The event will be held August 6 at The Centre on the campus of Halifax Community College, in response to comments about the national celebration being held during what is typically one of the hottest months of the year.

It will feature the iconic North Carolina beach music band The Embers. The band will play from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

(Vendors may still sign up for the event by calling Jackson at 252-326-3938 or Macon at 252-536-3136)

The Embers

“National Night Out happens once a year when the community comes together to take a stand against crime,” Captain Andy Jackson of Roanoke Rapids said.

Instead of holding separate National Night Out events, the two departments joined together. “We’re neighboring communities and work together anyway,” Jackson said.

The evening’s theme will be demonstrated through programs on gang awareness, sexting and drug awareness, as well as overall crime prevention. Varying agencies — from the department of social services to the district attorney’s office — will also be on hand to share information, Jackson said.

Jackson commended the college’s participation in the event. “We’re talking about education and HCC is the central hub of education in Halifax County.”

The two agencies have not partnered since a 2007 National Night Out was held at the former Carolina Crossroads concert site, Weldon police Chief Mark Macon said.

“It’s great,” Macon said of the renewed partnership. “The community and law enforcement can partner and work together as a team.”

While there will be some parts of the event outdoors, most of the event will be held inside, Jackson said. There will be inflatable features for the children as well as activities planned by the Roanoke Rapids Parks and Recreation Department.

Weldon officers will be talking about drug awareness, car seat safety and providing information on bullying, Macon said.

Jackson said the evening will provide entertainment with The Embers and education for parents and children.

“It’s an event for the whole family,” said Roanoke Rapids police Lieutenant O.L. Morgan.

Macon would like to see the cooperative National Night Out continue. “Hopefully we can build on it this year and make it greater next year.”

For Macon the event, “Is about building relationships with the community and showing the community the police are friendly. It could help with recruitment.”