Cops and Kids Safe Streets Party set in Carson City

The 16th annual Cops and Kids Safe Streets Party, hosted by the Carson City Sheriff’s Office, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 18 at the Sheriff’s Office administration building, 911 E. Musser St.

Public safety, awareness and community are at the center of this annual spring event where the theme is “Cops and Kids: Where the Community and Law Enforcement Come Together.” The open house was launched by Sheriff Ken Furlong as part of the community policing efforts and has grown into a favorite and highly anticipated community event for families and individuals of all ages.

“This event is made possible through the continuous support from residents, businesses and statewide agencies who believe public safety is a collaborative effort made by all,” Furlong said. “The event provides the opportunity to visit with those in public safety and learn more about the resources and responsibilities of the many divisions within the Carson City Sheriff’s Office.”

Cops and Kids is not only a street party complete with a hot dog barbecue provided by Grocery Outlet, DJ music and emcees, but it is also an interactive event with Carson City Sheriff’s staff, officers and agencies featuring engaging activities for children and families.

Activities include games, safety demonstrations, meet-and-greets with motorcycle patrol, SWAT, the gang unit task force, the CCSO Special Enforcement Team and the K-9 Unit. There will be music by Dan Kim of Rock-It Productions, face painting, balloons, prizes and surprises. Event attendees will receive prize sheets to encourage exploration into the many facets of public safety. Cops and Kids is an opportunity for children and families to learn about summer safety, crime and substance abuse prevention and to become acquainted with sheriff’s office personnel and partners. This event is a celebration of public safety in all practices, whether through service or self-advocacy.

“The free event is for the entire community,” said CCSO Deputy Lisa Davis, event coordinator. “We call this event Cops and Kids, but there is something for everyone, parents, grandparents and kids. If you want a cup of coffee with the sheriff, come on by. And if you’re hungry, Grocery Outlet and the Kiwanis will feed you, too.”

Cops and Kids started in an effort to give back to the community and is partially funded by the Justice Assistance Grant. Over the years, it has gained widespread community support with numerous sponsors supporting the event to defray costs, including hot dogs and beverages, which, for years, have been provided by Dave and Lynn Cox, owners of Carson City’s Grocery Outlet. Dave and Lynne Cox not only have been generous with their support but also supplied food and beverages for the National Night Out, held every August.

“We’ve learned that Dave and Lynne are set to retire from the store this summer, and we want to give a special ‘thank you’ shout out for all the years he has helped by donating food for Cops and Kids and National Night Out,” said Davis.

Among this year’s Cops and Kids sponsors are the Downtown Carson City Business Association, Kiwanis, Dan Kimm Rock It Productions, Kadee Mason Agency, Dave’s Supplies, American Family Insurance, RCM Realty Group, Emblem Club, Sun Spot Tanning, Monarch Direct LLC and Liz’s Biz. Because of our sponsors and support, more youth and citizens are able to participate in activities where they can win prizes, and everyone gets the chance to interact with officers and community agencies.

Carson City Sheriff’s Office strives continually to build strong positive bonds between law enforcement and youth in the community. For information, call Lisa Davis at 775-283-7809.