Break out the barbecues, mix those margaritas, and putting the finishing touches on your casseroles and side dishes, because National Night Out gets underway tonight around 5:45 p.m.
It all starts with the "Big Block Party" by the City of San Mateo and San Mateo Police Department, from 5-8 p.m., at the , at 725 Monte Diablo Ave. Food will be served from 5:30 to 7:30.
Then, block parties will take place all over the city from roughly 6:30 to 8 or 9 p.m.
Sgt. David Norris said some of the biggest block parties are expected to take place in the 200 block of W. 3rd Avenue, Sunnybrae Park, the 400-500 block of Aragon Boulevard, and the 1600 block of Borden Street, among numerous others.
The inspiration around National Night Out is that, if neighbors get to know one another better, everyone can team up to be more vigilant, look out for one another, and keep their neighborhoods safe, particularly through the formation of Neighborhood Watch groups, which the police department helps residents run.
"When residents on a block know each other, the neighborhood and the community is safer and stronger," said Sgt. Norris.
Norris added that, with a whopping 53 blocks participating this year, it is another record year for San Mateo's National Night Out.
“We are really excited to be bringing National Night Out to the block level," said San Mateo Police Chief Susan Manheimer. "This is a great opportunity for neighbors to get to know each other, and if they aren’t already part of Neighborhood Watch, this will be a perfect time to get one started.”
The Big Block Party at the King Center and several of the block parties have fun activities planned, such as arts and crafts and games, in addition to food and refreshments.
San Mateo Patch will be out and about visiting some of this year's block parties. Hope to see you there!
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