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Have a Block Party on National Night Out

The Bellevue Police Department is pleased to once again sponsor block parties for the 28th annual National Night Out Against Crime. The yearly event, scheduled for Tuesday August 7th, between 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., is an excellent opportunity for area residents to show their solidarity. Community Policing Coordinator Glen Truax said, "National Night Out provides a yearly reason for neighborhoods to bond together. They demonstrate their zero tolerance for criminal activity in their community."

The National Night Out Against Crime began in 1984 with a symbolic gesture: residents left their front porch lights on to show their support for local law enforcement and against crime. The "lights on" and front porch vigils remain, but many communities have expanded the theme. Truax said, "Block party sponsors who have had parties in the past will be especially pleased when they pick up their party pack this year. I am extremely gratified with the support that Bellevue businesses have shown."

The sign-up deadline for holding a National Night Out block party is Friday July 20th. Telephone 293-3071 to sign-up your party. After National Night Out is over, keep the crime prevention spirit alive by starting a Neighborhood Watch group. Speak with Glen Truax at 293-3071 or 637-5852 for more information about the many benefits of having a Watch group.

Photo: McGruff with National Night Out group.