National Night Out brought neighbors, city officials and first responders together across Minden on Tuesday night, with eight block parties held in neighborhoods throughout the city.
The annual event, organized locally by District A Councilman Carlton “Buddy” Myles and the City of Minden, encouraged residents to turn on porch lights, lock doors and spend the evening outdoors with neighbors and police.
Mayor Nick Cox said the citywide gatherings reflect Minden’s community spirit.
“National Night Out is one of my favorite community traditions,” Cox said. “It’s a simple idea with real power. Neighbors gathering to meet each other, share food, and strengthen the bonds that make Minden a safer, friendlier place to live.”
Residents from several districts shared similar enthusiasm.
In District E, Sarah Haynes hosted on Ridgewood Circle.
“Ridgewood and Southridge all enjoyed the night,” Haynes said. “We had several new neighbors we welcomed to the neighborhood. The ice cream was a big hit. Thanks for the visit from our City Officials who came by!”
The Minden Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. held its event on Martin Luther King Drive in District B.
Freda Ary, chair of the sorority’s Social Action Committee, said the gathering reflected the group’s commitment to service.
“Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. mission involves using ‘unwavering advocacy, service, and innovation’ to ‘empower the communities where we live, serve, and represent,’” Ary said.
Darrell Hampton, executive director of 22 Hands Up, hosted the event on Hardy Street in District A. “It was a great night, and it was the perfect platform for 22 Hands Up to invest into our future — which is our youth and our community,” said Hampton
In District A, Carolyn Marwray and Tina Harris hosted on Sheppard Street.
“Everyone had a great time, we enjoyed everyone,” Marwray said.
Also in District A, the Mt. Zion Lay Ministry hosted a celebration on McMullen Street.
“It was a wonderful neighborhood gathering,” organizer Theron Winzer said. “The Mt. Zion Lay Ministry and neighbors fellowshipped, ate, sang and played. It was a great pleasure for the elected officials and first responders to come out and interact with the community at 701 McMullen Street.”
Management of Harvest Manor Apartments on Lee Street in District B had the theme “Getting to know your neighbors – Neighbors by chance, friends by choice, community by love,” and they expressed, “We enjoyed doing our part in building long lasting relationships between the city officials and the local community.”
At Babb Park in District C, residents gathered for food and fellowship.
“First of all I have to thank God for giving us such a beautiful day for this wonderful event,” organizer Michael Walker said. “It proves to me again and again the love the citizens have for our beautiful city. I love when we all can unite as a community for such a great cause.”
Walker also thanked volunteers and city leaders who helped make the event possible, including those who grilled more than 100 hamburgers and hotdogs and assisted with setup.
This year’s turnout, organizers said, reflected a shared goal of keeping Minden connected. From backyard cookouts to park gatherings, residents across all districts helped show that strong neighborhoods remain at the heart of a strong city.
Carey Lane in District A
