Photo by William “Bud” Hardy / Neuse News

By Junious Smith III

The tradition of giving law enforcement a chance to interact with the community through fun and food continued throughout the nation Tuesday.

Kinston was one of thousands of cities participating in National Night Out, which was held at Pearson Park. The community-police awareness event started in 1984 with residents putting out vigils on the front porch as a message of camaraderie in neighborhoods, but has grown to community events. According to NATW.org, the first National Night Out involved 400 communities over 23 states, and has grown to more than 16,000 communities since.

Kinston Police Chief Alonzo Jaynes is experiencing his last one before his retirement Sept. 1 and said he always appreciated the event.

“It’s a needed component for the community and it’s a declaration in the fight against crime,” Jaynes said. “We want everyone to have a fun time at the event and it’s something the community has loved.”

KPD has helped organize the event, which came equipped with free food, drinks, music, events and a dunking booth. Officer Robert Williams said the event allows KPD to help create relationships with residents as well.

“We’re trying to build a rapport between law enforcement and the community, and a day like this gives us the opportunity,” Williams said.

North Carolina Highway Patrol 1st. Sgt. Chris Owens said it also helps the community to see officers in an alternative manner.

“It’s a chance to see a different side of law enforcement, and not just us reacting to something,” Owens said. “We have the ability to be with the community, allowing people to approach us and share any questions or concerns.”

The Kinston Fire Department was well-represented and brought its inflatable fire house to teach children safety.

“We’ve had this for about a year and it allows kids to come in for an example of why it’s important for fire safety,” Kinston Fire Department Captain William Barss said. “Instead of them just visualizing, we can help them through stations and in turn, they’ll go home and talk to their parents.”

Several organizations came to Pearson Park as well to provide information about what they represent, including the Kinston-Lenoir County NAACP.

“We wanted to showcase positivity in the community and be a part of local events to how people what the NAACP has to offer,” President Barbara Sutton said.

There were also live performances at National Night Out, highlighted by renowned gospel singer Lessette Kornegay, who said the event is great for the community and bringing everyone together.

 “I thank God for those in the police department, as well as the fire department and EMS,” Kornegay said. “I’m glad everyone was able to come together and appreciate them doing their part to make us safe.”

Kinston-Lenoir County Parks and Recreation Director Corey Povar was at the event and said he loved what it represented.

“I’m a big fan of any community event, and National Night Out really brought the people together,” Povar said.

Zybrial Joseph, 9, said he had a great time as well.

“I liked playing football and drinking soda,” Joseph said. “I would come to this next year.”

 Kinston resident Jaddie Mumford had nothing but positives to say about National Night Out.

“It’s great seeing the kids out here having fun and everyone coming together,” Mumford said.