The sun shined Saturday on a group of residents who launched the Citizens on Patrol event with an afternoon walk in their Lindenwald neighborhood.

About 20 men, women, children and two pooches walked along Pleasant Avenue as part of the Lindenwald Community Council, PROTOCOL (People Reaching Out To Other: Celebrate Our Lindenwald). The effort was in response to the more than 60 people who attended a February meeting and expressed concern about area crime.

While Lindenwald is a safe place to live, there has been a uptick in crime and “it could be better,” said co-chairman Frank Downie, co-chairman.

Downie, who lives on Brough Avenue, said there have been five break-ins and thefts in his block in the past year. Concerned residents are wanting to show both concern and a presence in the community, he said.

“You know, maybe we can just get to know more of our neighbors,” Downie said, noting they are not looking to make

apprehensions, but just keep any eye on things.

Maureen Kollstedt is leading the group’s neighborhood watch effort. Kollstedt and her dog, Bella, walked in the first patrol from Woodlawn to Laurel and back.

“Keeping an eye out for each other can really help,” said Kollstedt, who worked in Hamilton Police Department records division. “It is not about being a nosey neighbor, but realizing when you neighbor works all day and someone shows up with a van and starts moving things out, there may be a problem.”

Kathy and Bob Meyer participate in the patrol.

“It’s a good thing to do,” said Kathy Meyer.

Nancy and Kevin Steuart moved to the Lindenwald neighborhood because it is a save, affordable community. They want to make sure it stays that way.

“This is a good way to meet more of our neighbors,” Nancy Steuart said. She added for her the walk is about showing “more of a sense of community.”

Hamilton police are help with the neighborhood watch and provided tips for keeping crime down. Downie said more Citizens on Patrol walks may be happening this spring and summer.