ANOTHER COVID-19 CASUALTY: NNO 2000

FERRIS – National Night Out has been celebrated since 1984.

This year, due to COVID-19, many cities have canceled the event.

Normally held in August because of the Texas heat – it is held in October instead.

Even as some cities had hopes that by October the pandemic would be for the most part passed, that is not the case as we have edged into September. 

After all, we are still being made to wear masks in public and socially distance.

Ferris and Red Oak have both canceled the NNO events for 2020.

“In the interest of community safety and in compliance with the Governor’s Emergency Proclamations due to COVID-19, the City of Ferris and the Ferris Police Department have canceled the National Night Out event scheduled for Oct. 6, 2020,” said Ferris Police Chief John DeLeon. 

“We know that a lot of people look forward to this opportunity to meet our officers and fellowship with their neighbors each year, but we recognize that this was the responsible thing for us to do.”

Another casualty of the pandemic – the City of Red Oak.

Red Oak Police Chief Garland Wolf said, “In an abundance of caution and in compliance with the state and local orders, Red Oak is canceling its community gathering for National Night Out. Now more than ever, we as community need these programs, and while we have always had effective and great relations with our community, we continue to crave and desire the face time and conversations with our citizens.  

“We explored an on-line virtual event-type structure but decided against it because it did not have the same feel. We look forward  to being able to host an event again soon.”

Fortunately, one city that does plan to do an abbreviated and safe version of National Night Out is Wilmer. While there will not be the crowds of people and group activities, Wilmer Police Chief Victor Kemp is adamant about making sure the community is afforded some type of NNO-type activity.

“While this year’s National Night Out will not be held as in year’s past, I believe it is crucial that we do something in the City of Wilmer during this most important time,” Chief Kemp said. “The City of Wilmer and the police department are still working on a safe and productive way to celebrate National Night Out next month and we will let you know as the details unfold. We will find a way to bring the community and police department together in a way that respects current safety guidelines, but that is also a reminder of the importance of community and policing and the partnership we all, as a city, have to one another.”