Described by the national organization as a “community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live,” National Night Out will return to Philomath on Tuesday, Aug. 2.
The event will run from 6-8 p.m. at Philomath City Park in the vicinity of Randy Kugler Community Hall. Hosted by the Philomath Police Department, other agencies, organizations and businesses that had confirmed attendance as of earlier this week include Philomath Fire & Rescue, Benton County Sheriff’s Posse, Benton County Sheriff’s Marine Patrol, National Guard, Pioneer Connect, Mid-Columbia Bus Co., and Strengthening Rural Families with more possible, organizers said.
National Night Out has become a popular annual event not only in Philomath but across the country — most marking the occasion on the first Tuesday in August. Safety demonstrations, youth events, vehicles on display and interaction with emergency personnel in a relaxed atmosphere are among the typical activities.
“Bring your questions for the cops, any concerns, talk to a police officer about anything on your mind,” Philomath Police Chief Ken Rueben said.
The event will also include food with Safeway donating items for the event.
“National Night Out is designed to enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community,” the organization states on its website. “Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.”