By Dana Hudspeth, Media Relations Specialist
Chickasaw Nation Media Relations Office
ADA - The Chickasaw Nation, the city of Ada, and East Central University have teamed up once again to host National Night Out (NNO) from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, August 4 at the East Central University mall area.
National Night Out is a nationwide crime and drug prevention event designed to heighten awareness and strengthen participation in local anticrime efforts, and to strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.
Locally, the nationally- recognized event gives people of the Ada community a chance to interact with several law enforcement agencies, including Chickasaw Nation Lighthorse Police, Ada Police, and EMS crews. Local fire departments, search and rescue teams, and other agencies also participate in the event.
Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby said, “National Night Out highlights the daily cooperative efforts between tribal, state and local agencies to keep our communities safe and fight the war on crime. We are pleased to be a part of this special night.”
Food, entertainment, educational and informative booths, and fun games for kids will highlight the evening. Guest musicians and special demonstrations are also on tap for the event.
All activities are free and open to the public.
National Night Out was introduced by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) in 1984 as a means of increasing participation in neighbor watch participation. Since its inception, the nationwide program has grown to reach 37 million people. Ada is one of over 15,000 communities around the nation and Canada, and on military bases expected to take part in the 2009 edition of the event.
Last year, more than 800 community members attended the Ada event, making the local NNO effort one of the largest in the state.
The 2008 Ada event was honored for the third consecutive year as one of the best in the United States. It was ranked #15 in cities with population less than 15,000 citizens.
The Chickasaw Nation, the city of Ada and East Central University have shared the award for from the NATW four times in five years.
For more information or to participate by providing an activity booth or demonstration, contact Matt Folsom at (580) 272-5509.
