Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1546636
Submitted by Pastor Dan Clary One of the things I value most about Terramor is the way neighbors look out for one another. We don't want to be a neighborhood that is fearful. We want to be a neighborhood that is connected. Neighborhood safety doesn't mean constantly watching for something to go wrong. Often, it's simply about noticing. Maybe your neighbor accidentally leaves their garage door open at night. A quick text can help. Perhaps you know a neighbor is traveling and notice a package on their porch. Offer to bring it inside or secure it for them. Or maybe you haven't seen a neighbor who normally takes a morning walk. A simple check-in to say hello can be an important act of being a good neighbor. If someone says there is an emergency involving a family member, call that family member directly. If someone claims to be from your bank, hang up and contact the bank using the number you normally use. If someone comes to your door unexpectedly, it is perfectly okay to speak through the door or communicate through your Ring doorbell while you verify who they are. There is no need to be rude or fearful. Simply take your time. Never feel pressured to open your door. We live in a community full of people enjoying travel, visiting family, and making memories. Here's a simple suggestion: wait until you return home before sharing vacation photos on social media. Sharing that you are away can unintentionally let people know that your home is unoccupied. Before leaving town, consider asking a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your home. Let them know they can bring in a package, check on your home, or simply let you know if something seems unusual. Neighborhood Watch should never be about deciding that someone "doesn't belong" simply because we don't recognize them. Families have visitors. Caregivers come and go. Contractors and cleaning services work in our homes. Delivery drivers are here every day. New residents are moving into our community. Most importantly, we need to pay attention to concerning behavior—not someone's appearance or simply the fact that we don't recognize them. If something doesn't seem right, there is no expectation that you investigate or confront anyone. Stay safe and contact the appropriate resource. When people hear the words "Neighborhood Watch," they may picture someone peeking through the blinds and keeping tabs on everyone. That is not what I envision at all. I see neighbors knowing their neighbors. I see people sharing information with trusted neighbors with whom they have developed relationships. Most importantly, I see us creating a neighborhood where people feel comfortable reaching out to one another. In 30 years of law enforcement, I have certainly learned a lot about safety, and I am always willing to help. But I have also learned that strong communities are not built on fear. They are built on relationships, awareness, kindness, and people who are willing to look out for one another. May God keep us safe and I hope to see you around the neighborhood. TERRAMOR BEYOND THE GATES | FALL 2026 7 Neighborhood Watch: Connected, not Fearful