Keokuk County Plans First National Night Out Event—“Americas’ Night Out Against Crime”
National Night Out, 'America's Night Out Against Crime,' was introduced by the National Association of Town Watch in 1984. The program was the brainchild of NATW Executive Director Matt A. Peskin. In an effort to heighten awareness and strengthen participation in local anti-crime efforts, Peskin felt that a high profile, high-impact type of crime prevention event was needed nationally.
Subsequently, he proposed a national program that would be coordinated by local crime prevention agencies and organizations - but that would involve entire communities at one time. The first National Night Out was introduced early in 1984 - with the event culminating on the first Tuesday in August.
While the traditional 'lights on' and front porch vigils remain a part of NNO, activities have expanded considerably over the years to include block parties, cookouts, parades, visits from police, festivals, neighborhood walks, safety fairs, contests, rallies and meetings.
Peskin said, "It's a wonderful opportunity for communities nationwide to promote police-community partnerships, crime prevention, and neighborhood camaraderie. While the one night is certainly not an answer to crime, drugs and violence, National Night Out does represent the kind of spirit, energy and determination that is helping to make many neighborhoods safer places throughout the year. It [NNO] is a night to celebrate safety and crime prevention successes - and to expand and strengthen programs for the next 364 days." For more info, go to www.nationalnightout.org/nno
A few community members are organizing local efforts for the August 3rd event. Some events may include kids’ games, a teen scavenger hunt, a rock climbing wall, information for parents, displays from the fire department, ambulance, and police departments, and a movie in the park.
The first planning meeting has been scheduled for Monday, June 21st. The next meeting will be July 20 at 12:00 noon at the ISU Extension Office in Sigourney. All are encouraged to attend. For more information contact Lynne Zoulek at 641-224-2271 or lynne.zoulek@sigourneyschools.com
