The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Wahkiakum County's Volunteers in Public Service (VIPS) say people don't need a good reason to throw a block party, but here's one anyway: August 5 is America's National Night Out, an annual community-building happening that raises awareness about crime and drug prevention. It is also a time for promoting police-community partnerships, and neighborhood camaraderie.

In years past, VIPS and the Wahkiakum County Sheriff's Office have sponsored a local event. This year, however, the focus is on individual neighborhood events. As Sheriff Mark Howie said, "The event is all about police partnerships with the community and the community's partnership with itself; about people coming together to be good stewards and take a stand against crime in their neighborhoods."

Neighbors are encouraged to do something the evening of August 5 -- a potluck, a cookout, a party, a walk.

Sheriff Howie and deputies will be available to visit individual communities. To be included in the schedule that evening, call 795-3242 to let the sheriff's office know where and when a neighborhood event is occurring.