National Night out in the Nation's Backyard

2008 National Night Out in the Nation’s Backyard washington, dc and the national capital region Highlights from This Year’s Celebration

The regional effort to put on a celebration worthy of 25 years came off without a hitch this year … agencies from across the Washington region showed their cooperative spirit and created a memorable event on The National Mall as well as exciting neighborhood activities across the area on Tuesday, August 5. The weather cooperated, residents came out to thank their police, and communities spent the evening greeting one another and enjoy- ing the atmosphere that National Night Out generates each Au- gust. Congratulations on a job well done!

Number of events: Approximately 350 Approximate attendance: 50,000+ Media Coverage: Excellent Hot Dogs Eaten: Thousands! Water Consumed: 45,000 bottles Hugs Received, Knight: 12,234 Hugs Received, Bullseye: 12,234 Smiles Generated: Hundreds of Thousands Porch Lights Turned On: 452,223 —The National Night Out Planning Team Coming Together as a Region my-award winner Jonny Lang, who closed the show. Between performances on stage, The Kickoff were treated to a host of entertain- the audience listened to brief re- ment and activities, including live marks from Matt Peskin, founder ashington, DC and its music on a 40 x 100-foot stage set of National Night Out and head of surrounding jurisdic- up with the Capitol as the backdrop, NATW, Metropolitan Police Chief Wtions celebrated the 25th free children’s activities, a display Cathy L. Lanier, Congresswoman National Night Out as one region on of police vehicles, and a Commu- Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), US August 5, 2008, as various local, re- nity Policing Showcase staffed by 19 Attorney for the District of Colum- gional, and federal law enforcement law enforcement agencies and the bia Jeffrey Taylor, and Major Gen- agencies joined forces and mount- NATW, the parent organization of eral Errol Schwartz, commander of ed a kickoff on the National Mall. National Night Out. the DC National Guard. Each of the The event drew thousands of resi- The line-up of entertainment on speakers provided their perspective dents and tourists to the grassy strip stage included a host of local musi- of the importance and impact that between 4th and 7th Streets, just a cal talents, including crowd favorites NNO has had on our communities stone’s throw from the United States Origem and Mambo Sauce — both and the nation throughout its 25- Capitol and surrounded by museums originating from the District — and year history. and memorials. Visitors to the Mall national recording artist, and Gram-

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

dia, with seven camera crews, three print reporters, and two radio teams covering the conference.

 The Main Event

The morning of Tuesday, Au- gust 5 dawned bright over the Cap- itol’s dome, heralding a good day ahead for the festivities planned just blocks away. Early in the day, agencies began arriving to set up their booths in the Community Policing A contingent of Honor Guard members from the US Park Police presented the Colors to mark Showcase. Others arrived with their the beginning of the evening. They were joined by Guards from a dozen other law enforcement colorful vehicles ready to display agencies. The presentation was followed by a medley of tunes courtesy of the DC Police Pipes and Drums. on the gravel paths lining the Mall from the stage to 7th Street. Just af- Two large Jumbotron LED dis- gathered in front of the stage to hold ter 10 am, the helicopters from the plays flanked the stage, providing a press conference and media avail- US Park Police and Metropolitan Po- the crowd with an easier view of the ability to help raise awareness of Na- lice Department touched down on speakers and entertainers. tional Night Out and invite the public the western parcel of the event site. The energy and excitement began to come out the next day for the free A crowd quickly gathered around to build early on the Saturday prior to entertainment and activities. The ac- each of them and generated interest National Night Out as preparations tivity behind the podium provided in the event throughout the day. Of- were underway to set up the massive the perfect backdrop for the press ficers reported having hundreds of stage, sound equipment, and other el- event and the weather was spectacu- visitors climb in, take photographs ements of the production. Tents were lar. At the 10 am press event, the ther- being erected, signage was going up, mometer barely and things began to take shape along measeured 80 de- the three-block stretch of The Mall. grees and there The gates identifying the 25th an- was a light breeze niversary drew the interest of tour- blowing across the ists and locals alike as setup teams grassy field be- worked throughout the day. tween the Natio- inal Gallery of Art  Pre-Event Media Day and the Air and Space Museum. On Monday morning, represen- The event The Metropolitan Police Department’s Mobile Operations Center was tatives from more than 25 local and drew a good one of six similar vehicles on display from law enforcement agencies. federal law enforcement agencies showing of me- One staff person said that more than 300 people toured his vehicle.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

