Each year National Night Out, slated for Aug. 4, grows bigger in Covington, Maple Valley and Black Diamond.
In Maple Valley the police and fire departments have tweaked the event that encourages neighbors to work together to fight crime, strengthen neighborhood spirit and send a message to the bad guys they can’t get away with crime because neighbors are working together to prevent it.
Maple Valley Police storefront officer Jeff Harmon said that officers will be participating in a number of activities and events throughout the city on that night.
“We are doing it a bit different this year,” Harmon said. “Instead of having one big meeting of all the neighborhoods at Lake Wilderness park, we are going to be attending several of the smaller neighborhood get-togethers — along with MV Fire and Life Safety — throughout the evening. Neighborhoods that are planning an event are encouraged to call Robin Larsen or myself to schedule a time when we can stop by. The time slots are already filling up – I think we are scheduling four or five stops for the night.”
Residents of all three cities are encouraged to participate by turning on all outside lights at 7 p.m. because they “are a visible statement of neighborhood unity against crime.”
From 7-10 p.m. Aug. 4 neighbors can do any number of things to get to know one another including simple activities such as going through the neighborhood and chatting with one another to hosting a barbecue or potluck in a front yard or driveway.
Many neighborhoods throughout Black Diamond will be hosting a variety of special events such as block parties, cookouts, parades, and visits from police, flashlight walks, contests, youth activities and anti-crime rallies, according to information provided by the city.
Black Diamond police and fire departments have partnered with the Black Diamond Community Center, 31605 3rd Ave., to host an outdoor party at 5 p.m. during National Night Out.
Residents of Black Diamond can check out the party which includes a free barbecue as well as the opportunity socialize with other community members. Children can get an up close look at a city fire engine and police car and all family members will have the chance to meet police officers and firefighters that serve Black Diamond. They will be able to answer questions as well as offer crime and fire prevention tips.
Black Diamond police officers will also visit neighborhood block parties.
Register your block or homeowners association as a participant in Covington Night Out by calling the Covington Police Department at 253-638-1110, extension 2243. Chief Kevin Klason, his officers and some City Council members will try to stop by to answer any questions you may have about all related events in Covington.
Contact Robin Larsen with the Maple Valley Police Department at 425-413-5158 if you’re hosting an event in the city of Maple Valley.
Reach Kris Hill at khill@maplevalleyreporter.com or 425-432-1209 ext. 5054.
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