Byline: By Susie Steckner, Staff writer
Don't be alarmed if you spot a bus painted like a giant battery touring the city streets
on Tuesday.
No need to call the authorities. They likely will be inside.
The Duracell-sponsored bus will carry local officials such as Police Chief Dennis Garrett or County Attorney Rick Romley as part of National Night Out.
The bus will tour local neighborhoods in Phoenix and Paradise Valley that are holding block parties in the name of fighting crime and promoting crime prevention. Dozens of other events not included in the tour -- both large and small -- are also planned in neighborhoods, apartment complexes and city parks that night.
''National Night Out focuses people's attention on crime prevention,'' said Richard Fox, president of the Phoenix Block Watch Advisory Board. ''It inspires a lot of people to realize that they need to get busy and organize their neighborhood.''
And it forces residents to take responsibility for what happens, and doesn't happen, in their neighborhoods, he said.
''An organized neighborhood is a way to teach people to become self-sufficient,'' Fox said. ''The government can't be responsible for what's going on in my neighborhood because they don't know what's going on. We know.''
The city will kick off National Night Out with an anti-crime march from 7:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Saturday. The nearly 2-mile march will be dedicated to victims of crime and will begin at 5101 N. 43rd Ave. That is the site where 12-year-old Geraldine Gishie was found murdered in April.
Then on Tuesday, neighborhoods across the Valley will officially recognize National Night Out.
The battery bus will make its way through several neighborhoods Tuesday, going from downtown to Maryvale to Paradise Valley. But even if an area is not on the route, residents are encouraged to participate, Fox said.
Events can be carefully planned block parties or progressive dinners, smaller dessert parties or just a front-yard gathering.
Afterward, residents are asked to compile copies of planning notes, fliers and invitation letters, photographs or videotapes to participate in a national competition.
Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, the competition recognizes cities for innovative approaches to fighting crime. Phoenix won the award in 1994.
Entries should be sent to Councilwoman Peggy Bilsten's office at City Hall, 200 W. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85003.
CHART Come together
Suggestions for planning your event for National Night Out.
--> Block party - Check with the Street Transportation Department, at 495-5463, for
information on any street closures you may need. You are responsible for the rental of
required barricades.
--> Potluck/barbecue - Encourage everyone to bring a new dish and share recipes.
--> Pool party - Designate a responsible adult to act as a lifeguard anytime anyone is
in the water.
--> Front-yard gathering - Sit out and enjoy your neighborhood.
--> Parade.
--> Volleyball game.
--> Sing-along.
--> Neighborhood walk.
--> Watermelon bust.
--> Dessert party.
Whatever the event, remember:
--> Turn on your porch lights and light up the neighborhood.
--> Invite local businesses to participate.
--> Plan events for the children.
--> Make it safe.
--> Make it fun.