MOUNT CARMEL - On Tuesday, Aug. 6, neighbors throughout Mount Carmel Township and the borough are invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide to celebrate the 30th annual National Night Out in the parking lot at Mount Carmel Area High School.
This year will mark the fifth year the township and borough have been involved in the crime and drug prevention program.
National Night Out is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by Mount Carmel Township and Mount Carmel police departments, local fire and emergency medical services personnel and local businesses.
The event involves more than 14,625 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world. More than 36.7 million people are expected to participate in America's Night Out Against Crime.
National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in local anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.
From 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 6, residents in the township and borough and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors and police. Police, firefighters and emergency personnel will host a variety of special events including cookouts, interaction with residents, contests, demonstrations, crime rallies and youth activities.
Plenty of food, beverages, entertainment and surprises for children will be available at the high school parking lot. A special guest appearance will be made by Northumberland County Sheriff Chad Reiner and his K-9 partner, Clark. Pennsylvania State Police and Pennsylvania Army National Guard also will be there.
Residents are urged to leave all pets at home.
The event coordinator is Mount Carmel Township Patrolman Kelly Campbell. He can be reached at 339-1653, extension 703. The assistant coordinator is Mount Carmel Patrolman Jason Drumheller, who can be contacted at 339-6020, extension 67.