by Hanna Singh
Lincoln Parish residents enjoyed an evening of fellowship, fun, and connection at the National Night Out event, hosted at Zion Traveler Baptist Church in Ruston Tuesday.
The event aimed to unite the community with the local law enforcement. Officers from the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, Ruston Police Department, and other first responders joined attendees for a night filled with games, food, and entertainment.
Chief Deputy Landon Hunt of the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office shared how the event served the community and provided an opportunity for growth.
“The goal was for the officers and the kids to have the opportunity to hang out and get to know each other,” Hunt said. “For us to be able to build those relationships with those kids at a young age gives us a good foundation. We were there serving pizza and hot dogs, having lots of fun things for them to do. It was just good for them to see us serving them and being there for them.”
This year’s event marked the first National Night Out in the parish since the COVID-19 pandemic. Open to the public, the event was hosted to foster a positive relationship between first responders, law enforcement and the local community. It also provided education, safety awareness, and an opportunity for resident engagement.
Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Iris Winston highlighted the importance of bringing this event back to the community.
“This is such a fun event and it’s such a great way to bring the police and the community together,” Winston said. “It’s so the community knows that the police are here for them and that we are just regular people, just like them. It’s so important to bridge the gap between the police and the community.”
Zion Traveler Baptist Church played an important role in hosting the evening. Pastor Maurice White explained how the event aligned with Mayor Walker’s initiative to improve the town.
“It was a great turnout from the community. Our church really enjoyed the National Night Out,” White said. “It was wonderful to see our community connect with the law enforcement. It was just a good way to build a connection between them while also helping to decrease crime.
“We’re thankful that we have all of the first responders and that they were willing to come out and be a part of the event. It’s a part of Mayor Walker’s vision for real change in Ruston.”
The night featured more than 22 community booths distributing educational materials and giveaways. Attendees enjoyed a 3-on-3 basketball game where local officers played with neighborhood kids, as well as a dunk tank with the Sheriff.
Local businesses also donated many door prizes that were drawn throughout the night. Musical performances included local favorite Big Al Cherry and members of the Grambling State University Band.
The National Night Out served as an opportunity for law enforcement and local businesses to come together in support of community unity. By giving first responders the opportunity to connect with the residents in a fun and supportive environment, the event paved the way for positive change in the community.
