National Night Out activities are springing up everywhere as cities, like Suffolk, nationwide prepare for large block parties scheduled for Aug 3. But make no mistake; this is not all about fun and games.

For 21 years, NNO has gone to great lengths to forge partnerships between citizens and police to raise safety awareness, draw attention to crime prevention; facilitate community unity and better acquaint residents with the role of law enforcement.

This is a good thing.

If they have not already, Suffolk communities should join the ranks of neighborhoods that participate in NNO. It’s a good way to meet your neighbors, and to mingle with law enforcement officers under the most pleasant circumstances – a rare opportunity.

Regardless of the reason, some people are leery of police officers. But for the past several years, Suffolk Police have diligently worked to erase this image from citizens’ minds. The city has benefited tremendously from the department’s proactive approach to increasing visibility throughout the community in roles expanding beyond responding to crime scenes.

Suffolk has won national awards the past few years for its National Night Out efforts. It gets bigger and better every year. You owe it to yourself and your community to join in the fun.