With a last minute addition to the schedule, there were nine different neighborhood stops for the National Night Out festivities in Escalon on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

The annual ‘take Back the Night’ event against crime and drugs, designed to strengthen police-community partnerships, was a success, according to organizers.

Stops were hosted at Saron Lutheran Church, Chardonnay Court, Lydia Street, Matthew Court, Mission Street, Jonathon Drive, Sophie Lane, Oakwood Drive and Alicante Court.

“Overall I think it went great, the only downfall was running late,” said organizer Sara Cardoso of the Escalon Police Department. “Not sure how we lost track of time, maybe because we were busy eating and catching up with all the neighbors. The good thing is we made it to all the stops and everyone, especially the little kids, were welcoming and very happy to see us.”

Originally scheduled from 6 to roughly 8:45 p.m., Cardoso said the caravan finally wrapped up the night just after 9:30 p.m.

“We had a little bit of every department there including Public Works staff and McGruff the Crime Dog,” added Cardoso. “Overall it was a great night.”

Police, fire, ambulance, city council members and city personnel all took part in the caravan.

“National Night Out was a great night,” agreed City Manager Tammy Alcantor. “We all enjoyed each stop, and there were many attendees at each of the nine stops. It is always a pleasure to get out and enjoy the community at the event.”