National Night Out in Lake Forest Park is just one opportunity to connect with Police Department

LFP PD connects with neighborhoods during 

Night Out

We heard that some Lake Forest Park neighborhoods decided to cancel their National Night Out events due to the smoky conditions. While we're sorry we didn't have the opportunity to see everyone this evening, we completely understand and respect those decisions. The health and safety of our community always come first.

Our officers visited the neighborhoods that moved forward with their events, and we looked forward to spending time with those residents.

If you were unable to attend tonight, we want to remind everyone that National Night Out is just one of many opportunities we have throughout the year to connect with our community. We look forward to seeing you at events such as Shop with a Cop, Safety Day, the Bicycle Rodeo, and many other community outreach events.

Thank you for your continued support, and we hope everyone had a safe and fun evening.

Chief Diego Zanella
Lake Forest Park Police Department

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Mountlake Terrace defies wildfire smoke to hold City Night Out event

Smokey the Bear at Mountlake Terrace
(look at the baby!)

Story & Photos by David Carlos

Many cities postponed their National Night Out celebrations Tuesday because of poor air quality caused by wildfires in Eastern Washington.

I expected Mountlake Terrace to follow suit. Throughout the afternoon, I checked the City of Mountlake Terrace Facebook page every few minutes, anticipating a postponement notice. It never appeared. Instead, the city moved forward with the event as planned.

Why did the city proceed?

Watching performers with rapt attention

Andrew Applewick, the City of Mountlake Terrace events coordinator, said, 

"We had an investment. The community looks forward to this, and that's really what it comes down to. We're not going to require anybody to come out. We're going to make sure that they make the right choices, but some families may count on this as their meal. And it's a big thing. So, if you need to count on us, we want to make sure we do it right.”

Evergreen Playfield was packed with attendees

The event ran from 6 to 8:30pm, and Evergreen Playfield was packed. The crowd appeared even larger than in previous years.

Some attendees were loyal return visitors. I asked one attendee, Jackie, what brought her out despite the smoky conditions.

She said, “Just to see the people. I missed one year, but I try to get out here every year, yeah.”

L-R Mayor Steve Woodard, Councilmember William Paige, Jr., Deputy Mayor Carolyn Hope, Councilmembers Kyoko Matsumoto Wright, and Bryan Wahl.

Mayor Steve Woodard thanked the crowd for attending.

“Thank you all for being out here tonight in particular because a lot of cities decided they couldn't do this tonight. But we said no, we are positive that our residents would be very angry with us if we didn't. And as I understand it, you were all here at 5:45 pm as opposed to 6 o'clock. So, we really appreciate you all.”

I asked another crew member (not pictured) how many hot dogs they've made so far.
He said, "About 500. And about 500 to go. So 1000 total. Minus the one that we dropped."

Visitors were treated to free hot dogs, chips and drinks. More than 30 informational booths showcased organizations, programs, and services available to the community.

The evening also included music from a DJ, balloon art, face painting, a photo booth, public safety vehicles, a drone demonstration, cornhole with police officers, and performances by the Mountlake Terrace Dance Academy.

Question:  Did you do this as a hobby first?
Officer Russell's Answer:  "Oh, yeah, like I bought a drone because I wanted to survey my land, and then my sergeant found out I like to fly, so he asked me if I was interested."
Here, he's flying a DJI M30 drone, one of a number in the department.

Officer Russell putting on FPV (first-person view) drone goggles. You see what the drone sees.

National Night Out combines family-friendly entertainment with activities designed to strengthen relationships between residents and local public safety agencies.

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City of Shoreline, Fire, and Police postpone NNO visits this evening; look to reschedule August 25

Smoke in the treetops
Photo by Diane Hettrick

By Diane Hettrick

Wildfire smoke reached Puget Sound today, in the form of a high solid cloud of pale grey. As the evening went by, it drifted lower down, reaching the treetops. Some reached ground level, as people reported stinging eyes, irritated throats, and coughing from throats full of particulate.

However, the advantage of that thick cloud is that it blocks the sun, so we did not receive the predicted high temperatures.

The City of Shoreline strongly encouraged block parties for National Night Out for Community to postpone their events to August 25, 2026 and cancelled scheduled visits from City, Fire, and Police representatives.

