The launch of the 9^th Annual National Night Out is set for 6 p.m., but the line is expected to form much earlier. Members of the public planning on enjoying a free night of swimming, live music, food and prize drawings must enter through Bridgeport Pool. Once inside the pool grounds, they can meander several poolside vendor booths, which will feature information about area health, wellness and civic organizations, as well as sponsoring businesses.

 

Located just next door on the Benedum Civic Center grounds will be participating food vendors, including McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Chick-fil-A, Sweet Frog, Della’s Deli, the Associated Businesses of Bridgeport and Bridgeport Conference Center. Participating vendors are asked to be ready to meet the public at 6 p.m. A table and two chairs will be provided for all registered vendors. 

 

Providing live music will be the Greg Harrison Band and serving as emcee will be Sarah Rowan of Magic 106.5. Bridgeport Police Department has been rounding up donated prizes, all which will be given away tonight via random drawing. Upon entering, attendees will receive tickets for that drawing. Prizes include Beats headphones, an Xbox 360, TV, remote control vehicles and many other electronics, as well as season passes to Bridgeport Pool and Bridgeport High School athletic events.

 

Canine demonstrations will take place and fire and police vehicles will be on display.

 

The event takes place from 6-9 p.m. and intended to familiarize the community with members of law enforcement and emergency services. The event has proven to be quite popular in years past years, drawing as many as 1500 individuals.

 

It’s truly a community effort, said Bridgeport Deputy Police Chief Randy Hartley. The City of Bridgeport, Bridgeport Parks and Recreation, Bridgeport Police and Fire Departments, the FBI and area businesses and organizations all pitch in to make the annual event a success.

 

“It’s a huge night for the police department,” Hartley said. “It’s a chance to meet and greet the residents in the city we serve. A lot of times, we don’t get a chance to talk with folks. This provides the perfect way – and a fun atmosphere – to do that.”