Recycle bins, folding chairs, and cardboard boxes blocked off dozens of Ballard intersections August 5th as hundreds of families took to the streets to celebrate the 25th Annual National Night Out. All Across America, Canada, and on military bases far afield such parties were organized to heighten crime and drug awareness, to generate support for local anticrime programs, and to have some neighborly fun.

It was a perfectly mild and sunny evening in Ballard and by 6 p.m. neighbors were helping neighbors assemble folding tables, lay down colorful table clothes, and set down potluck food, from barbecue, to cheesecake with fresh blueberries sprinkled on top. And while parents prepared the food and fun, it seemed the children ran the show.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT is designed to:

Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;

Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;

Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and

Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

To learn more about this effort and annual event visit them on the web

http://www.nationaltownwatch.org/nno/