Block Watch Captains take on a big responsibility for their neighborhood – but don’t get paid, and don’t always get appreciated. Last night, the West Seattle Block Watch Captains Network‘s first-ever BW Captains Appreciation Party was an attempt at remedying that – inviting captains and their guests to a free catered dinner, with music, and dancing. And words of gratitude, from Mayor Mike McGinn – who thanked the captains, saying, “You answered the call for your community” – and police (for whom the mayor had appreciative words too, as he went on to discuss the May 30th shootings):

Among those in our clip (unintroduced, since they were hosting!) were WSBWCN’s leaders, two women who are captains themselves, Karen Berge and Deb Greer:

They made last night’s party happen, too, along with a committee of other volunteers lining up grants and sponsors (WSB joined in, which is why our banner’s in the background of this next photo).

Speaking of banners, WSBWCN has a new one too, shown off at the party (which was at the VFW Hall in The Triangle):

No Block Watch in your area? Here’s how to form one. To get involved with WSBWCN, keep an eye on their website for meeting info – (updated) next one is Tuesday, June 26, 6:30 pm, at the precinct (Delridge/Webster).