Numerous block parties and gatherings filled the streets in Tacoma and Pierce County Tuesday during the 28th annual National Night Out. The event aims to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and to aid local anti-crime efforts while strengthening neighborhoods and police-community partnerships. The Tacoma Fire Department was invited to 93 neighborhood gatherings throughout its response area for the celebration.  The event promoted neighborhood spirit and heightened awareness to crime prevention efforts. Last year, an estimated 37 million people from 15,000 communities participated in the event nationally. For more information, visit http://www.safest.org .