The Meskwaki Nation Police Department, along with our local Police Departments and emergency response crews, hosted the 3rd Annual Cruise with the Blues.
This event is part of the National Night Out campaign, a nationwide movement designed to build stronger relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. It’s all about creating safe, welcoming, and connected neighborhoods while celebrating the importance of community partnerships.
We kicked things off with a cruise through Tama and Toledo, led by none other than Amelia Lasley, who was honored as this year’s Menwi Kidikenata, a title that loosely translates to “One who raises them right.” Amelia is a mentor, a role model, and someone who embodies the spirit of care and community. Riding in the lead Meskwaki car as a sort of Grand Marshall, Amelia was presented with a sash and gifted a chair and blanket in recognition of her love and service to the community.
After the cruise, the celebration continued at the casino RV park and Red Earth Gardens, where friends and families gathered for an evening filled with food, fun, and laughter. Guests enjoyed a delicious meal, along with traditional songs from the Coonhunters Drum Group. Children and adults alike had a blast with activities like archery, a bouncy house, face painting, a dunk tank, and of course, exciting door prizes throughout the evening.
Events like Cruise with the Blues remind us of the power of community, when neighbors come together under positive circumstances, amazing things happen. The joy, the smiles, and the sense of togetherness made this year’s event truly special.
A huge thank you goes out to everyone who helped organize, volunteer, and participate in this year’s Cruise with the Blues. Your support and energy made it a success, and we’re already looking forward to doing it all again next year! Until then, let’s keep building strong, caring, and safe communities together.