Monday, August 1st, 2011

Its seems like most people only interact with police when they need help or are being issued a ticket (or worse). Tomorrow night, you can get to meet the men and women in blue in a more casual environment (assuming you don’t commit any crimes while you’re there).

@ReporterLeslie has the story on “National Night Out,” an annual event that gives kids and adults alike a chance to mingle with police over burgers and face-painting. Per DNAinfo:

The goal is to build better relationships between cops and the community, which prevents crime down the road, said Officer Jason Harper of the 26th Precinct.

“We create a fun environment where people can approach officers in a relaxed way,” Harper said. “Oftentimes, unfortunately, when people engage with police it’s in a negative way.”

If you’re interested in participating, DNAinfo has the details on where to head tomorrow night:

• The 20th Precinct, whose territory spans from West 59th to West 86th, between Central Park West and the Hudson River, will celebrate at Verdi Square Park, between Broadway & Amsterdam at West 73rd Street from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.
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• The 24th Precinct, which covers West 86th Street to West 110th Street, between Central Park West and the Hudson River, will hold its “National Night Out” at the Happy Warrior Playground, at West 98th Street & Amsterdam from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.
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• The 26th Precinct, which covers Morningside Heights, Manhattanville, and parts of Harlem, will raffle off kids’ bikes from Target, hold a magic show, and feature dance performances and music. There will also be a bounce house for kids and plenty of free barbecue and pizza. The celebration runs from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at Claremont Playground, directly behind Grant’s Tomb, at West 122nd & Riverside Drive.

Filed under: Crime, Entertainment, Events, Free, Kid Stuff, Manhattan, New York City, News, NYC, Seniors, Things to do, Upper West Side, Upper West Side Blog, UWS No Comments »
Tags: Claremont Playground, Crime, Happy Warrior Playground, National Night Out, New York City, NYC, NYPD, Police, Upper West Side, UWS, Verdi Square