loted by members of the Metropol- itan Police, Fairfax County Police, and DC National Guard Drug De- mand Reduction air support units. The show officially began with the introduction of the emcee for the event, Andrea Roane, a news anchor with WUSA-9 TV (CBS). Ms. Roane introduced Chief Cathy L. Lanier, the head of the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, DC. Chief Lanier highlighted the importance that National Night Out played here in the nation’s capital and how it enables her agency to engage the residents of Washington, DC and give them a chance to see the police The Mall played a fitting host to this year’s National Night Out. In early January, organizers envi- in a different light than they typically sioned a “national” kick-off to highlight the 25th anniversary. In addition to great entertainment, do. Lanier then introduced Matt Pe- the gathered crowd got a taste of the diverse ways in which law enforcement in the Washington skin, director of the National Asso- region interacts with their communities. ciation of Town Watch. with, and show their interest in law forcement in presenting the Colors, Peskin, the man who spearhead- enforcement and the work they do followed by a rousing rendition of the ed the creation of National Night each day. National Anthem by Officer Christi- Out in 1984, talked about the im- By 3 pm, most of the exhibitors na Evans of the U.S. Park Police. The portance of building partnerships were ready to greet visitors and ex- D.C. Police Pipes and Drum Corps between police and the communities plain the various ways in which law provided a brief, somber medley of they serve and the history of his or- enforcement agencies engage and ceremonial tunes which introduced ganization. From its humble begin- serve their communities. The crowd the crowd to a spoken tribute to the nings in Philadelphia, the event now began to grow and by 4 pm, when men and women of law enforcement engages more than 35 million peo- the kick-off officially started, the who have given their lives in service ple across the United States, military Mall was swarming with tourists to their communities, presented by bases, and foreign posts around the and residents from across the region the National Law Enforcement Of- world. He expressed his gratitude to who came out to see what NNO was ficers Memorial, located just five the men and women who wear the all about. blocks north of the stage. This Mo- badge with pride an explained how The official program started at ment of Silence was accompanied by NNO started out as a way to thank 4 pm with a brief greeting from off beautiful images of the granite Me- our police officers for their service. stage, announcing the beginning of morial and the thousands of names After Peskin’s brief remarks, the the event. The US Park Police Hon- inscribed on its walls. The tribute music began, with a performance or Guard led a procession of honor was punctuated by a flyover of three by the Washington Performing Arts guards from local and federal law en- helicopters just over the stage — pi- Center Children’s Gospel Choir, fol-

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

Law enforcement agencies and partners from across the region came together to produce the “Community Policing Showcase” to highlight their efforts to prevent and solve crime through strong relationships with the communities they serve. The booths were varied in their presentation, but each provided a sense of the positive initiatives and programs the agencies are doing to reduce crime throughout the Wash- ington area.

and United States Attorney for the been performing Samba, Bossa lowed by the neo-soul stylings of District of Columbia Jeffrey Taylor. Nova, Forro, Afoxe and Maracatu local talent April Sampe. Sampe’s Both spoke on the evening’s theme in the Washington area for over 15 30-minute show included such hits of building community partnerships years. as, “My Favorite Things,” “The Be- and the important role citizens can Origem’s lively beat continued ginning,” and “Go Home.” play in providing information to with the crowd-building sounds During a brief set change at police when they know something of the Urban Nation H.I.P.-H.O.P. approximately 5:15 pm, the crowd about a crime. Choir. The group takes its name heard remarks from Congresswom- The music continued with Bra- from “Hope, Integrity, Power - Help- an Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) zilian sensation Origem, which has ing Our People.” The choir’s mission

