Community, first responders celebrate National Night Out
Taylor residents stepped out of their homes and onto their block this week.
The Taylor Police Department hosted its annual National Night Out Tuesday, Oct. 3. A country-wide event, the campaign celebrated its 40th anniversary this year.
Rather than taking place in a specific setting, there were 13 different block parties throughout the city. Residents who participated in the festivities gathered at a designated park, yard or driveway to enjoy time with those who live around them.
“I just remember as a kid knowing all the neighbors and people you could go to for help if you needed something,” said Jennifer Walters, a resident who hosted a block party. “It’s not like that anymore. We’re kind of searching for that. I know it’ll probably never be like that again, but to be able to meet the neighbors gives me that warm and fuzzy feeling I had when I was a kid.”
National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, strengthen neighborhood spirit and policecommunity partnerships and generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts.
Police officers and firefighters joined the festivities by celebrating with the residents to introduce themselves.
Each first responder appeared at about three of the block parties.
Lucy Vermeulen, 2, takes a seat in a Taylor fire truck. Photo by Hunter Dworaczyk
Residents of Avery Glen check out the Taylor Fire Department Fire Truck during National Night Out. Photo courtesy of the city of Taylor
(From left) Assistant Fire Chief Bobby Copeland, Taylor PD Sgt. Sam Brister, Fire Chief Daniel Baum and Taylor PD Detective Aaron Koch stop by the National Night Out block party held at The Grove subdivision. Photo courtesy of the city of Taylor
Participants who signed up to host a block party received supplies from the Taylor Police Department, such as snacks and National Night Out merchandise.
Photo by Hunter Dworaczyk
Angelina Shelton (left) and Catherine Rochez enjoy a National Night Out Block Party on Jason Drive. Photo courtesy of the city of Taylor
Noah Arellano, 4, learns the innerworkings of a fire truck during the National Night Out on Drake Ln. Photo by Hunter Dworaczyk
