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, potluck, sunset watching and camaraderie recently to support the countywide “National Night Out.” This was one of several like gatherings on the Point, designed to underscore crime awareness and the benefits of an organized law enforcement/neighbor-hood connection. Two community relations officers from the police department’s Western Division, who initiated these 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 this particular neighborhood. Since 2010, these cells have seen a welcome drop in crime thanks to their enhanced connections, social gatherings and an 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.”
Participants were also treated to a surprise visit from the crew of Station 15, based in Ocean Beach. For more information, visit www.sandiego.gov/police/services/prevention/programs/neighborhoodwatch.