DEMOPOLIS-They had everything. Foster Farms corndogs, a popcorn machine, soft drinks, and a playground. The Demopolis Police Department was ready for a successful National Night Out, but the weather had something else planned.

After the brief rainfall Tuesday afternoon, the community chose not to come out to meet area officers.

“It was kind of a disappointment,” Chief Jeff Manuel said. “People didn’t come out because of the weather.”

Although the department had no control over the weather, Manual said next year, they will advertise more to get more participation next year. He said the department will also attempt to get more support from local businesses and have more activities and demonstrations.

“I want for people to get to know their officers,” Manuel said. “It’s beneficial to people to know who’s protecting them.”

Along with a few Demopolis citizens and the department’s family and friends, the Demopolis Fire Department and the local Engineer Corps also made appearances.

Manuel said by the end of the afternoon it was “more of a bonding session for employees.”

The children who were there spent most of their time running and bouncing on the playground while the adults enjoyed food and fellowshipped.

The people who were there had a good time, and that’s all DPD cared about.