National Night Out provided opportunities for community building

Last night was National Night Out and communities from across the country celebrated by closing off streets, having block parties and meeting with local policemen in an effort to make their community a better place. The 400 Block of Arsenal in the Holy Cross neighborhood of Indianapolis held its 5th event for National Night out.

National Night Out Celebration

All across the country neighborhood groups got together for National Night Out.

We were part of the "night out" festivities in the Holy Cross neighborhood where our Indy house is. The 400 Block of Arsenal has been putting on this event for several years and despite the almost 100 degree heat index, about 30 residents braved the heat.

Streets are closed off so the kids can play and local police officers stop by so they can meet the residents. These linkages are important so the local police officers know the people that they serve in the community and local residents know who to call and who patrols their area.

Indy Jazz Artist Gregg Bacon, who used to live on the block, performed for area residents. You can learn more about his music at http://www.greggbacon.com/

One of our newest residents, who is originally from china also serenaded the audience with a traditional Chinese instrument,(which i couldnt even begin to pronounce so I wont try). She and her husband are restoring a classic Craftsman house up the street.

It was a great time and even thought it was very hot, it was great to see all our friends out in one place.

National Night Out Parties held

Neighborhood organizations , community groups, and block clubs from across the country got together last night for National Night Out Block Parties.

The party brings neighbors out to get to know each other better and to meet members of local law enforcement. These parties are part of community Crime Watch programs.

After really bad weather earlier in the day in Indianapolis, the skies cleared and the 400 block of N Arsenal got together for their annual block party.

The street were closed off, The grill was fired up, and neighbors turned on their front porch lights and partied until well past dark.