NIGHT OUT AGAINST CRIME' ACTIVITIES TUESDAY AT RAILROAD PARK

This year's "National Night Out," sponsored by the Palacios Police Dept.
and the City of Palacios will take place from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday (Aug. 1)
with Palacians invited to enjoy a variety of family-related activities at
Railroad Park amphitheater.

According to Sgt. Whitwell, local activities planned will include free
food, a Jumping Castle, face-painting and other games and entertainment
provided by the Calhoun County YMCA.

A coloring contest is open to children in two age divisions: 4-6 and 7-9.
This year's theme is "Having a Going Away Party for Drugs and Violence".
The contest entry deadline is 3 p.m., Friday (July 28).

Submissions should be mailed or dropped off at the Palacios Police
Department at 405 Commerce or Palacios City Hall at 311 Henderson.

Local businesses will donate prizes for the contest and winners will be
announced at Tuesday's Palacios Night Out.

For more information or for coloring contest rules contact the Palacios
Police Department at 972-3112.

National Night Out is designed to: (1) Heighten crime and drug prevention
awareness; (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anti crime
efforts; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community
partnerships; and (4) send a message to criminals letting them know
neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

While the traditional 'lights on' and front porch vigils remain a part of
National Night Out, activities have expanded considerably over the years.

The Palacios proclamation states "It is essential that all citizens of
Palacios be aware of the importance of crime prevention programs and impact
that their participation can have on reducing crime, drugs and violence in
Palacios."