Amelia observes National Night Out

The village of Amelia participated in the 25th annual National Night Out Aug. 5.

The fifth year that the village has celebrated the event, an estimated 300 people came out to enjoy the free food and the camaraderie between the village’s residents, the government, and the police department.

National Night Out is an annual event designed to increase crime and drug prevention awareness, solidify neighborhood spirit and police-citizen partnerships, and to send a very clear message to law breakers that the village is organized and united in fighting back.

“National Night Out is just one of the ways that we are part of the community that we serve,” said Amelia Police Chief Jeffrey Sucher. “Unfortunately, oftentimes the only contact residents have with us is when we are called to perform our law enforcement duties – these days police work is more than just police work.”

The celebration included a parade, a picnic (all the hot dogs were consumed, the chief said), football and basketball games between children and the firefighters/police officers, and a special appearance by WWE wrestler Rory McAllister, who lives in the area.

"Seeing my officers interact with young and old alike shows that we are staying true to our mission of partnering with the public to prevent crime," Sucher said.

Last year, the National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, involved more than 10,000 communities nationwide from all 50 states, U.S. territories, military bases all over the globe, and even some Canadian cities; a total of more than 35 million people.

Sucher said that the village accomplished its goal of hosting a fun and memorable evening at the Spencer Shank Park with this important chance to meet the residents.

"It's all about promoting neighborhood spirit and building police-community partnerships," the chief said. "All in our struggle for a safer village."