BPD and BFD gear up for National Night Out

It's not too often you get to see the chief of police and a village trustee wearing aprons, wielding tongs and handing out hot dogs, but that is exactly what attendees will see if they attend the National Night Out - that and much more.

Police Chief Dan Varrenti and Trustee Carrie Maziarz said they planned on manning the grill for the village's annual event.

'This national initiative offers the youth in the community an opportunity to bring their parents out for an evening with their emergency responders," Chris Martin, public information officer for the fire department said. "In an informal setting, the emergency personnel are able to meet and greet people in their community, and provide safety tips for the year 'round."

The police will be offering Child ID kits, Child Safety kits and a "Watch Your Car" program. The fire department will have the NYS Fire Safety Trailer there and offer tips on Family Emergency Plans. All three agencies will have vehicles there for the children to view and tour and the police department will have its annual awards program as part of the event for the evening. There will be a police obstacle bounce course and New York State Police helicopter will be on site. Free hot dogs, chips and soda will be served.

"The event gains more energy every year," Varrenti said.

During the July 17 village board meeting, Varrenti presented a $500 check to the village treasurer that the department received from Kelly Lewis of State Farm to help defray the costs of the event. "She has been a big supporter of the programs the department offers," Varrenti said.

The event takes place Tuesday, August 1 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Brockport Area Vets Club, 222 West Avenue, Brockport.

July 23, 2006