NATCHEZ — County and city residents gathered last night to share food, culture, ideas and a sense of unity through the National Night Out program.

Interim Sheriff Angie Brown gave a tearful speech to a crowd of approximately 200 at the new central location for the Adams County Sheriffs Office’s event, the Sheriffs Regional Training Academy.

“We are gathered here to celebrate National Night Out, but also to celebrate Ronnie Brown, as holding it in a central location was something he really wanted to do” she said. “Today is his birthday, so enjoy and have a wonderful time.”

With jumping booths, fresh grilled hamburgers and savory smoked chicken, how could they not have a wonderful time?

Some people may be uncomfortable with sheriffs, but Angie Brown said they are part of the community too, as she hugged everyone arriving at the gate.

“This gives us a chance to show the neighborhood watches that they can work together,” she said. “And we can work with them.”

Adams County Supervisor Darryl Grennell said bringing the neighborhoods together to share ideas was a good thing because Adams County is a single community with a lot to share.

Deputy Chuck Latham said another benefit to a central location was that they get to spend more time with the people and get to know them.

Supervisor Henry Watts said it also provides the community with an opportunity to get to know the Sheriff’s Office.

“It is good visibility for the Sheriffs Department,” he said. “It lets people see that they are not just badges or cars, but they are people.”

Adams County resident Gene Perkins said he thinks the event is great.

“I’m trying to meet everyone of my neighbors I can,” he said. “You never know when you might need their help.”

The Natchez Police Department went from neighborhood to neighborhood to experience a good time and share food with the people of Natchez.

Turning onto Woodlawn Ave., the police convoy was greeted by a group of children waving at them.

The children of Natchez also got to experience the police in a positive way.

“They get to see the police as our friends and protectors,” Resident Valencia Hall said. “(Chief Mullins and Captain Daniel White) are always available when we need them,” she said. “Our neighborhoods have become more safe and friendly.”

Resident Maxine Rounds said the event at Northview turned out better than she expected, as she handed school supplies to the children at the event.

“This is all great,” she said. “People helping people, this is what we are about. Love thy neighbor as thyself.”

Natchez alderman Ricky Gray said the experience seems to get bigger and better every year.

“This is great, it is how we touch base with the people,” he said. “And everything we do is about the people.”

Natchez police Chief Mike Mullins said this was a great year for the program.

“In 14 years, we have had some down years,” he said. “But tonight the turnout was great and there was a lot of neighborhood participation.”

Teenager Terrence Bailey said he enjoyed it because it was something positive to do with his neighborhood.

“I try to participate in everything I can,” he said. “The neighborhoods need to do more things like this, it helps keep us off the street.”

Natchez mayor Jake Middleton said he agreed with this sense of neighborhood pride and bonding with the police.

“I am glad I could be a part of it,” he said. “In these days and times, people have to stick together. Maybe some of these neighbors have never met, now they have in a wonderful environment.”