The 26h Annual National Night Out (NNO), a unique crime/drug prevention event, has been scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 4, from 3 to 8 p.m. This annual event will take place at Oak Harbor’s Windjammer Park.

National Night Out campaign involves citizens, law enforcement agencies and emergency personnel from the City of Oak Harbor, Island County Sheriffs Department and NAS Whidbey Island, social service organizations, civic groups, businesses and local officials from Island County.

National Night Out is designed to:

Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;

Generate support for, and participation in local anticrime programs;

Strengthen neighborhood spirit and policy-community partnerships; and

Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back

“Instead of doing the traditional block party, we invite the whole community to a party at Windjammer Park,” said Officer Cedric Niiro, Oak Harbor Police Department and event committee chair. 

Some of the events planned for the day include: 3:30 p.m. Life Guard Demonstration, 4 p.m. K-9 NAS Whidbey Island Demonstration, 4:55 p.m. National Anthem, 5 p.m. Opening Remarks: Mayor Jim Slowik; NAS Whidbey Island Commanding Officer Capt. Gerral David; Oak Harbor Police Chief Rick Wallace; Island County Sheriff Mark Brown, 5:30 p.m.; Navy Search and Rescue Demo, 6:30 p.m.; DUI car crash demonstration. Ongoing activities include a DUI course, MWR climbing wall, crime scene and let’s go to jail tent. 

All types of vendors are encouraged to participate, including local clubs, organizations, food vendors and businesses. Many free family activities will be available during the entire event, including food, demonstrations and hands on activities for all ages. 

Remember to keep your porch light on the evening of National Night Out and give crime a “boot” out of town. Stop by and meet your local law enforcement, fire departments and emergency personnel, Navy personnel and many community organizations.