Thousands Celebrate 32nd Annual National Night Out
Uniting Neighbors, Local Law Enforcement to Help Prevent Crime
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Tuesday night, neighbors in more than 16,000 communities nationwide celebrated the 32nd Annual National Night Out.
“It’s a wonderful time of the year that we look forward to every year, the first Tuesday in August,” laughed Sandy Winklesky.
For the 40th year in a row on this night, her and her husband Gary Winklesky have, once again, opened up their home to the Duluth community.
“It is part of our life,” Sandy said.
“We’ve been doing it way before anybody thought about having a National Night Out,” Gary added.
They had the simple intention of uniting their neighborhood.
“I think that they know that they can come if they ever need us,” Sandy said. “If they have issues, that they can come and share them.”
“We all know each other because of this picnic, so it’s fantastic,” said Lincoln Park resident, Karen Hatfield, who has attended the Winklesky’s barbecue for 17 years.
But Tuesday’s cookout wasn’t limited to just Lincoln Park residents.
“I’m going to try to hit as many as I can,” Tinsley said.
Officer Ron Tinsley with the Duluth Police Department spent National Night Out making his rounds getting to know unfamiliar faces.
He says knowing those who live nearby makes for safer neighborhoods.
“It also lets people know, that are out there breaking the law and involved in criminal activity, that residents of Duluth are not going to tolerate that type of activity,” Tinsley added.
Over the years the event has helped Sandy grow close to members of her local law enforcement.
“They have family and they’re people, not somebody that you have to be worried about and afraid of,” Sandy said.
Neighbors thank Sandy for making their streets a safer place.
“We’ve had no trouble in this neighborhood and it’s because of the community,” Hatfield stated.
And for strengthening the place they call home.
“It’s very important to get to know your neighbors, it’s what life is about,” Hatfield smiled.
