Friday's Internet Edition, July 04, 2008.
National Night Out
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News editor - After a kickoff party on Saturday, Copperas Cove is ready to celebrate their seventh annual National Night Out tonight from 7 until 10 p.m.
Lieutenant Daniel Austin of the Copperas Cove Police Department is asking for residents in neighborhoods to lock their door, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors and police.
So far, 12 residents have officially declared their intentions to host a block party for tonight.
Suggestions for outdoor functions include, but are not limited to: block parties, cookouts, parades, visits from police, flashlight walks, contests, youth activities and anti-crime and drug rallies.
Last year’s National Night Out campaign involved citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from over 9,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories and military bases worldwide. In all, 29.5 million people participated in NNO.
“National Night Out is designed to: (1) Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnership; and (4) send a message to the criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back,” Austin said.
Those who do hold the block parties will have police and firefighters there to show their appreciation for the support of NNO.
Residents can call the police department with any questions they might have about NNO. Lt. Austin’s number is 254-547-4273 ext. 541 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.