The Target Activity Tent featured games and activities for The NNO Knight do-si-does with Bullseye, the Target mascot, children, including a craft where kids decorated their own during Jonny Lang’s set on the National Mall. flexible flyers with colored markers.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

is to “channel the creative and ar- tistic energies of a targeted group of youth into a dynamic, structured group that will foster excellence in all facets of their lives.” The group num- bered in the dozens, filling the stage with young artists dressed in myriad colorful tee shirts. The D.C.-based Choir has graced the stage with other such legendary performers as Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, P. Diddy, Celine Dion, Wayne Newton, Hilary Duff, Denyce Graves, and many more. Major General Errol Schwartz, Jr., commander of the D.C. Nation- al Guard, took to the podium for The Urban Nation HIP-HOP band plays for an enthusiastic crowd. Their blend of hip hop, R&B and gospel sounds filled the air around 4th Street for nearly 40 minutes. the evening’s final remarks at about 6:25 pm. General Schwartz offered his organization’s steadfast support and enthusiasm for National Night Out and provided a brief history of its involvement in the program. The Guard has been a solid supporter of the District’s celebration, providing resources such as tents, equipment, and personnel for many years. At 6:30 pm, D.C.-bred Mam- Clockwise from top left: Matt bo Sauce brought the house down Peskin greets the crowd and with its unique blend of go-go, rap talks about the legacy of National Night Out; Metro- and alternative sounds. Their in- politan Police Chief Cathy Lanier spirations include legendary go-g0 describes DC’s role in celebrating singer Chuck Brown, Rare Essence, NNO; Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton discusses Capitol Jay-Z, Kanye West, No Doubt, Ma- Hill’s role in supporting crime roon 5, The Roots, and The Fugees. prevention strategies across Their soulful, rhythmic beats got the the country; DC National Guard Major General Errol Schwartz, Jr. crowd — and the stage — warmed talks about how the Guard has upfor the final performance of the supported NNO since the beginning; and US first album, Smokin, plays original evening, that of GRAMMY® Award- Attorney Jeffrey Taylor (DC) remarks on the role contemporary American blues and that neighborhoods across the country play in winner Jonny Lang. Lang, who at 13 helping bring criminals to justice and helping gospel music. Lang’s music is not- broke onto the scene in 1995 with his law enforcment prevent crime. ed for his singing, which has been

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

Vanya Scott, Museum Registrar and Collections Manager for the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial chats with US Park Police Officer XXXX as he completetes a survey about the upcomign National Law Enforcement Museum.

compared to that of a 40-year-old off was pleasant and slightly over- Making National blues veteran and for his guitar so- cast, with a light breeze. This was in Night Out Happen los. In more than ten years on the stark contrast to recent years, when road, Lang has toured with the Roll- the measured temperatures in the orking as a region for the ing Stones, Aerosmith, B.B. King, city rose above 100 degrees. first time since National Blues Traveler, Jeff Beck, and Sting. Rain threatened a couple of WNight Out’s inception, In 1999, he was invited to play for times during the four-hour event, the Washington area helped to cre- a White House audience including but with the exception of a few quick ate a special celebration in honor of President and Mrs. Clinton. sprinkles, the evening remained per- the event’s 25th anniversary. Plan- The show concluded with a run- fectly dry. In a town where humidity ning for the event began with an ning list of credits and acknowledge- normally reigns in August, it was a idea submitted to the National As- ments on the LED screens, thanking welcome respite. By the end of the sociation of Town Watch in Janu- all of the agencies and organizations final performance, a beautiful sunset ary 2008. Organizers presented a that made the event a success. was taking shape over the Potomac plan to create a national kickoff cel- River, Washington Monument, and ebration in Washington, DC on the The Weather Rosslyn [Virginia] skyline to the National Mall, with the theme of For the first time in many years, west. “Celebrating National Night Out in the weather at the time of the kick- the Nation’s Backyard.” The plan in-

