The National Night Out Knight, official mascot of the activities.

WYNNEWOOD PA – More than 140 Pennsylvania municipalities and organizations – including those in Phoenixville Borough, Pottstown Borough, Royersford Borough, and Spring City Borough – have registered their intent with the National Association of Town Watch to participate in the 27th annual National Night Out (NNO) program being held across most of the country on Aug. 3 (2010; Tuesday), according to National Project Coordinator Matt Peskin.

It’s not too late for other local communities and groups to get in on the act, either.

Any municipality, law enforcement agency, crime prevention organization, community group or neighborhood that wants to join in the activities can contact the association to receive information on the 2010 edition of NNO for everywhere except the state of Texas, which will observe the event on Oct. 5. There is no cost to register.  For registration materials, call 1-800-NITE OUT; or visit the National Night Out website.

National Night Out is intended to:

• Heighten crime prevention awareness;
• Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs;
• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and
• Send a message to criminals, letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Once registered with NATW, based in Wynnewood PA, local coordinators receive an organizational kit full of ‘how-to’ materials, including planning suggestions, sample news releases, artwork, promotional guides, and interim updates.

NNO during 2009 involved more than 36 million people in 14,625 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities, and military bases worldwide. National Night Out 2010 is expected to be the largest ever, and again this year the Target retail store chain is a national corporate sponsor.

Along with traditional outside lights and front porch vigils, many cities and towns observe National Night Out with a variety of special citywide and neighborhood events. They include block parties, cookouts, parades, festivals, visits from local officials and law enforcement, safety fairs, and youth events. Organizing in most communities begins early in the year.

Editor’s Note: The Post is interested in helping to promote all National Night Out activities within its coverage areas. If your community or group has events planned, let us know by e-mail, and we’ll promise to get the word out.

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