Guilderland takes a night out against crime

GUILDERLAND — In an effort to draw the community together and educate people, the Guilderland Police Department’s youth services division will host a night out against crime.

The event, on Aug. 4 in Tawasentha Park, is part of a national “Take Back the Night” mission against crime.

Brian Forte, an officer in the Guilderland Police Department, and a school resource officer, said the department held an event last year, on a much smaller scale, at Crossgates Mall.

About nine months ago, the Guilderland Police made the decision to do something bigger in 2009, and, according to Forte, put a lot of time and effort into the event, hoping for a good turn out.

In addition to information booths and demonstrations by a variety of organizations, including Guilderland Emergency Medical Services, Western Turnpike and Altamont rescue squads, New York State Corrections, and the National Guard, there will be “plenty to do and great events for kids,” Forte said.

Activities will include a rock climbing wall, pony rides, a bounce house, and a petting zoo. The Refrigerators, a local band, will also perform. Food vendors will be on hand as well.

The event, which is free to the public, will take place in the park from 6 to 9 pm, and, Forte said, “I hope people come out and enjoy themselves, and learn something in the process.”