Across the city last night, neighbors united for a purpose: To celebrate the good work being done in their neighborhoods to keep them safe from crime.

Organizers and participants called National Night Out 2012 a success. Arlington recorded more than 125 registered neighborhood activities.

Acting Police Chief Will Johnson described the night as a "phenomenal experience."

"Throughout the city, the effort and energy from neighbors coming together were unmatched by years past," Johnson said today. "It was amazing to see all of the good work being done to reduce crime citywide."

From the north to the south, and many areas in between, people of all ages were out in their neighborhoods, sharing information and meeting with police officers. City Manager Trey Yelverton and Arlington City Council members were also out greeting neighbors gathered in parks, in cul de sacs and on front lawns.

Representatives from Code Enforcement, the Fire Department, Library, and Parks and Recreation also had a visible presence.

At the Salvation Army Life Center on Abram Street, officers united with families and case workers. Director Martin Jackson said the night brings about more public awareness about personal safety.

On the north side of the city, one Arlington apartment community joined with two other properties to celebrate and talk about ways to keep crime down.

"Overall, it was a great night," said Elizabeth Mimms, manager of the Heather Ridge Apartment Community on Burney Oaks Drive.

On the west side of the city, neighborhoods dismantled by tornadoes earlier this year, had a bigger reason to come together. Residents of the Overland Stage Estates celebrated rebuilding efforts and met their neighbors who are Citizens on Patrol and Crime Watch Coordinators.

"We encouraged everyone to get involved with us, participate and support continued efforts to prevent crime," said Event Co-Chair Arthur Dennis.

The Arlington Police Office of Communication turned up at several block parties, tweeting photos of neighbors connecting with one another. See the highlights on Twitter and Facebook.

If you missed National Night Out, no worries! Now is a good time to start planning for next year.

By Cheryel Carpenter