Neighbors take a night out to campaign

Fighting crime, drugs and gangs in Bonita Springs is a big job that the Bonita Partnership for Compassion doesn’t want to face alone.

That’s why the group hosted a National Night Out Against Crime in association with the Police-Community Partnerships this week.

“It’s a really nice way to thank our law enforcement, fire and code enforcement for what they do for the community,” said city spokesperson Arlene Houston.

The night put a focus on crime prevention by including a walk through Bonita neighborhoods closest to Riverside Park.

“It’s wonderful to see all the neighbors out here,” said Pam Newman of Bonita Springs. She is retired from the sheriff’s office and had never attended a walk before.

An estimated 200 people came out to the event which included handing out Frisbees, chalk and summer fun items that educate people on the importance of keeping their eyes open.

“We have to show people that you have to stop the crime and drugs,” said Estevinito Ramirez, 42, of Rosemary Park. He brought his small children who helped hand out candy and paper fans.

“We have to tell the community that we should cooperate so these things don’t happen,” he said.
Jean Byrnes handed out free hot dogs, sodas and chips to attendees.

“We are doing this because it’s wonderful to be out in the neighborhoods and seeing everybody mingle,” said Byrnes of Bonita Springs. She was stepping in at the hot dog stand for mayor Jay Arend.

He presented awards and thanked sponsors like Target and Salvation Army of Lee County for showing their support.

“They are here to tackle issues apart from the other things they do but they know they need to do with quality of life issues,” said Arend to the crowd just before the walk he led that started at Childers Street and ended at the park.