Protecting the health and safety of our community, hosts, and first responders is our top priority.

Thank you for your understanding and flexibility as we work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable National Night Out. If you’re outdoors today, please take precautions and limit exposure as AQI levels rise.

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Popular ideas for National Night Out activities

National Night Out is Tuesday August 4, 2026. The concept of NNO is that the safest community is the one where neighbors know each other and it's celebrated in block parties, where everyone who lives on a particular street gets together for a few hours.

The City of Shoreline offers some ideas for activities.

National Night Out can be as simple as sharing ice cream with neighbors or as involved as a street-wide celebration with games, activities, and community projects.

Some popular ideas include:

• Scavenger hunts
• Chalk art
• Bike parades
• Karaoke
• Community cleanups
• Food drives

The most important ingredient is bringing neighbors together!

Learn more at shorelinewa.gov/NNO

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National Night Out with Kenmore Police August 5, 2026

National Night Out on August 5, 2026 anytime from 3-7pm at Kenmore's Farmer's Market at NE 181 St/68 Ave NE. 

There will be a police vehicle and specialty equipment from KCSO to explore, crime prevention materials, and several community partners joining us. 

Stop by and visit on 8/5

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Start planning for National Night Out for Community in Shoreline on August 4, 2026

Bring your neighborhood together for National Night Out for Community on August 4, 2026.

Registered block parties may request visits from the Shoreline Police Department, Shoreline Fire Department, and City officials, subject to availability.

National Night Out is a chance to strengthen neighborhood connections, meet local public servants, and celebrate community together.

Learn more and register your event at here.

If you wish to close your street for the event, you will need to apply to the City of Shoreline. One of the requirements is a copy of the invitation to neighbors and the city provides a sample.

View application requirements and resources at here.

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300 block of NE 162nd to host their first Neighborhood Block Party for National Night Out on Tuesday August 5, 2025

The neighbors on the 300 block of NE 162nd in Shoreline will be hosting their block watch party on Tuesday August 5, 2025 for National Night Out for Community.

Note that NE 162nd will be closed between 3rd and 5th from 4pm to 9pm for the event.

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National Night Out parties on Tuesday, August 5, 2025

By Diane Hettrick

Shoreline will celebrate National Night Out (NNO) for Community on Tuesday August 5, 2025. This is a great opportunity to connect with your neighbors and public officials by either hosting or attending a block party in your neighborhood.

The deadline has passed for closing a street but you can set up picnic tables in front yards and driveways.

The original title was Night Out Against Crime. These block parties are heavily supported by police departments everywhere.

A Seattle cop once told me that "the best defense against crime is a nosy neighbor." The point is that a neighbor who knows you will know if you are actually moving out and not having all your possessions stolen by thieves with a moving van (Yes that really happened in Shoreline!)

Besides - these parties are fun occasions.

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National Night Out in Shoreline August 5, 2025 - registration deadline July 10, 2025

Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Shoreline will celebrate National Night Out (NNO) for Community on August 5, 2025. This is a great opportunity to connect with your neighbors and public officials by hosting or attending a block party in your neighborhood.

The City of Shoreline waives fees and insurance requirements for block parties on National Night Out. If you'd like to host a block party, please submit your registration form by July 10, 2025.

For more information about National Night Out for Community, visit shorelinewa.gov/NNO

Register your block party here

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National Night Out in Lake Forest Park

Photo courtesy City of Lake Forest Park

National Night Out in Lake Forest Park

Tuesday, August 5, 2025 from 6-9pm

Turn on your porch or patio lights, and step outside for the 2025 National Night Out!

National Night Out is about building community; making our neighborhoods safer by getting to know our neighbors and neighborhood partners.

Considering a National Night Out event in your neighborhood? Invite a Lake Forest Park Police officer to come by and say hello. Email Cmdr. Diego Zanella for more questions.

National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community.

It furthermore provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together. Neighborhoods across the nation host block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and other community events with safety demos, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and exhibits.

Registration Forms are available at the Police Department or online here at:

• Registration Form - National Night Out
• Special Event Permit Form - National Night Out
• Invitation - National Night Out

NNO Coordinator: Cmdr. Diego Zanella
Lake Forest Park Police Department
206-957-2850
Email

Learn more and find out how to sign up on the LFP National Night Out page.

