The temperature had reached 98 degrees in the historic port city. Even Moose, the noble steed in Portsmouth’s Mounted Patrol Unit, had to make an early departure from the inaugural Chat, Chew & You event held in July. Regardless of the outdoor conditions, inside Woodrow Wilson High School the temperature was just right for a community engagement event presented by the Portsmouth Police Department. About 75 Portsmouth residents attended the forum and participated in a lively Q&A session. The Chat, Chew & You mission is to build trust and create partnerships with the community in an effort to enhance residents’ quality of life and for the community at-large.

Members of the Portsmouth Police Department gave several interesting presentations. Chief Angela M. Greene’s crime analysis breakdown drew a few responses of surprise when she reported that 40 percent of homicides in the city were domestic-related. She also discussed the statistics showing a reduction in crime and the activities of a newly formed task force initiative. Chief Greene solicited citizen assistance in helping to prevent criminal activity.  Lt. B.K. Hall gave a presentation about the Help Eliminate Larceny with Police (H.E.L.P.) and showed an entertaining and informative video; and Sgt. R. Dyer gave a talk on the ALERRT Training being conducted within the police department and provided pointers on what citizens can do to remain safe, and assist the police during an active shooting scenario.

A community resource room was setup outside of the auditorium and the following city agencies shared various kinds of information:

• Behavioral Healthcare
• Portsmouth Department of Social Services
• Portsmouth Museums
• Portsmouth Public Library
• Portsmouth Public Schools Division
• Portsmouth Police Department
• Portsmouth Department of Health

The library’s exhibit included free books, the opportunity to get a library card and one-on-one talks with library director Todd Elliott. He shared information about the services offered by the Portsmouth Public Library including its e-book and audible book services. The Portsmouth Fire Rescue and Emergency Services showed off its new drone and the Portsmouth Police Department handed out all kinds of freebies. Other tabletop presenters included the Police Athletic League, the HER Shelter, EVMS Loving Steps and St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church.