Cedar Rapids, Marion gearing up for National Night Out

The communities of Cedar Rapids and Marion are gearing up for this year's National Night Out event, which takes place Tuesday, Aug. 1, and the police departments in both cities continue to invite neighborhood groups to register their activities.

National Night Out is an annual community building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. This year marks the 34th anniversary of the event.

The Cedar Rapids Police Department, which celebrates its 18th National Night Out anniversary this year, reports that at least 12 events already are scheduled throughout the city from 6 to 8 p.m. on Aug. 1.

During that time, residents are asked to lock their doors, turn on their front porch lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors and law enforcement officials. Along with the traditional outside lights and front porch vigils, most cities celebrate National Night Out by hosting block parties, cookouts and various community events with safety demonstrations, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and exhibits.

'I encourage citizens in Cedar Rapids to participate in National Night Out,” Police Chief Wayne Jerman said in a news release. 'By participating in events like this, neighbors get to know one another and can work together with the police department to create a safe community. It is always a good idea to know your neighbors and know what is going on in your neighborhood. Working together, we can continue to prevent crime in our neighborhoods.”

To register a National Night Out event in Cedar Rapids, go to cedar-rapids.org/police or contact Sgt. Cristy Hamblin at (319) 286-5439 or c.hamblin@cedar-rapids.org.

In Marion, the police department is partnering with the Marion Fire and Parks & Recreation departments to host National Night Out from 5 to 7 p.m. at Thomas Park, 343 Marion Blvd. The event includes K-9 demonstrations at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m., a display of police and fire equipment, games, an obstacle course and giveaways. Hot dogs, cookies and water are being served up courtesy of Marion Hy-Vee.

To register an event in Marion, call (319) 200-7727.