to draw thousands
locally
Annual event expected
to draw thousands
locally
By charles w. kim
& Jennifer Kohlhepp
Staff Writers
SOUTH BRUNSWICK — Residents are encouraged to celebrate the 18th Annual National Night Out on Aug. 5.
The Take a Bite Out of Crime Night, created for the police and the community to come together to take a stand against crime, will take place from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Woodlot Park on New Road.
"Every year this event highlights the tremendous relationship between the South Brunswick Police Department and the community," Police Chief Michael D. Paquette said.
This year it is estimated that more than 2,000 people will attend the event in South Brunswick, with national projections calling for 34 million people to participate nationwide.
There are many events scheduled for the night in South Brunswick, including a tug of war competition between the police and youngsters, and demonstrations in traffic safety and crime scene evidence collection.
A military helicopter, fire trucks, rescue vehicles and police cars will be on display. There will be face painting, free food, soda, and ice cream, as well as rides, games and prizes.
WCTC 1450 AM will be broadcasting live from the event.
Former New York Giant Brad Benson, who played on the 1986 Super Bowl championship team, will also attend the event.
The star of the show, McGruff the Crime Dog, will meet and greet the youngsters.
"Last year our efforts were recognized as tops in the state," Paquette said. "This is truly a night of family fun you don’t want to miss."
The South Brunswick National Night Out program has been recognized on the national level during the past 18 years for its outstanding level of participation.
The North Brunswick Department of Public Safety will also sponsor National Night Out on Aug. 5 from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the North Brunswick Government and Community Complex, located at 710 Hermann Road.
The evening’s activities will include public safety tips, public safety tours, child photo identification kits, giveaways, food, refreshments, and live entertainment.
There is no admission fee, and all members of the public are invited to attend.