Police Chief Erik Upson (Left) and Mayor Elizabeth Patterson take turns reading a proclamation at Tuesday’s City Council meeting honoring Tuesday, Aug. 7 as National Night Out. The national event, now in its 35th year, encourages Neighborhood Watch groups throughout the country to host special events in their neighborhoods. Such events include front-porch vigils, barbecues, ice cream socials and potlucks. In Benicia, at least 12 neighborhoods are known to be taking part. The festivities will run from 6 to 8:30 p.m. For more information, call Benicia Police Department Volunteer Coordinator Patti Barron at 746-4268. (Photo by Nick Sestanovich)