Several local police agencies will host National Night Out events next week. The annual event to build partnerships between police and community is Aug. 2 this year.
Vancouver
Multiple neighborhood associations are organizing events ranging from block parties to ice cream socials, said Vancouver neighborhoods coordinator Judi Bailey.
As of Tuesday, the Carter Park, Esther Short, Rose Village, Evergreen Highlands, Kevanna Park, Northwood, Vancouver Heights, Airport Green, Cascade Highlands, Fircrest, Lewis and Clark Woods, Wildwoods and Northfield neighborhoods had events planned, as did Friends of the Cascade Park Community Library.
“National Night Out is a great way for folks to get to know their neighbors and a great opportunity for law enforcement to get to know the community,” Bailey said.
Residents can find more information about what their neighborhoods are doing in the latest copy of their neighborhood newsletters — click on individual neighborhoods on the map at http://www.cityofvancouver.us/cmo/page/neighborhoods.
Bailey said organizers can help coordinate their events with the city and police via neighborhoods@cityofvancouver.us.
Ridgefield
The Ridgefield Police Department will hold a hot dog barbecue at Abrams Park, with events and attractions set for 6 to 8 p.m.
Organizers said kids will be able to scope out department patrol vehicles, as well as an ambulance from AMR and fire engine from Clark County Fire District 3.
Multiple vendors and community organizations, including the Friends of the Ridgefield Library and Clark College, will have booths set up.
Organizers have also planned a bike safety rodeo and helmet fittings.
Guests will also be able to check out a mini car show, with an expected 15-20 classic cars, and students from the Opus School of Music will provide live music.
La Center
The La Center Police Department’s event will run from 6 to 9 p.m. at Holley Park.
The party will also include police and fire vehicle displays, free food, information on crime prevention and kids activities.
The BlackPearl Friesian Dance Troupe, a group of performance riders, will return this year.
Organizers encourage attendees to bring lawn chairs — and also canned food to donate.
Battle Ground
Battle Ground, its police department and Fire District 3 will team up with Prevent Together: Battle Ground Prevention Alliance, a local youth substance abuse prevention organization.
The party’s at Kiwanis Park from 6-8 p.m.
Planned activities include face painting, children’s safety-related coloring books, a firefighter-organized home display where kids can learn about fire safety, CPR training, disaster preparedness information, fingerprinting kits, snacks and giveaways.
Students from Northwest Rock Academy will perform.
