Mark your calendars now for Tuesday, August 2, because that’s the evening of the most popular BWNA event of the year: the all-neighborhood National Night Out Picnic in Wilshire Park. The event has three main purposes: first, to unify the neighborhood via a potluck picnic extravaganza; second, to participate with other neighborhood associations around the city and country in recognizing that active and connected neighbors, in collaboration with police and firefighters, are a key and primary deterrent to criminal activities and the best way to provide us with secure neighborhoods; and third, as a summer replacement for BWNA’s August general meeting (the next general meeting is October 10).
Beginning at 6:30 p.m., the grills will be heated up and ready to go for the free buffet dinner in Wilshire Park picnic areas A&B, located just southwest of the pavilion. As always, the event is a great way to enjoy tasty grilled burgers and hot dogs with all the trimmings and condiments, courtesy of the BWNA. Local businesses assist by contributing refreshments and other goodies, and each participating individual, couple, or family is asked to bring food to share for the smorgasbord tables (e.g., chips & dip, salads, veggies, fruit, pizza, desserts). And don’t forget the free raffle featuring prizes generously contributed by local businesses. (Stay the evening and go home a winner!)
The BWNA Board is also working on providing both entertainment and activities and prizes for the kids. And for those willing to put their talents on display at the picnic—be it dancing, gymnastics, music, singing, magic tricks, whatever—by all means do so, because local talent adds a lot to the neighborhood-wide experience. If interested, contact John Sandie at president@bwna.us or 219-508-4162. Additionally, in keeping with the National Night Out Picnic theme, invitations are extended to police and fire department personnel requesting their participation, including a canine officer and his hero canine plus firefighters and their fire engine—a delight for young and old alike.
Attendance the last couple of years has fallen off a bit, and it is hoped that more neighbors will make it a priority to take part in this family-friendly gathering. So spread the word to friends and neighbors, and let’s come together as a neighborhood!