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

cluded detailed ap- The effort highlight- proaches to marking ed the cooperative spirit the historic occasion our region has and em- and called for the cre- phasized the organiza- ation of a “National tional capacity of many of Community Policing the agencies that brought Showcase,” culminat- it to life. From the assis- ing with a live musi- tance and guidance of the cal performance by National Park Service in a national headliner. ensuring the permit pro- Other ideas included cess went smoothly to the a parade of local and coordination of the heli- regional law enforce- copter flyover with the ment from Freedom Guests enjoyed the display of police vehicles, including MPD’s “Falcon” helicopter. Secret Service, Federal Plaza to the Mall, in- Aviation Administration, viting recognized speakers from the speakers, navigating the permit pro- and U.S. Park Police to the profes- community policing academic com- cess, informing the public, engag- sional event planning team from munity, and other concepts. The idea ing the media, attracting support Target that helped make it all pos- was embraced by NATW and its na- from Congress and political leaders, sible, the event demonstrated how tional sponsor, Target, and planning achieving a waiver to fly over Wash- effective communication can lead to got underway almost immediately. ington, playing the Knight, provid- positive results. The Metropolitan Police De- ing support to VIPs and entertainers, The ad-hoc planning team grew partment took the lead in coordinat- arranging the police vehicles, setting from a few people in early February to ing other agencies from the region up the tents, flying the helicopters, dozens of people by the middle of July. and working with the professional playing Bullseye, handing out liter- The bi-weekly meetings included rep- event planning team from Target to ature, painting faces, running the resentatives from agencies across the develop the concept for this unique kids’ booths, snapping photos, run- region. By the final meeting, the con- event. Beginning in early March, the ning from one end of the Mall to the ference room at MPD Headquarters team steadily grew from a handful other, directing media trucks, and was filled and an additional 20 partic- of dedicated members to more than handling thousands of other tasks ipants joined by conference call. 100 people by the day of the event. throughout the nearly seven months The success of the event would The team included individuals of the planning and execution of the not have been possible without tasked with building the stage, co- event. the tremendous support of all of ordinating and organizing the ex- It may have taken a lot of peo- these organizations and the talent- hibitors, identifying musical talent, ple to make it possible, but the coor- ed and professional staff of the Tar- developing signage, handling logis- dination went off seamlessly. At the get Events and Planning, Marketing, tics, designing the lighting, creat- conclusion of the show on the Mall, Media, and Asset Protection groups ing the activities, mowing the grass, one of the individuals responsible for as well as the experienced team from managing the parking, traffic, and sound remarked that the planning Dufour and Co. and JD Associates, street closures, providing security, was “flawless,” adding that it was the both based in Washington, DC. creating the booths, securing the best show he had worked on.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

Children greet officers during a motorcade stop in Quantico, VA while their parents take some time to get to know others from the department and the community.

Events Around We reached out to local busi- assisted us. The business community the Region nesses for assistance. Target and in Prince William County supports Wal-Mart were our major sponsors crime prevention and the promotion  Prince William but we can not forget the smaller lo- of safer neighborhoods; they are al- County, Virginia cal businesses that helped. These ways willing to assist when possible. businesses were able to provide in We wanted to start spreading This year we held our County kind goods and services that really the word about National Night Out wide event at a location that would early. The event was listed on com- benefit everyone. We chose to con- munity calendars on Insidenova. tinue to host our NNO celebration on com, DC101.com, ABC 7 news com- the Connaughton Community Plaza, munity calendar, DCpages.com, and which is located behind the Prince a few other local radio station web- William County Government build- sites. Our department’s Public In- ing. This was the perfect location to formation Office sent press releases kick off National Night Out because it to the media and created a National is geographically located mid-county A perennial favorite at National Night Out Night Out 2008 link to the depart- events … the artists were volunteers at both and had shaded walkways, room for major County events. ment website. The County govern- vehicle displays, and a stage.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

