Owatonna Police Invite Everyone to Unite Against Crime

The annual Minnesota Night to Unite is Tuesday, August 7 and the Owatonna Police Department invites the community to be part of this nationwide celebration. In a news release, OPD, "encourages you to participate in this great celebration of community, crime prevention, and strong police/community partnerships."

The Minnesota Crime Prevention Association promotes the Night to Unite as a way to heighten crime and drug awareness, generate support for local crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and send a message to criminals.

Go to the Owatonna Police Department website for information and to register your neighborhood get together. Police personnel will attempt to attend all of the registered parties and will collect school supplies again this year for the Children's Remedial Fund of Steele County.

The website offers numerous activity suggestions and planning tips. Over the years in Owatonna, people have done everything from ice cream cones or dessert to a potluck or more elaborate food options. Whether the event includes games for kids and prizes or just neighbors sitting around in chairs visiting, "A strong community makes for a safe community. Everything we do to strengthen the ties among neighbors of all ages, backgrounds and lifestyles makes our present and future that much brighter," according to the release.

The registration deadline is Friday, August 3. You can contact Pamela Roberts at 507-774-7200 with questions.

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