Coulee Dam puts off National Night Out party

The National Night Out street party in Coulee Dam scheduled for Aug. 4 has been postponed.

The Coulee Dam Police Department's annual participation in the nationally promoted community get-together, always scheduled for the first Tuesday in August, was coming up at a poor time to hold a celebration, the city said in a broadcast text message and in an email to The Star.

"We feel it would be unsafe to have people out in these smoky conditions," explained City Clerk Stefani Bowden in an email Monday.

Wildfires in the region have kept Air Quality Index ratings fluctuating wildly for weeks, ranging from clear to hazardous.

"As much as we were looking forward to enjoying a fun evening, the health and safety of our community members is far more important to us," the text message sent Monday morning read. "Due to the devasting times that so many are facing and the unsafe air quality, we have made the hard decision to postpone National Night Out."

The event is postponed until "a later date yet to be determined," the message said.

The event each year features informative exhibits from police and other emergency services professionals, street games, free treats and food offered by various participants, including local law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services departments, mental health services, churches, and more.

Nationally, it's seen as a way for police to interact in a positive manner with the local citizens they serve but don't always get to see.

The last several events have been held on Mead Avenue in Coulee Dam, and in the adjacent Mason City Memorial Park, across from the post office.