Local Communities Observe National Night Out Aug. 7

Residents in local communities will be lighting their outdoor lights, spending time on their porches or even having block parties to observe National Night Out tonight (Tuesday).

The crime/drug prevention event, sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, is a chance for neighborhoods and law enforcement agencies to join together to send the message that crime is not welcome.

The event also gives neighbors a chance to get to know each other, share resources, plan future events, swap childcare and figure out if there are elderly people on your block who could use help.

Forest Hills

The neighborhood Crime Resistance Committee will coordinate the 26th National Night Out observance with block parties in from 7-10 p.m.

Members of the Forest Hills police and , and will be patroling the streets to show their support for National Night Out and let criminals know that Forest Hills is actively involved in a neighborhood crime resistance program.

Mayor Marty O’Malley will ride through the community to pick this year’s block-party winners. The judging will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the winner will be selected by the mayor about 9:30 p.m.

Edgewood

To celebrate this event, is encouraging residents to hold “porch parties” from 7-9 p.m. These small, informal events will be anything from a potluck or cookout, to simply sharing a pitcher of lemonade.

Public safety officers will cruise the neighborhoods to introduce themselves.

Those who aren't having or attending parties can also participate by simply getting outside for a walk around the block, or simply sitting on the porch and greeting neighbors as they go by.

Park Place (Pittsburgh)

Neighbors in Park Place will be holding porch parties from 7 to 9 p.m. to learn more about crime prevention programs, meet new neighbors or catch up with old friends.

Did we miss any other events in Swissvale, Regent Square or Wilkinsburg? Feel free to add the information in the comment section.