Lakes Region police look forward to meeting community members at National Night Out

Community policing is all about building relationships with residents.

It’s why events like National Night Out are so important. Scheduled for Aug. 4 this year, the event’s intention is to connect first responders with the community to forge positive relationships and understanding. In the Lakes Region, there are several upcoming National Nights Out coming up.

The Laconia Police Department will host its National Night Out at Smith Field at Opechee Park, from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 3. 

There will be a motorcycle and drone demonstration, free food, a resource fair and face painting. It’s an opportunity for city residents to meet their first responders at a family-friendly event.

“We look forward to seeing everyone there and celebrating what makes our community so special,” reads a Facebook post by the Laconia Police Department.

There will be lots of partner agencies at Gilford National Night Out, slated for 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at Gilford Village Field. Attendees can interact with first responders and members of Gilford PD, Gilford Fire Rescue, Belknap Regional Special Operations Group, Marine Patrol and Gilford Public Works.

“We love doing this every year,” said Gilford Det. Alyssa MacRae. “We have some of our returning agencies. I believe the State Police are going to try to come by. DPW will be here.”

A demonstration with K-9 Hootie will be held by Officer Connor Johnson. Guests can jam out to live music and enjoy hamburgers and hot dogs, donated by Shaw’s, and ice cream, supplied by Laconia’s Happy Cow Ice Cream Shop.

In nearby Belmont, National Night Out will take place at 5 p.m., on Wednesday, Aug. 5, at the Belmont Mill.

“This is such a great program for us,” said Belmont Capt. Evan Boulanger. “It brings the police and first responders together with our community. This gives us a chance to interact, show our gear, put on demonstrations, and be part of the community in a positive way.”

The event will feature a fire department extraction demonstration, touch-a-truck, and games and activities for all ages. The event is free.

The night will conclude with a K-9 presentation by the Alton Police Department and K-9 Ripp.

Officer Syntia Somogyi "has a lot of vendors coming in. Lots of police equipment,” Boulanger said. “We’re gonna be finishing the evening with a canine demonstration.”

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Katlyn Proctor can be reached at katlyn@laconiadailysun.com or by calling 603-524-0150.