The Wichita Police Department is gearing up for National Night Out 2008, and this year the 25th anniversary of the nationwide event in Wichita will see some significant changes, said Community Affairs Officer Michelle Tennyson, co-coordinator of the event.
“In 2007 the National Association of Town Watch awarded the City of Wichita 10th place for its National Night Out program,” said Tennyson. “The award was based on partnerships that were developed with citizens who worked with the Wichita Police Department to take back the night. After the City’s ranking was announced, Chief Norman Williams challenged department members to come up with a bigger, more involved program for 2008.”
The Mission of National Night Out is to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime programs, strengthen police-community partnerships and neighborhood spirit, generate support for starting new Neighborhood Watch Groups, and most importantly send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.
As a result, in addition to National Night Out on August 5th, the Wichita Police Department has developed a list of exciting events that will begin on Thursday, July 31st and culminate with the National Night Out on August 5.
All citizens are encouraged to participate in National Night Out by organizing a gathering on their block for August 5th. These gatherings can be anything from an informal get together among neighbors sitting in lawn chairs, to a large party with inflatable games, cook-outs and other events.
The Wichita Police Department strongly encourages citizens to register their block parties at no charge. They can do so by going to the City of Wichita website, www.wichita.gov, and clicking on the Police Department link on the left side of the page.
Citizens can also register by calling the Crime Prevention Section at 316-268-4101.
Registration lists will be distributed to members of the Police Department, Fire Department, City Council Members and other public officials so they can stop by and visit with citizens.
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