One of the most constant complaints that I hear in Natchez is, “There’s nothing for kids to do here.”

Well, Natchez Downtown Development Association is trying to change that — one event at a time. On Oct. 11, NDDA, in cooperation with the Natchez Little Theatre, Cable One and the Turner Network, Doc Big Loves, The City of Natchez and First Natchez Radio Group will present Captain Natchez at the City Auditorium from 2 to 4 p.m.

In addition to a big-screen showing of Cartoon Network’s “Toon Takeover” show, kids will also enjoy interactive entertainment by Captain Natchez, played by Landon Henry, and receive door prizes and giveaways. Every child will leave the auditorium with a prize. Concessions will be available for purchase. Tickets are available from NDDA or from local NDDA merchants for $5 per child. You can schedule a “pirate prince or princess” birthday party at this event for your little ones — just call NDDA Director Carrie Lambert and she will be happy to assist you.

This is just the first of a series of children’s events and entertainment planned by Downtown Development, and I urge the public to participate by turning out and supporting these efforts. For less than the cost of a pizza and a movie, your children can enjoy themselves, win a prize or two, and spend time with their friends in a great environment.

In order to continue children’s programming through NDDA, it is vital that the Captain Natchez show be successful. So, if you want something “for kids to do here,” support Downtown Development’s efforts on Oct. 11. Get your tickets and take your children to the Natchez City Auditorium, 207 Jefferson St., at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11. Call NDDA for tickets or drop by Consign & Design (120 N. Commerce St.); Growing Pains (400 Main St.); Natchez Coffee Company (509 Franklin St.); Sun, Moon & Stars (421 Main St.); and Vaughan’s Café (414 Main St.) and pick up your tickets this week.

Brett Brinegar is the Grants Coordinator and Cultural Resource Director for the City of Natchez, and an ex-official member of the NDDA Board.