Tuesday, October 15, 2024
LAKE WORTH — On Oct. 1, Lake Worth Police Department hosted its annual National Night Out in the Lake Worth Multi-Purpose building parking lot, drawing support from the community.
National Night Out is an annual campaign that aims to create strong relationships between communities and law enforcement. Nationally, National Night Out is held the first Tuesday in August, but in Texas, it is typically held the first Tuesday of October.
Lake Worth Chief of Police J.T. Manoushagian thanked citizens for overwhelming support and for allowing the police department to reach the community.
“Being a part of the community is vitally important to our department’s identity,” Chief Manoushagian said. “Events like National Night Out provide us with a unique opportunity to meet the community where they are at, right in the heart of their neighborhood. We are thankful for the overwhelming support of the Lake Worth community.”
Lake Worth City Manager Stacey Almond said this event is a great reminder to build community and strengthen trust.
"National Night Out is more than just a community event,” Almond said. “It's a powerful reminder that when we come together, we strengthen our neighborhoods, build trust and foster lasting connections. It's a night to celebrate safety, unity and the spirit of the Lake Worth community.”
Lake Worth National Night Out was held in the multi-purpose building parking lot. Typically, the event is held at the Lake Worth City Park East, but due to construction, it was moved at the last minute; it was still a successful event.
Lake Worth PD starts planning for the event six months in advance. All law enforcement, including all first responders, were in attendance as well as all city council members. School board members, Lake Worth High School band, varsity cheerleaders and middle school cheerleaders were present. The Lake Worth High School band kicked off the event with the varsity cheerleaders performing alongside.
LWISD Communications Coordinator Noah Ceballos said the district is grateful for the opportunity to come together with local law enforcement and have students participate in events like this.
“Lake Worth ISD is proud to have our students participate in the National Night Out event hosted by the Lake Worth Police Department,” Ceballos said. “Our strong partnership with Lake Worth PD allows us to engage with the community in meaningful ways and we are thrilled to see our students actively involved. This event highlights the importance of community connections and we are grateful for the opportunity to join together in support of a safer, stronger Lake Worth community.”
The event featured food trucks such as Frios Gourmet Pops and the police department served hot dogs. The fire department passed out plastic fire hats to the kids and the Lake Worth public works department provided a cornhole game for kids to play. The police department won the chili cookoff for the first time in five years; the fire department had been the reigning champion.
