streets.
“National Night Out is an annual community building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships with the goal of making our neighborhoods safer,” Matawan Police Officer Eric Andersen said. “(The night) provides the community with a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances while bringing awareness to crime prevention.
“Since its inception in 1984, National Night Out has evolved from porch-light vigils with neighborhood watch groups to large-scale celebrations across communities throughout the country. It has even extended to U.S. territories and military bases worldwide,” Andersen said.
Andersen said the annual gathering of police officers and residents is one of the largest police events that is held in the 2-square-mile community.
“This year’s exciting event will feature live music by the high-energy party band, Mission Dance,” Andersen said. “Two food trucks will be on hand. Matawan’s finest will be giving out cotton candy, popcorn and Ralph’s Italian Ices. Residents won’t want to miss the opportunity to participate in the ‘Dunk a Cop’ dunk tank.
“To recognize our department as local superheroes, this year’s event is superhero themed. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite superhero, with prizes to be given out for the best costumes,” he said.
National Night Out is free to attend and signifies an ongoing effort to establish ties between the community and law enforcement, Andersen said.
Link: https://www.securitychoice.com/wp-content/national-night-out/index.html