Brockport observes National Night Out August 3

On August 3, citizens across America are asked to send a powerful message about neighborhood unity, awareness, safety and police-community partnerships when they participate in the National Night Out. And for the second year, the community is invited to Brockport's event, hosted by the Brockport Police Department.

Brockport Police Sergeant Mark Cuzzupoli said that the event has been going on nationwide for about 20 years. "The event was designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and generate support for and participation in local anti-crime programs," he said.

The evening's activities feature a bike rodeo with an obstacle course where children will learn bicycle safety and view a demonstration by Brockport Police Bicycle Patrol officers. In addition to the many activities, there will be a drug recognition presentation that will help arm parents with the knowledge to identify illegal drugs and possible warning signs of drug abuse.

Speaking at the July 19 village board meeting, Trustee Carrie Maziarz credited the event's success to Cuzzupoli.

Last year's event, although quite rainy, drew more than 200 people and Police Chief Dan Varrenti is hoping this year will be even bigger. Toward that end, the officers are going door-to-door in an attempt to personally invite all residents to attend the event. "The success of this event truly lies with Sergeant Cuzzupoli," he said. "He is as dedicated and hard working as they come."

National Night Out really demonstrates the commitment of the village police department to the community, Mayor Josephine Matela said. "The officers put a lot of time and effort into promoting and educating the community on the dangers of drugs," she said. "It's wonderful that we are able to provide this for the community and I hope everyone will come out that night."

Varrenti and Cuzzupoli also are hoping that youth who attended the department's bike auction will take the time to fix up their newly purchased bicycles and participate in the rodeo. The bike auction was held July 25 in an effort to get rid of unclaimed bicycles that have been sitting in the police department basement. The auction offered youth the chance to bid on bikes with starting bids of a quarter.

Representatives from the village's neighborhood watch teams, Explorers, police, fire, ambulance, the Walking-Biking Action Group and SPARTAC members will be on hand to talk with participants at the night's event. "This will help to strengthen neighborhood spirit and helps introduce people to one another ... it helps build trust," Varrenti said. "This is a night dedicated to building a safer, more caring community."

National Night Out will be held at the A.D. Oliver Middle School from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. There will be free pizza, chips and soda and glow lights offered.