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Mayor Roberts proclaimed Tuesday August 6, 2024 as National Night Out in Shoreline

Corinne McKisson,  Program Manager at Ronald  Commons, receives the Shoreline National Night Out proclamation from Mayor Chris Roberts. Photo courtesy City of Shoreline.

Mayor Chris Roberts proclaimed Tuesday August 6, 2024 as National Night Out in Shoreline. 

The proclamation was received by Corinne McKisson,  Program Manager at Ronald  Commons. Corrinne has made National Night Out an annual and much-anticipated tradition for residents of Ronald Commons. She creates a warm and welcoming environment for everyone in the community. 

National Night Out for Community provides an opportunity for Shoreline residents to connect with their neighbors. As our City changes and grows, those connections are even more important. 

The City’s goal for NNO is to foster a sense of belonging, whether participants live in single- or multi-family housing. Corinne has led the way in making this happen.

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LFP Police visit over 30 National Night Out events

National Night Out event in Lake Forest Park
Photo courtesy LFP Police

National Night Out was another resounding success! 

Lake Forest Park Police participated in over 30 events across the city, engaging with more than 1,000 community members (964 registered). 

The night was perfect weather, with neighborhood festivities. 

Thank you for another successful year!

--LFP Police

 

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Night Out at Echo Lake Park

NNO at Echo Lake. Neighbors listen to Michelle Pidduck from Shoreline Fire
Photo by Marla Tullio 

By Marla Tullio

Pat Deagan had a dream last Friday... let’s throw together a last minute Night Out at Echo Lake Park just to see who comes? Well, at least 16 neighbors and a few City of Shoreline staff showed up!

August Night Out at Echo Lake Park was planned on fairly short notice but what a crowd including Michelle Pidduck, Community Educator and Public Relations Officer for the Shoreline Fire Department seen here in photo. 

Neighbors had a great time getting to know each other and the dog cleaned up the spills
Photo by Marla Tullio

From Shoreline Police, King County Officer Lacy also stopped by long enough to listen and share info. 

What a fun time meeting new neighbors, many living close by for several years but having never met until tonight! 

And everyone’s dog met up as well enjoying any fallen food!

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National Night Out - Tuesday August 6, 2024

Night Out in Ridgecrest
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Some of your neighborhood streets may be closed on Tuesday night, with picnic tables in the middle of the street.

It's National Night Out when neighbors gather to get to know each other. Years ago, a cop told me that the best defense against crime is a nosy neighbor. 

I'll never forget the police blotter story about a man who watched workers empty the furniture from his next door neighbor's house. He thought "I didn't know they were moving." 

Well, they weren't. He was watching a bold crime in action. Because he never talked to his neighbor, he didn't know that they had no plans to move.

It's actually not too late to have your own event. Recruit the neighbor with the biggest front lawn or driveway, then invite everyone on the street to a potluck dinner.

--Diane Hettrick

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Ridgecrest block party on 3rd NE between 157th and 158th August 3, 2024

Ridgecrest Block Party Saturday, August 3, 2024 5:00-9:30pm on 3rd Ave NE between 157th & 158th

Hang with your neighbors for National Night Out!

Everyone who lives in the vicinity of 3rd Ave NE in the Ridgecrest neighborhood is welcome!

Bring a chair and food/drink for yourself/family or an optional dish to share.

There will be a grill available if needed.

Please note: 3rd Ave NE will be closed to through traffic between 158th and 157th from 4:30pm - 10:00pm on the 3rd.

For updates and more info, follow us on Instagram @RidgecrestBlockParty

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Register your National Night Out events in Lake Forest Park

2021 Night Out in Lake Forest Park
Photo courtesy City of LFP

National Night Out is just around the corner, Tuesday, August 6, 2024 from 6:00 - 9:00pm.

This special evening aims to strengthen community bonds by encouraging everyone to step outside and connect with their neighbors for a delightful gathering filled with fun, food, and a strong sense of togetherness.

National Night Out presents an excellent opportunity to familiarize yourself with those living nearby, as well as the dedicated first responders who serve our city.

Throughout the event, city staff, NEMCo volunteers, police officers, and firefighters will be visiting as many neighborhood parties as possible.

Invite a Lake Forest Park Police officer to come by and say hello. Email Lt. Diego Zanella for more information.

