On Tuesday, Suffolk residents will once again take to the streets and neighborhoods to send the message that crime will not be tolerated.

The 22nd Annual National Night Out event will kick off locally at 5:30 p.m. that day at Constant’s Wharf Park and Marina

City officials, public safety and law enforcement officials, as well as concerned seniors, youth and business partners will embark on a motorcade to tour neighborhoods across Suffolk.

National Night Out is sponsored by The National Association of Town Watch (NATW) and it is expected that more than 34 million people across the country will participate to send a powerful message about neighborhood unity, awareness, safety and police-community partnerships.

Suffolk residents can take particular pride in that their community has been recognized for several successive years for putting on one of the best National Night Out events in the country for cities of comparable size.

And this year should be no different. Among the local communities participating with events ranging from ice cream socials and flashlight walks to block parties and street dances include

Holland, Hall Place, Olde Towne, Kingsboro at Coulburn Park, Kempton, Pughsville, Whaleyville, Colander-Bishop, John F. Kennedy Athletic Field, Wilson Pines, Chorey Park, Parker-Riddick, East Suffolk, Lake Kennedy, Hoffler, Woodlake, South Suffolk – Pleasant Hill and Mary Estes Park, and Huntersville

Suffolk is growing and every-changing. Events such as National Night Out are an important part of getting newcomers acquainted with their neighbors, our police officers and the values we hold dear.

We encourage everyone to take a little time on Tuesday, lock their door, turn on their porch light, and join in the fun for a good cause.