Millions of neighbors take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities from all fifty states, U.S. territories and military bases worldwide on the first Tuesday in August. Most neighborhoods host block parties, while others take part in festivals, parades, cookouts and various other community events with safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, exhibits and much, much more. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. There are several National Night Out community block parties planned for this year (August 7). Currently, one is scheduled to take place at the Eastside Park, another at Lund Park in Empire, and another at the Salvation Army facility on Flannagan Street in Empire. More information will be available in next week’s Friday Update, the City of Coos Bay’s newsletter. A National Night Out Chair of the local Neighborhood Watch Advisory Committee, “Bear,” the Chair of the local Neighborhood Watch Advisory Committee said the Group is still looking for leaders to host and startup a Neighborhood Watch in your neighborhood. “If you want a safer neighborhood and to meet your neighbors, join in on the ‘National Night Out’ celebration picnic on August 7,” he said. “All you have to do is to be willing to host the event and notify your neighborhood of when and where it will be held. We still have a few food vendors left who will cater an event for free to those of you who are wanting to participate and host their own Neighborhood Watch’s National Night Out, but you’ll need to hurry because time is running out!” If you need assistance or want more information, please call Mrs. Bear at (541) 290-5809, or email at larbear1185@yahoo.com.