Registration Forms are available at the Police Department or online:

• Registration Form - National Night Out
• Special Event Permit Form - National Night Out
• Invitation - National Night Out

NNO Coordinator: Casey Krzyminski, Lake Forest Park Police Department, 206-364-8216 x 523, 
Email

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Register your Shoreline National Night Out party

Ridgecrest 2017. Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Street closure applications are now CLOSED for National Night Out parties on August 6 or earlier, but there's still time to register your event! 

Complete and submit your registration by Friday, August 2, 2024.

When you register, you can request visits from City officials and representatives of the Shoreline Police and Fire Departments. 

Whether you're sharing ice cream bars with neighbors or hosting a block barbecue, let's make this National Night Out a memorable one!

Learn more about how to register here

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National Night Out August 6, 2024

A 2018 gathering for NNO in Lake Forest Park

By Diane Hettrick

National Night Out (NNO) is on August 6, 2024

NNO is a national movement based on the knowledge that safe neighborhoods are the ones where people know each other.

On this night, block by block, neighbors gather to share a meal and talk to each other. Gatherings can be on front lawns, driveways, or streets if you get a permit to close the street.

You can also request a visit from fire or police.

In Shoreline:

• Registration closes Monday, July 15th for street closures
• Register at: shorelinewa.gov/nno
• Questions? contact: Constance Perenyi, cperenyi@shorelinewa.gov

In Lake Forest Park:

• All the information is here

Let your neighborhood association / block watch know about your event and by all means take photos and send them to us at Editor@ShorelineAreaNews.com

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NEMCo participation in National Night Out celebrations

NEMCo volunteers at Kenmore's NNO event

By Katrina Rose – NEMCo Steering Committee Member

National Night Out Against Crime is celebrated in many ways across the country on the first Tuesday in August. 

The Cities of Kenmore and Lake Forest Park (LFP) each had different ways of celebrating this year, but both invited the Northshore Emergency Management Coalition (NEMCo) to educate the community and encourage citizens to join our serious but fun events. 

For the LFP celebration there were about 40 community gatherings in local neighborhoods which were visited by LFP Police and Shoreline Fire Department. 

These neighborhood ‘block parties’ offered an opportunity for the community to meet its members as well as its emergency services personnel. 

NEMCo had three teams of two who were able to ride along with LFP Police to about 14 of these gatherings.

NEMCo volunteers shared information with over 250 people at NNO events

Kenmore had their celebration on Wednesday, in conjunction with its Farmer's Market, where NEMCo joined in the busy event by setting up a booth staffed with volunteers. 

For both celebrations NEMCo volunteers were able to chat with, educate, and discuss NEMCo's mission and activities with residents. 

In total, volunteers answered questions and distributed information on NEMCo programs as well as general disaster preparedness to over 250 people. 

Remember to mark your calendars for the first Tuesday and Wednesday in August 2024 so you can volunteer at or participate in these important and fun community events.

For more information on NEMCo and disaster preparedness, visit our website at NorthshoreEMC.com.

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A beautiful evening for dining on the street - National Night Out

 Ridgecrest neighborhood celebration
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

By Diane Hettrick

I probably should not risk putting this in print, but, we always have good weather on National Night Out.

Something about chalk and pavement that brings out the artist in everyone
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Neighbors are able to put tables on streets and front lawns. Kids can play games and run around.

A 3-fer. Shoreline City Manager Bristol Ellington, Mayor Keith Scully, Police Chief Kelly Park.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Police, fire, city staff, and neighborhood leaders can visit and socialize at three or four events. 

Fire trucks and kids
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Fire trucks are always popular.

Councilmember Chris Roberts with Bonnie Stieber
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Most importantly, neighbors get to meet each other. Neighbors who know each other and know what is normal behavior around the block and what is not, are the best crime prevention tool. 

Years ago, a brazen crew of burglars drove up to a Shoreline home in a van and proceeded to load everything from the house into the van.

The next door neighbor watched the entire process and thought "I didn't know my neighbor was moving."

Everyone having fun at the street party.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Andrea Pertusky reports: All photos were taken on 11th Ave NE between 158th and 162nd. We had over 150 attend. It was glorious! We had our first NNO in 2013.

--updated 8-4-2023

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