BEATRICE, NEB. - As part of National Night Out, area first responders in a southeast Nebraska town took part. 

In an effort to create better relationships with the community, the Beatrice Police Department and Nebraska State Patrol interacted with the public at Charles Park in Beatrice on Tuesday night. BPD Chief Jay Murphy says it's a good way to build a bond with the city's citizens. 

"It's a way for the police and the neighborhood to meet in a positive way," Murphy said. "We can talk, maybe they have some questions for us... It's just a good way to meet and have a good time."

Departments had giveaways and information for the public at booths set up throughout the park. Murphy credited Officer Brittney Ruh for her efforts in making the event possible. Because of events such as National Night Out, Murphy says it makes an officers job much easier. 

"I can go out and take a call and have a normal, decent conversation and get whatever issues there may be worked out in a positive way."