In keeping with our mission statement, Bella Vista Town Watch (BVTW) is dedicated to helping keep our neighborhood a safe place to live. One of the ways we do this is with patrolling. BVTW is out in the neighborhood patrolling the streets in an effort to make them safer for everyone. The routine is always the same. We meet at the South Street Police Mini-Station on the 900 block of South Street at 9:00pm. We usually walk for about an hour or two depending on the weather and the level of activity on the streets. Wednesday nights are officially designated as "New Member Night". All are welcome and no advance notice is necessary. (Be advised that in the event of severe weather we usually cancel patrolling.) If Wednesday's don't work for you, we have set up Tuesday night as an alternate New Member Night. There are certain to be Board members walking that night too. Because we meet at the Mini-Station, the officers there get to know us and we get to know them. This relationship as well as the relationship we have with the 3rd Police District is an essential part of our patrolling effort.

Patrolling is a fun way to be an active member of BVTW. The "walks" end up being very informative, as they tend to be walking meetings. Neighborhood business is discussed and new problems found. It's a great way to get to know the ins and outs of Bella Vista - especially the many small streets that you may not even know exist! We routinely track graffiti for cleanup, take note of any areas that are becoming dumping spots and often walk by properties that are coming up for a zoning hearing.

So, come out and join a patrol. Not only do you get the satisfaction of giving something back to your community, but you get to meet your neighbors, stay informed about what's going on in your neighborhood, get some exercise, walk your dog and make new friends.