Residents encouraged to participate in second annual event

By Tammy Leytham

The Selma Times-Journal

Organizers are encouraging residents of Old Town to come out for the Second Annual National Night Out, which will be held Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m.

A Street Party is planned on Abbott Street between Church and Tremont, with food, entertainment and children’s activities.

Organizers are expecting 400 to 500 residents to attend this year’s event. The street party gives residents an opportunity to get to know one another.

Many activities are planned for the evening including the announcement of the winners of the Coloring Contest, a neighborhood Bake-Off at 6 p.m., a Bicycle and Stroller Decorating Contest followed by a Parade through Old Town at 6:30 p.m., a Cutest Pet with donations made to the Animal Shelter, and talent shows.

The people and equipment of the Selma Police, Selma Fire, ABI and Dallas County Sheriff’s departments will be on display.

New this year will be Child ID kits, which will be available to help protect Old Town’s youngest residents. Professionals will assist with the fingerprinting.

Barbeque sandwiches, hot dogs, Pepsi, popcorn, watermelon and sno-cones will be available for no charge to Old Town residents.

Night Out is a national partnership that brings together citizens, law enforcement agencies, community groups, business and local officials in more than 11,000 communities in all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide.

Nationally, more than 35 million people are expected to participate in &8220;America’s Night Out Against Crime&8221; this year.

National Night Out is designed to:

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Heighten crime, drug and violence prevention awareness;

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Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;

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Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships;

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