SFPD Central Station's edition of National Night Out, held last night, was a huge success, attracting more than 1,000 people. The event was held in the parking lot of the Salesian Boys' and Girls' Club and the 600 block of Filbert Street, which was closed to display police and emergency vehicles.
National Night Out is a nationwide event is held on the first Tuesday of August, designed to connect communities with their local law-enforcement agencies. This year's edition was Central Station's biggest ever, with dozens of agencies and community groups on hand. Attractions included a bounce house shaped like a fire truck, free health screenings from Walgreens, a raffle, and a cookout with burgers and hot dogs.
Lisa Michelis and Trish Herman of North Beach Neighbors, with Lucca Giancarlo.
Another big attraction was Safe-T-Proof's earthquake simulator, which was both fun and frightening for those who hopped inside. McGruff the Crime Dog was also on hand, riding a Segway and posing for photos. Piles of brochures on public safety, crime prevention and how to get involved in the community were on offer. Neighbors chatted and joked with each other and law-enforcement officers, and caught up with old friends.
Rocking and rolling in the earthquake simulator.
Stan Hayes, president of Telegraph Hill Dwellers, with District 3 Supervisor Julie Christensen.
SFPD Central Station Capt. David Lazar was on hand all night, talking to neighbors. "Today has been an incredible National Night Out event in the Central District, where we have had a record number of law enforcement agencies, community groups, nonprofits and disaster preparedness organizations that have all come together to build a partnership and take a stance against crime and to prepare for disasters in our community," he said. "I'm grateful to the Community Police Advisory Board and all the volunteers that made today happen."
Capt. Lazar, right, meets the neighbors.
Aline Estournes and Troy Campbell of the Central Station Community Police Advisory Board.
Also in attendance was Deputy Chief Garret Tom, who was Central Station's captain for two years before Lazar took the helm in May 2014. "It's great coming down here, because I used to be a member of the Salesian Boys' Club for seven years," he said. "Central is the heart of the city; it's got my heart." Tom, who grew up at Union and Kearny streets, worked in Central for 13 years over the course of his career.
Deputy Chief Garret Tom.
North Beach residents Jenny and Roman Coppola came to join the fun with their children, who loved the bounce house and earthquake simulator. "We live in the neighborhood and we love when there are community activities," said Roman. "We appreciate that there's a nice gathering of the community. It's a nice, sunny day and we're seeing some neighbors. It's a nice excuse to have a chance to gather."
