Twin Cities take top spots in Night Out activities

Star Tribune

Last update: November 18, 2008 - 11:38 PM

Minneapolis and St. Paul reign when it comes to participation in National Night Out events. The City of Lakes finished first in the category for cities with a population of 300,000 or more, and St. Paul took top honors for communities with populations between 100,000 and 299,999.

IN MINNEAPOLIS: This year marks the sixth time in eight years that the city finished first in its category. More than 60,000 residents gathered at 1,111 events held to increase neighborhood spirit and bring people together to develop anti-crime and drug programs. San Antonio finished second.

IN ST. PAUL: St. Paul won a blue ribbon, moving up from its third-place finish in 2007, while Rochester moved up to third this year from fifth in 2007.

CLOSE, BUT NOT CLOSE ENOUGH: Minnesota's strong showing, with at least one city in the top 10 in each of the five population categories, was not enough to win the National Night Out Award conferred by the National Association of Town Watch, the sponsoring organization. It awarded the blue ribbon in the state category to Texas. Last year, Minnesota and Texas tied for the top spot.

AROUND THE STATE: Minnesota cities dominated the category for communities with 50,000 to 99,999 people, claiming seven of the top 25 spots: Brooklyn Park in fifth, Maple Grove in seventh, Burnsville in eighth, Blaine in ninth, Coon Rapids in 13th, Apple Valley in 18th and Lakeville in 23rd.

New Brighton finished second among cities with populations between 15,000 and 49,999. Roseville was in seventh, followed by Brooklyn Center in 10th, Lino Lakes in 17th, White Bear Lake in 21st, Maplewood in 22nd and West St. Paul in 27th.

In towns with populations of less than 15,000, Minnesota was represented by St. Paul Park in ninth and Ada in 17th.

TIM HARLOW