By Stephen Cowles

Special to the News-Herald

National Night Out on Tuesday in Isle of Wight County extended to Windsor for the first time, thanks to planning between the town police and county sheriff’s offices. Previously, the community event had been done only in Smithfield.

“First Sgt. [Rodney D.] Riddle and I talked a few months back and decided that we would co-sponsor a NNO in Windsor,” said Lt. James Pope of the Sheriff’s Office.

The inaugural activity took place next to the library on Duke Street in town and attracted 75 to 100 people, according to Riddle, who serves as interim police chief.

“There was a lot of community support, which is great,” he said.

Pope of the Sheriff’s Office concurred, and added that the event is another way to develop a partnership between the two law enforcement agencies.

National Night Out, which began 30 years ago, is designed to promote crime prevention, such as creating neighborhood watch programs. Communities like Windsor will organize social events that invite residents to meet and become better acquainted with the men and women who serve and protect.

Other featured attractions included a bounce house for children — and even some officers — as well as handing out literature on tips to prevent crimes. Hot dogs and snow cones were also served at the gazebo. Riddle and Pope mentioned they got sponsorship from Smithfield Foods, Subway, Hardee’s and the Windsor Youth Foundation.

The men said the two agencies will continue to work together when and where necessary on the job, but also at other social events, such as the Isle of Wight County Fair and Windsor High School homecoming.