“National Night Out” returns next week to promote community connections and ties with law enforcement.

This year’s programs couldn’t be more timely as worries about ambushes of police and increases in violence and homicides accompany nationwide concerns about trigger-happy cops and unwarranted killings of African-Americans.

Richmond events will be 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 2 as the city joins communities across the country in observing the 33rd National Night Out, according to the Richmond Police Department.

Area residents will gather at block parties, churches, play- grounds, parks and other venues to become better acquainted with one another and with officers who police their communities.

“National Night Out is a perfect time to strengthen bonds between our police officers and residents, which makes our city safer,” Mayor Dwight C. Jones said in encouraging par- ticipation.

Further information on locations: Richmond Police Sgt. Carol Adams at (804) 646-4069 or www.richmondgov.com/police.