Wenatchee Taking a Simpler Approach to National Night Out this Year

National Night Out will look a little different this year, with the Wenatchee Police Department holding three smaller events by themselves instead of what's normally been a large-scale celebration between all four local jurisdictions, state agencies and the community.

The department will hold simultaneous events at Lincoln, Washington and Rotary parks August 3rd from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Captain Edgar Reinfeld said members of the community are encouraged to come down and hang out, talk and check out some of the police vehicles.

"Bring bbq, bring your pot-luck, bring whatever it is you want to do to come be with your neighbors and to meet with us so we can hear your concerns and you can learn a little bit more about us." explained Reinfeld, "We're really trying to take it to the community without a large event full of vendors and other things. Just keeping it simple and keeping it more direct."

Each park event will have 1-2 officers in attendance as well as local city council members and other public officials. The Wenatchee Police Department will release more information over the next month via their social media.

National Night Out was founded back in the 1980's as a way to connect law enforcement and the community.