Whether it's through a missing bicycle or a case of identity theft, Lampasas Police Department officials said they look forward to continued public service with the community as everyone works together to take a bite out of crime.

To build that relationship with the community, local officials are planning the fourth National Night Out event on Tuesday from 6-9 p.m. at the H-E-B parking lot.

In its 26th year nationally, NNO aims to unify local law enforcement and the public in taking a stand against crime in their neighborhoods.

Lampasas Police Chief Tim Angermann and Assistant Chief Sammy Bailey said they have long realized the benefits of National Night Out, and the idea of having a program locally appeals to the sense of enhancing the community spirit.

"National Night Out events are held in neighborhoods and towns all over the country," said Angermann. "Many larger cities are able to have organized block parties, but being the small town that we are, it didn't seem fair to focus all our efforts on just one neighborhood.

"We wanted to have a central place where we can all come together to celebrate our community, our city and our county."

Angermann has met or contacted safety officials in every city in the county, and representatives from all facets of public service are expected to attend NNO so they can meet and greet residents.

Officials will include those from police departments, fire departments, ambulance services, game wardens, Department of Public Safety, constables, justices of the peace, district attorney, adult and juvenile probation staff, Texas Rangers and others.

"We had a good response to last year's event," said the chief. "NNO is a place where neighbors can come together to share comments, complaints, compliments and thanks, and to ask questions.

"You can get to know your public safety officials, tell us what problems you are having and what we can do to make Lampasas a safer place to live. That's our goal. We want everyone to be happy to live in our community and to feel safe every day. And we want them to say no to crime and drugs."

Ms. Bailey said NNO was designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in local anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, and to send a message to criminals that "Lampasas County is organized and fighting back."

The veteran law official said NNO encourages residents to get involved and know their neighbors. "It encourages residents to make crime prevention a part of their neighborhood," she said.

H-E-B has donated the use of its parking lot and will provide hot dogs, chips and drinks at no charge to those in attendance. Live music also will be offered.

Store Director Ryan Wilson said he is glad the grocery store is involved in the community event once again, said Angermann.

Tables will be set with lots of giveaways featuring information on Neighborhood Crime Watch, fingerprinting kits for youngsters, city and county information, 911 handouts, police trading cards, coloring books and stickers for kids. Visitors can explore patrol cars, ambulances, fire trucks, deputy vehicles and motorcycles that will be on display.

"If you have a specific question about wildlife or want to know about a particular law; if you want to ask about code enforcement, or visit with a fire marshal; if there is a concern about identity theft or traffic laws, this is the time. They will all be on hand to visit with the public and to hear your concerns and suggestions," said Angermann.

NNO also offers kids the chance to get to know officials firsthand, said Ms. Bailey. "We want them to know they can find help if they need it, and we want kids to trust us and not be afraid to ask for help. Since we are a growing community, that makes it even more important that kids know where they can turn for help."

Both the chief and assistant chief hope the crowds turn out to support the fourth National Night Out. "This is a perfect time for us to meet our friends and neighbors. We look forward to visiting and meeting with a lot of folks during this event. Bring a lawn chair and join us."

The event

Where

Lampasas HEB

parking lot

When

Tuesday, 6-9 p.m.

Activities

Visits with law enforcement officials, fingerprinting, free food, vehicle displays, musical entertainment and more