More than 700 people attended the 21st edition of the annual Monroe County National Night Out at Recreation Park in Tomah Aug. 6.
Tomah Police Chief Scott Holum says the event continues to be well received by the public. “I think it’s popular because it’s an event that brings the community together,” said Holum.Over 200 children learned bike safety during the Tomah Police Department’s Bike Safety Expo.
People also had a chance to visit more than 30 not-for-profit organizations and participate in several hands-on displays.Holum said NNO also helps his officers, along with other agencies build relationships, which leads to safer communities. “It’s good for people to come there and see emergency personnel and maybe a different side of than we would normally see,” added Holum.
A group of Monroe County organizations and agencies including Tomah Health coordinated this year’s event. “There is no way this event could take place without all the participation from law enforcement, emergency medical services, fire departments and the groups and businesses that allowed their employees to take part. Of course, our media partners and the Tomah Parks and Recreation Dept., and director Joe Protz were instrumental too,” said Tomah Health marketing & public relations director Eric Prise.
Over the past years, the Monroe County NNO has been recognized by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) for outstanding participation in ‘America’s Night Out Against Crime.’