"Neighborliness" was never a real word until Bob Smith coined it and made it meaningful many years ago. But it’s a real good way to describe what happens when neighbors get together.

And nothing has more neighborliness than the 20th Annual "Night Out Against Crime" on Tuesday, August 5. There are quite a few happenings on that night. We hope your block or street is included, because it’s a lot of fun and can be very informative.

Call your Block Captain if you want you and your neighbors to participate. Then call the Storefront so we can include you on our list. 538-8148. We have much useful information to hand out. And, you’ll want to be on the list for visits from Officer Paul Lennon and firefighters and paramedics (if possible).

At this writing, we have news of block parties in Westwood, Oaks North, Seven Oaks, High Country West, Bernardo Heights and Swim and Tennis. Be sure to call us - 538-8148 - to tell us the locations and starting times of these parties. Also, remember to pick up safety, security and fraud handouts or call Charlie Arnold if you need something you don’t see on the display board or if you need large quantities.

Want ideas for your party? In the past In Rancho Bernardo, neighbors have been getting together in many different ways for the event. Dessert and coffee, ice cream socials, BBQs, potluck suppers, even progressive parties from one house to another.

Your block captain will be there to talk about the latest information from the Police Storefront and the crime stats from the Neighborhood Watch staff, to pass out new Information Sheets to make sure they are up to date and to deliver the August eNEWS.

It’s a fun and informative night for everyone. And a particularly wonderful way to introduce new neighbors.

On Thursday, July 24 and Saturday, July 26, Neighborhood Watch gave presentations to over 125 interested participants in the Community Room of the RB library. Block Captains and interested parties were invited to listen to and participate in informative talks given by the leaders of Neighborhood Watch in RB. Community Relations Officer Paul Lennon; Gary Carlson, District Coordinator of Swim & Tennis (District D); Tim Dodge, District Coordinator of Westwood (District A); Mike Gray, Coordinator for High Country West (District G); Fritz Wolff, Staff Technical Coordinator and Charlie Arnold, Office Manager; and myself, RB coordinator.

An introduction is in order for two new District Coordinators in Bernardo Heights (District F) and Westwood (District A).

Bernardo Heights will be represented by Anna Marzouk of Via Tavito; Stan Racik had to resign, but will be helping her, as will Pat White and Annette Miller. To help, contact her by email at amavanti@aznet.net/

Westwood will be coordinated by Tim Dodge of Andanza Way. He is vitally interested in lowering the crime in Westwood and needs the help of block captains and interested residents. Contact him by emailat: tdodge@aznet.net/