Salisbury, N.C., (Friday, July 29, 2016) – Twenty-two communities within the City of Salisbury will observe National Night Out, Tuesday, Aug. 2, with free music, food, children’s games and other outdoor activities, featuring officers of the Salisbury Police Department (SPD).
Founded in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch, National Night Out is an annual campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and builds neighborhood camaraderie. The nighttime event, typically held the first Tuesday in August, also increases awareness of local law enforcement programs such as neighborhood watch and anti-crime initiatives. This year, the Salisbury City Council meeting will be held on the same date, however Councilmembers will visit with communities following the meeting’s adjournment.
Salisbury neighborhoods, in conjunction with Parks and Recreation and SPD, are expected to welcome residents at various apartment complexes, the Fred Evans pool, churches, the Women’s Club, City Park and the Salvation Army.
“National Night Out is an opportunity where officers and citizens take a moment to formally acknowledge our partnership,” said Salisbury Police Chief Jerry Stokes. “Preventing crime and disorder is not just a policing issue -- it is a neighborhood and community-wide effort facilitated by communication and dialog between the Salisbury community and its police department. The Salisbury Police Department’s vision for the future is to build on occasions like National Night Out to connect with residents and find more opportunities for these valuable conversations.”