Every August for the past 26 years, Americans across the country have celebrated National Night Out.  The initial purpose of these events was to combat crime and drugs by encouraging neighbors to turn on their porch lights and step outside to discourage criminal activity.  They have since become wonderful gatherings in our neighborhoods.  More than in most other parts of Montgomery County, Rockville has embraced the concept of these block parties.  Under Chief Terry Treschuk’s leadership, there tend to be several dozen around the City each year.

Neighborhoods from Twinbrook to the West End, from Woodley Gardens to Fallsmead and others all had events this week.  There were kids and grown-ups, all enjoying food and fellowship.  Food ranged from burgers and hot dogs grilled by a block captain to pot luck with each neighbor bringing a home-made specialty.  A couple of the parties featured a Moon Bounce for the kids, while others had raffles and other games.  While some were held in parks or by a swimming pool, others were simply hosted in front of a cluster of homes.

Regardless of the menu options or venue, there was a common denominator: friendly neighbors who care about their community, getting to know each other better.

Ingredients like those make a perfect recipe for a candidate for office!  In a relaxed atmosphere, I attended ten parties (down from my record of 17 several years ago) across our city.  I was able to engage in conversation with residents I knew as well as folks I did not. Sitting in their own neighborhoods, I heard stories about their families and issues that concerned them.  I met a little girl who used to be afraid of police officers due to their scary sirens.  Tonight, she met one and thought he was nice.  I saw neighbors from different backgrounds who have lived here a long time or are new to the City, learning from each other.

The news reports on the unfortunate incident in Cambridge MA between the police officer and the renowned Harvard professor focused primarily on race.  Overlooked by many in the discussion is the possibility that well-meaning neighbors might be hesitant to look out for each other.  National Night Out helps to establish and enhance relationships in our neighborhoods.  If we know who is supposed to be entering a neighbor’s home, we will know whether the police need to be alerted.

We all owe our thanks to the police department (and particularly Ken Matney, the Community Resources officer) and to the neighbors who organized the events this year.  If you missed out this year, perhaps you’ll consider attending or hosting one next August?

For more information about National Night Out, visit this site and consider attending or hosting one next year!

Cheryl Kagan

This contributor opinion is by Cheryl Kagan. Cheryl Kagan, a former member of the Maryland House of Delegates, is a candidate for State Senate in District 17. 

This is a contributor opinion. Rockville Central encourages readers to submit such opinions for consideration — the more voices the better. We especially welcome people who disagree with us. We ask that all such contributions be civil and we reserve the right to edit (in consultation with the author) or reject. Contributor opinions should not be seen as reflecting opinions held by Rockville Central editors, as they are just as frequently at odds with our own views. That’s the whole point!