When people come to National Night Out in Hellam, they have the chance to interact with police officers in a positive manner, said Courtney Bullman, police administrator.

"We hold this event to encourage residents to socialize with their neighbors and support local businesses and law enforcement officials in a fun, relaxed environment," she stated. "This event bolsters the residents' familiarity with our officers and helps build trust and partnerships between our communities."

National Night Out will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Hellam Township building, 44 Walnut Springs Road.

The event will feature food trucks, music, giveaways, face painting, a bounce house and more.

"We will have Himes Family food truck, also known as Tank's Taters, and Bayou Snow Cone Truck," Bullman remarked. "We will also be providing free hot dogs, chips and popcorn from the township."

Critter Connections, run by Mike Buleza, will present an animal show. "He provides a hands-on program, featuring a rabbit, guinea pig, a variety of snakes, a bearded dragon, geckos, turtles, tortoises and insects," Bullman shared.

Hellam Police Department Officer Mike Carpenter will offer a demonstration with his K9 partner, Cerberus.

Held annually on the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out began in 1984 as a way to bring police and community members together. The first year, 2.5 million people across 400 communities in 23 states participated in the event. Over the years, the celebration has grown to encompass 38 million people in 17,000 communities throughout the United States.

"I would say that the event has a little something for everyone," Bullman said, encouraging people to come to the Hellam festivities. "There's free food and fun for the kids. ... It's a fun way to spend the evening, and it supports our boys in blue."

For more information on the National Night Out program, visit https://natw.org.