National Night Out is a nationwide observance on the first Tuesday of August each year that enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement. Here, Police Chief Patrick Gurcsik interacts with kids at a previous observance. PHOTO COURTESY OF WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP POLICE DEPARTMENT
Washington Township’s annual National Night Out on Tuesday will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at Washington Lake Park.
“National Night Out is important to the Washington Township police, because it aligns directly with the community caretaking mission I crafted and adopted when I became chief in 2017,” said Chief Patrick Gurcsik.
National Night Out is a nationwide observance on the first Tuesday of August each year that enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement and fosters a sense of community. It began nearly four decades ago.
“We work towards that mission daily on every shift,” the chief explained. “Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring our police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.
“Our National Night Out is the best in the state,” Gurcsik added. “This will be our largest National Night Out ever.”
The evening will include food, pony rides and a petting zoo, a dunk tank – Gurcsik will be the target at 6 p.m. – music and 60 vendors. The public can also try the DWI golf cart and get a look at police, fire and SWAT vehicles.
There will also be hot-air balloon rides, a helicopter landing and demonstrations by the police K-9 unit.
