The A&M-Commerce University Police Department partnered with Commerce Police Department to bring local community members and students its annual National Night Out on Oct. 5.
The event had multiple attractions including a dunk tank, petting zoo, and displays of multiple emergency vehicles. A&M-Commerce sociology professor Dr. William Thompson’s band, Doctor Doctor, also provided live music.
“My kids are having a blast. I bring them here every year” Commerce resident Kristen Ross said. “It’s good family entertainment for free after I get off work.”
A&M-Commerce’s Residence Hall Association was pleased to help with the event this year.
“We brought the bounce house and the popcorn machine, and helped set up. We also served food and drinks” RHA Vice President of Administration and Finance Anusha Goud said. “We’re also doing the petting zoo over there, and we’ll be tearing down afterward. This was a great opportunity for us.”
National Night Out, celebrated all over the country, has been a staple in communities since its inception in 1984 by the Nation Association of Town Watch as a promotion for anti-crime efforts. Also referred to as America’s Night Out Against Crime, the event boasted over 15,500 neighborhoods participating this year alone. One of the program’s goals is to get community members to meet each other and get to know local law enforcement.
“I like getting my kids out to see the police like they’re regular people, so when they see them, they will trust them” Commerce resident Mark Campbell said.
A&M-Commerce students at the event also met campus police officers and participated in the festivities.
“I’d say it was geared more toward families than students, but it was definitely fun” sophomore Brittany Mack said. “The helicopter landing was really cool, the weather is good, and it’s always a great opportunity to meet the emergency personnel and people in the community.”
The night ended with a finale by Doctor Doctor and a thank you to all the sponsors and guests.
“This was just really good” junior Avery Floyd said. “When you take a look at all these people out here, you see nothing but positive energy and community.”