The city of Aurora is urged all its residents to turn on a porch light and meet their neighbors for Tuesday’s National Night Out.

Neighbors gathered for the event billed as “America’s Night Out Against Crime,” in cul-de-sacs, parks, driveways and block parties throughout Aurora. For more than 30 years, the event has encouraged residents to lock their doors, turn on their outside lights, and spend the evening getting to know their neighbors, demonstrating a united front against crime, drugs and violence.

“In light of this weekend’s unfortunate events, it is critical for us to remember how important it is for our community to continue to work together. Aurora has made great strides over this past decade and we cannot and will not tolerate backwards steps to our progress,” said Mayor Weisner. “It takes every one of us to keep Aurora safe. National Night Out is yet another opportunity to send the clear and direct message that we will not accept crime and violence in our neighborhoods. It’s more than an annual celebration. It is an important collaboration to keep Aurora second to none.”

Each year, Aurora police officers and city staff members visit local National Night Out events that range from small gatherings to large neighborhood block parties. The events, though informal, build trust and relationships between neighbors and law enforcement that deter crime.

“The connection between our law enforcements officials and our residents is integral to keeping our community safe and moving forward. When you open lines of communication, you immediately strengthen the quality of life in our neighborhoods,” said Aurora Police Chief Greg Thomas. “The Aurora Police Department has worked diligently over the years to serve and protect the people of Aurora. We remain just as vigilant today and encourage all of our residents to do the same as we stand together against crime.”

Among events that took place in Aurora this year are:

Georgetown Relief Efforts Neighborhood Organization (GRENO) held their 10^th annual National Night Out Celebration from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Georgetown Elementary School, 995 Long Grove Dr. The event is one of the largest celebrations in Aurora and features free food, live music, and children’s activities.

Aurora Township staged its annual National Night Out event from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Aurora Township Youth Center, 313 Gale St.  It featured food, youth and senior activities and games, a visit from the Aurora Township Fire Department, and more.

Aurora’s Hometown Neighborhood celebrated with ice cream, volleyball, and other events from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Hometown Park, 1721 Town Center Dr.

The residents of Cinnamon Glen and Country Oaks hosted an informal gathering for the Big Woods/Marmion Neighborhood on the city’s northeast side from 7 to 9 p.m. at Prairieview Lane South between Stanton Court and Preston Court.

Residents of West Downer Place hosted a gathering in the 700 block of West Downer Place, from 7 to 10 p.m. Tuesday.

SOURCE: city of Aurora