A Night Out brings neighbors together

Shoreline Officer Steve Perry told
stories to the kids at Shoreline Park
Photo by Nan Colton

All over the area on Tuesday evening, streets were closed, tables were set up on lawns, and neighbors gathered together for the National Night Out Against Crime.

The premise is simple. Neighbors who know each other watch out for each other. The event helps neighbors meet and get to know each other. This year’s focus was on burglary prevention, special events within the city, and communication.

Shoreline had 51 registered block parties and Lake Forest Park had 23. There may have been more - those who didn't need to close a street and didn't let the police know about their event.

Lake Forest Park Police made it to 22 of the 23 parties. Shoreline sent Police Officers, City staff members, and the Mayor and made it to all 51 parties.

National Night Out is a national campaign that brings neighbors together to talk about crime prevention within their neighborhoods and within the city. 

Shoreline Officer Perry had a rapt audience of small children at the Shoreline Park party organized by Shawn Van Horn. 

Echo Lake Board member Nan Colton reports that "He was informative and entertaining. Police car lights were flashing all the time, making the whole experience very real."

Ray Webber brought BBQ pork ribs with special sauce
Photo by Nan Colton

One of the best-kept secrets of Night Out is just how good the food is. All the neighbor Foodies bring out their best stuff. If you are lucky enough to have a restaurant on your block, such as Patty Pan in Briarcrest, or a BBQ king like Ray Webber, so much the better. 

For information about forming block watches and being prepared for next year's Night Out, contact your police department.