At the Surrey Wood gathering for Bartlett Night Out 2015, Bartlett mayor Keith McDonald accepts a thank-you note and original art from second-grader Bella, who appreciated his recent visit to her school, Altruria Elementary. Photo by Amanda Swain.
Second-grader Bella wrote this thank-you note for Bartlett mayor Keith McDonald. Photo by Amanda Swain.
Bartlett and Shelby County leaders were among the citizens who gathered to “give neighborhood crime a going away party.” In front, from left, are school board member Erin Elliot Berry, mayor Keith McDonald, alderman Jack Young, community relations director Debbie Gelineau and alderman Emily Elliot. In back, from left, are fire chief Terry Wiggins, Bartlett police officer Lt. Todd Halford (who supervises the Public Information and Education division that includes Neighborhood Watch), school superintendent David Stephens and county commissioner David Reaves. Photo by Amanda Swain.
Surrey Wood neighbors relax at Bartlett Night Out and hear a few words from their mayor (center, distant background). Photo by Amanda Swain.
A little boy in the Surrey Wood neighborhood gets to know first responders during Bartlett Night Out. Photo by Amanda Swain.
The Surrey Wood neighborhood was one of many that participated Bartlett Night Out on Oct. 6.
The annual event celebrates neighborhood unity, awareness, safety and police-community partnerships.
Bartlett has more than 60 active Homeowners’ Associations and Neighborhood Watch groups that are managed and coordinated by the Public Information and Education Division of the Bartlett Police Department.
Bartlett Night Out is a time for neighbors to pull out their folding chairs, set out refreshments, prepare for a brief speech or two and chat while the children play nearby as the early fall’s afternoon light fades into twilight.
Knowing your neighbors and getting to know the first responders who serve all is one of the programs’ keys to success.
