The Southern Arkansas University Police Department along with the Columbia County Local Emergency Planning Committee and area emergency response agencies will be conducting an annual county-wide emergency drill on the campus of Southern Arkansas University on Tuesday, October 12, 2010 beginning at approximately 5:00 p.m.  Classes will not be affected by this drill; however, the drill activities will involve movement of emergency equipment and personnel through Magnolia as well as concentrated activities and simulations in the SAU drill area.

Southern Arkansas University and Columbia County emergency responders conduct drills periodically to assess plans, personnel and equipment designated to respond for the community in a disaster and/or terrorist situation.

In keeping with routine drill policy, details of the simulations will not be released ahead of time; however, the public should not be alarmed at emergency vehicle and radio traffic during the drill.  During the drill the University will test all mass notification systems and emergency plans.

Any questions should be directed to Chief Eric Plummer at (870) 235-4372.

On Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010, neighborhoods throughout Magnolia are being invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the “27th Annual National Night Out” crime and drug prevention event. National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Southern Arkansas University Police Department, will involve over 15,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world. In all, over 37 million people are expected to participate in ‘America’s Night Out Against Crime’.

National Night Out is designed to: (1) Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime efforts; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and (4) Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

From 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on August 3rd, residents in Magnolia and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors and police. The Southern Arkansas University Police Department is hosting various activities for the community. Starting at 6:00 p.m. the Rider Rink will be open for free skating, popcorn and drinks. The police department will hand out Child ID Kits which include fingerprint, DNA, and description information to help identify children in the event of an emergency. Activity books, balloons and stickers will also be provided.

Please join us in building a safer community here in Magnolia and at Southern Arkansas University.