The high heat and humidity didn’t deter about 80 adults and children of two adjoining Loma Portal Neighborhood Watch “cells” from coming together for a festive block party, pot luck, sunset watching and camaraderie on Aug. 7 to support the county’s “National Night Out.” The block party was just one of about 10 similarly themed Peninsula gatherings that evening to underscore crime awareness and the benefits of an organized law enforcement/neighborhood connection. Two community relations officers with the police department’s Western Division, who initiated the events with local Neighborhood Watch block captains, dropped by to meet and greet partygoers, and to thank them for banding together and organizing 120 homes as the watchful eyes and ears of the neighborhood. Since 2010, these two Loma Portal cells have witnessed a drop in crime, thanks to their enhanced connections, social gatherings and e-newsletter.  “I love our Neighborhood Watch program,” said Loma Portal resident Elaine Burrell. “I have gotten to know so many more of our neighbors because of our group’s communications and annual activities. Most importantly, though, I feel safer about my kids going around the neighborhood since we’re all sort of watching out for each other.”  Young and old were also treated to a surprise visit from the crew of Engine 15, based in Ocean Beach. For more information on Neighborhood Watch and forming a local cell, visit www.sandiego.gov/police/services/-prevention/programs/neighborhoodwatch.