Bronx residents came together Tuesday evening to mark the 25th annual National Night Out Against Crime. The event started out as a night when people were expected to turn off all the lights in their houses and sit out on porches in a sign of protest against violence. Over the years, the National Night Out, which takes place throughout the five boroughs, became a way to strengthen the ties between police and the local community. Organizers of the festivities say the main goal of the event is to send a message to criminals that neighborhoods will stand together and fight back.?We really do need to come out in force to help the community come together and stop all the violence,? says Maggie Torres, a Bronx parent.In the course of the festivities, people were able to get information about anti-crime programs, enjoy food and mingle with officers that serve their communities.Bronx Borough President Adolfo Carrion Jr., Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly also joined the National Night Out festivities in the Bronx.