Community safety focus of Tuesday night gathering

Law enforcement officials across the nation have created the National Night Out program to help reduce crime and drug use in communities all over the United States.

McMinnville Police Department will be holding its first National Night Out this Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Farmers Market to join in that effort.

National Night Out, now in its 24th year, is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, and co-sponsored by local agencies and organizations across the nation.

Games, food, entertainment and music are scheduled. Games will include blinko, a dumpster dunking booth, and a DUI experience. Carnival games, face painting and balloons will be available. Music will be provided by the Silver and Gold Band.

The DUI experience will allow participants to experience the effects of driving under the influence by wearing specialized goggles that inhibit depth perception, an effect of impaired driving. The participant is then asked to complete a small course with a go-cart or golf cart without hitting placed obstacles. If they can’t navigate the obstacles, they fail.

Field sobriety tests will also be given by McMinnville Police Department.

‘Its going to be a lot of fun and laughs,’ said Sgt. Mark Mara, who will be one of the officers overseeing the DUI experience. ‘It gives them the experience of driving under the influence. It’s usually a lot of fun and the kids love it.’

The night is geared to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate community support to reduce crime, strengthen neighborhood spirit, build a positive connection between the police and the community, and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The event is free and open to everyone. For more information, contact Capt. Mike Lane at 473-3808.