Ballwin and Ellisville Police to Celebrate 'National Night Out'

The Ballwin and Ellisville police departments this week announced 2011's “National Night Out,” when neighborhoods throughout the country are encouraged to open up and have some fun while also serving a greater cause.

The first Tuesday in August, National Night Out encourages residents everywhere to get to know those living around them. With food, games, activities for kids and more, the block-party styled events are  meant in part to familiarize neighbors with each other well enough to be able to identify a non-resident when they’re in the area, Sgt. Nancy Walker of the Ellisville Police Department said.

“It’s just a way for the neighbors to get out and get to know each other, and talk about concerns they have in the neighborhood,” Walker said.

Since its inception in 1984, National  Night Out has grown from drawing about 2.5 million people across 23 states to 37 million people in every state in the U.S. There is no cost to register for the event, and anyone can participate. Local coordinators will receive an organizational kit with how-to materials, including planning suggestions, artwork and promotional guides to help spread word about their event.

Ballwin Police Officer Dan Hawk said sponsors such as Target in Ballwin previously have donated beach balls or other party favors to the events, which depending on the schedules and locations, usually have representatives from the police department on hand.

“They might even get out and chat with the neighbors and just see how they are,” Hawk said.

The 2011 National Night Out is scheduled for Tuesday, August 2.

Ballwin residents interested in participating should contact Officer Sarah Bonsee or Officer Dan Hawk at 636-227-9636 or via email at dhawk@ballwin.mo.us to schedule an event or get information about existing events.

Ellisville residents interested in participating should contact Sgt. Nancy Walker at 636-227-7777 or via email at nwalker@ellisville.mo.us or online by downloading the registration form. Residents are asked to return the form by July 26, 2011 to officially register their area and to receive a friendly visit from the police and Ellisville city officials.