National Night Out is Coming to Wolfe Park Aug. 7

Monroe residents are invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the 29th Annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 7, at Wolfe Park. It will be held from 5 to 9 p.m.

National Night Out, which is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Monroe Police Department, will involve over 15,325 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases around the world. National Night Out 2012 is being supported in part by Target, a national corporate sponsor.

• National Night Out is designed to:
• Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
• Generate support and participation in, local anticrime efforts;
• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police- community partnerships;
• And send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

On Aug. 7, residents throughout Monroe and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with members of the community at Wolfe Park.

National Project Coordinator Matt Peskin said: "This is a night for America to stand together to promote awareness, safety and neighborhood unity. National Night Out showcases the vital importance of police-community partnerships and citizen involvement in our fight to build a safer nation. On August 7, 2012, we invite neighborhoods nationwide to join us in 'Giving Crime and Drugs a Going Away Party'."

Police ask residents to join them for a fun night out. There will be lots of activities and fun for the whole family to enjoy. The following organizations will be in attendance: Monroe Police Department, Monroe, Stevenson, and Stepney Fire Departments, Monroe Volunteer EMS, Monroe Parks and Recreation, Monroe Information Technology (IT) Department, Monroe Social Services, Center for Women and Families, Narcotics Enforcement Officers Association (NEOA), ADAM, Target, and Rita’s Ice.

There will be a police K-9 demonstration, DJ, moon bounces, face painting, Balloon Twisting by “Magic by Melissa,” and many more fun activities and surprises for the whole family to enjoy.

This event will be held rain or shine.

For any questions regarding this event, call Det. Kelly McFarland at (203) 452-2831 ext 1212.