I know it seems confusing. Wasn't the National Night Out in August? Do Texans always have to be different?
Yes. Over the last couple of years, Texans have decided that because the elements are so bad weather-wise for the residents, that it made sense to celebrate the day in October. The first Tuesday in October is Texas Night Out.
According to the National Night Out web page at
www.nationaltownwatch.org, "the annual 'night out against crime' serves multiple purposes: heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back."
Texans historically participated in the National Night Out, but petitioned the group to move the date back. The group agreed because of the heat elements to allow Texas to move their National Night Out back a couple of months.
As a Texan, I am grateful. The night should be filled with events from your local law enforcement agency. I suggest checking with them to see what is planned. If you would like to plan something on your own for your neighborhood, here are some ideas.
Neighborhood potluck
Print out flyers to distribute to your neighborhood. Announce the party but change to wording on many of them so that each person is responsible for a different course. "You are responsible for bringing your favorite dessert, main dish, appetizer, etc." We have a neighborhood that just recently did this because they missed everyone after being out in the streets during Hurricane Ike.
Plan a fall fest
It is October so make the most of it. See if your local grocery store or pumpkin patch would donate pumpkins for the kids to paint. Spend the day raking leaves as neighbors and make a mountain for the kids to jump in. Set out art tables for the kids to make leaf art. Be creative. Take donations or sell cider to make money for a much needed neighborhood item such as lights, etc.
Bake cookies for your neighbors
Every year at Christmas, I bake cookies for our street. Honestly, it is one of the few times we actually talk all year. This year I may use this as an opportunity to meet and catch up.
These are just a couple of ideas. I am sure you have more. Please feel free to leave them in the comment section below. These nights are essential to being in a community. Take time out of your busy schedule and get to know the people around you.
My brother and a few neighbors just recently had their cars broken into in the middle of the night and taken for quite a bit of money. He will be the first to tell you how important it is to come together as a neighborhood, to know your police and to watch out for each other.
Enjoy Texas Night Out this year, Oct. 7, 2009. Be out and get to know those neighbors! No more excuses since the heat issue should be gone!
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