Police Hold Annual Block Party Today

The public is invited to attend the Ventura Police Department’s annual Block Party today, police said.

The party, which features public service displays and entertainment, will be held at the Ralston Street station from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., authorities said.

Among the activities will be a children’s stage with a toy show, a performance of “Beauty and the Beast” and Mr. Blue--a clown who makes balloon animals.

For adults, there will be a karaoke open mike, a performance by Darlene O’Connell & the Dixie Flyers and a DUI accident simulation.

There will also be K-9 demonstrations and displays of police equipment, including a helicopter, a tow truck and a bomb containment vessel.

The party will also feature a first-aid station beneath the red balloon tower, police said.

“It’s fun, it really is. It’s a good time,” Lt. Steve Bowman said.

“It’s the one time of the year we drag all the cop toys out onto the lawn and let people get up close and personal with them. It’s great for the kids. And the food’s cheap and good.”