Kilgore prepares for National Night Out

On Tuesday, August 5, neighborhoods throughout Kilgore are invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event.

National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime efforts; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

From 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. residents in neighborhoods throughout Kilgore and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors and police. Many neighborhoods throughout Kilgore will host a variety of special events such as block parties, visits from police and youth activities.

"This is a night for Kilgore to stand together to promote awareness, safety and neighborhood unity," Mike Coston, Kilgore Chamber of Commerce president, said. "National Night Out showcases the vital importance of police-community partnerships and citizen involvement in our fight to build a safer community. We invite neighborhoods to join us in Giving crime and drugs a 'going away party.'"

Kilgore Chamber of Commerce will have representatives visiting each neighborhood party all evening long. This year, as in year's past, parties will be collecting non-perishable food items to donate to Helping Hands.

If you would like to participate in this fun and important event by hosting a block party, please call the Kilgore Chamber of Commerce at 984-5022 to make your reservation today!