Pubdate: Tue, 07 Aug 2001 Source: Daily Item (PA) Copyright: 2001 The Daily Item Contact: http://www.dailyitem.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1045 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT Crime And Drug Prevention Programs Planned Tonight Tonight marks the 18th year for the National Night Out, a crime and drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch. Citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from 9,500 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide participated in last year's event. In all, 32 million people participated. Officials are expecting more this year. Along with the traditional display of outdoor lights and front porch vigils, cities, towns and neighborhoods mark the event with a variety of programs and activities. In the Central Susquehanna Valley, at least three police departments will have programs. They are Point Township, from 5 to 9 p.m.; Northumberland, from 6:30 to 9 p.m.; and Milton, from 7 to 10 p.m. The nationwide program is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and generate support and participation in local crime prevention programs. The program sends a message to criminals, letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. In addition, the annual event promotes neighborhood camaraderie, creates police-community partnerships and teaches crime and drug prevention. We are pleased to have three communities in the four-county area taking the time to promote and participate in National Night Out. We wish there were more. Every community should be involved in the fight against drug abuse and crime - not just a few. - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens