Block Parties Abound for Crestwood's National Night Out

The is hosting its National Night Out on Wednesday evening, and there are about 14 scheduled block parties to celebrate, according to Crestwood police.

Crestwood Neighborhood Watch will be issuing the “Lights on Against Crime” challenge to residents to participate and show their support for crime prevention in Crestwood, according to a release from the department. This “challenge” is designed to select a party from the community that best represents the goals of Crestwood Night Out crime prevention, and specifically preventing crime through enhancing bonds in the community.

Crestwood Night Out is hosted by the Crestwood Neighborhood Watch Committee. The effort is aimed to "heighten crime awareness, generate support for local anti-crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and united in crime prevention." A winner is chosen by the Crestwood Police Board, along with the Neighborhood Watch Ward Chairpersons.

The Crestwood Neighborhood Watch “Lights on Against Crime” challenge began in 1999. Winners are chosen by neighborhood participation and crime prevention themes that promote awareness in the community. Crestwood Night Out block parties range from simple get-togethers on front lawns where residents visit and learn more about one another, to barbeques, ice cream socials, and children’s parades and games. Most importantly, Crestwood Night Out parties give residents an opportunity to getto know one another better, which aids in neighborhood awareness.

The Crestwood Police Department will be out in force that night, visiting parties, talking with residents, and providing crime prevention information. Also, McGruff the Crime Dog will make the rounds to visit with children.

If you would like helium-filled balloons, you may pick them up after 3 p.m. at the Crestwood Police Department lobby.

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