National Night Out returns
Lexington Police Department Chief Robby Rummage laughs with his fellow players during a game of UNO at National Night Out in 2019. {Contributed photo/City of Lexington}
As was the case with most events last year, the Lexington Police Department’s (LPD) National Night Out was canceled. Next month, LPD, which has hosted the community event annually since the late 1990s, is poised to continue using the nationwide initiative to assist in developing relationships with citizens.
National Night Out will be held on Tuesday, August 3 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at four locations:
Grimes Park - 25 Hege Drive Lexington, NC 27292
Green Needles Park - 264 Charlotte Drive Lexington, NC 27295
Washington Park - 100 Bookington Avenue Lexington, NC 27292
Light of the World Church - 1306 Thomason Street Lexington, NC 27292
LPD Officer Matthew Effinger at NNO 2019. {Contributed photo/City of Lexington Parks & Recreation Department}
In 2019, the police department changed their format of National Night Out. Traditionally, it had been held in Uptown Lexington attracting thousands to Main St. Many of the visitors weren’t residents of Lexington or Davidson County. With a desire to return to the event’s roots, LPD made a decision to revamp its format.
“The department wanted National Night Out to be a community event by having it in the community itself,” said Ronnie Best, captain of professional standards and community engagement. “By doing this, it allows us to build even more on our relationship between the community and police. The citizens enjoy it and the officers enjoy it better because they get to interact more with the citizens.”
At each location, attendees can expect fun and games with the police. Additionally, the department will provide light refreshments and water.
Lexington Fire Department Chief Paul Jarrett kneels do to talk with a young citizen at NNO 2019. {Contributed photo/City of Lexington Parks & Recreation Department}
Asked to speak to the importance and necessity of National Night Out, a nationwide initiative, Best stated, “National Night Out builds on the relationship between communities and police while bringing back a true sense of community. It’s important for us to show that we care for our community and citizens. Come out and enjoy a night of fun with the family.”