10 The regional emphasis of the NNO celebration included agencies from outside of Prince William County partnering with us to add to the success of our programs. Here, Stafford County Deputy Jim Hamilton demonstrates the rollover simulator to a crowd of interested onlookers. Communities throughout the region advertised their events to increase participation and support the National Night Out campaign ment’s marquee sign was utilized and the Crime Scene truck. The Vir- Scout organizations, the Voluntary as well to promote National Night ginia State Police attended with their Action Center, Public Works and Out. A display was set up in the lob- crime scene truck and HEAT (Help Clean Community Council. MADD by of the county government build- Eliminate Auto Theft) trailer to per- displayed their trailer and provided ing to promote National Night Out form on-the-spot VIN etching. The literature. The Potomac Nationals and encourage people to turn their Prince William County Sheriff’s De- baseball team had players on hand front porch lights on. The neighbor- partment set up their Child Identi- to autograph items as well as speak hood watches and businesses were fication fingerprinting system. The with fans. SOS shredding was on site sent flyers with details of the event. Prince William County Animal Con- as well to provide free, secure shred- Target posted flyers at their stores trol Bureau attended and set up their ding of personal documents. The fire to inform their customers of the big petting zoo and offered information department displayed their appara- event. On the day of the event, we regarding pets and wild animals. tus and passed out literature on fire posted the 32-foot inflatable Mc- There were sever- safety. These groups were part of our Gruff in front of the plaza to attract al organizations that people passing nearby on the Prince set up display tables William Parkway. such as the Ameri- We had a wide array of activi- can Red Cross, Of- ties at our event, which drew the fice on Youth, the participation of several law enforce- Virginia Attorney ment agencies. The police depart- General’s Office, ment displayed our SWAT truck, local Boy and Girl SCUBA truck, boat, First Sergeant Kim Chinn and her partner, Command One mo- Ariel, make a new friend at the NNO celebra- bile command bus, tion on August 2.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

11 ties throughout tion Unit during this National Night the county. The Out was to not only promote “Crime communities and Prevention” but to reach out to our n e i g h b o r h o o d minority and non-English speaking watches were able populations. This year, we saw an in- to register their crease in participation from these block party so the portions of our community during motorcade could our National Night Out celebrations. stop by. The neigh- There was a noticeable increase borhoods had dis- in the attendance of our Spanish- tinct events. Some speaking population. Emphasis was Special banners bearing the Target mascot “Bullseye” with a badge signi- had dessert socials; placed on crime reporting and per- fying National Night Out’s 25th anniversary were created for the event. others had picnics sonal safety. We felt that this was a business and fleet watch programs. and barbeques. Every neighborhood tremendous success in not only pro- They are extremely committed to had something different to offer moting the Crime Prevention mes- crime prevention and keeping the their community. One area offered sage, but also in strengthening the county a great place to live in. crime prevention literature to the relationship between the Police De- Prince William Home Improve- citizens; another partment and its ment, a business watch, provided in- had a sign-up sheet various ethnic formation about windows. The Ole for neighborhood communities with- Virginia Hams, an amateur radio watch and offered in our county. club that is a member of our fleet fingerprinting for In the spirit watch program, set up a display of the children. One of National Night their equipment. Target was on hand watch had a color- Out, the citizens to provide water, giveaways, and safe- ing contest where of Prince William ty information. Citizens volunteered the kids made posters. All three mo- County continued to demonstrate their time by offering free sno-cones torcades, with three McGruffs, vis- the commitment, dedication, and and popcorn. Another contribut- ited the parties to show the citizens resolve in their fight against crime. ed their DJ services. A face paint- we are glad they support their com- They have made inroads in reach- er offered her services and a moon munity and are taking a stand against ing new ethnic communities that bounce, kiddie games, and dunk crime. The citizens loved the mo- have become part of Prince Wil- tank were available so the kids could torcade of police cruisers and chil- liam County. There continues to be have some fun. Fun characters made dren were thrilled to see the lights a strong and healthy relationship an appearance to meet the kids. We and sirens when we arrived in their between the residents of our com- had McGruff the Crime Dog, Sparky neighborhood. The citizens stayed munities and the public safety agen- the Fire Dog, the National Night Out outside and when the sun started to cies that serve them. Prince William Knight and Uncle Slam from the Po- set, the porch lights came on to con- County endeavors to maintain a tomac Nationals baseball team. tinue to show support for National sense of “neighbors looking out for On Tuesday August 5, 2008, Night Out and the sense of commu- neighbors.” the Prince William County Po- nity spirit and involvement. —Submitted by the Prince William County Police Department lice Department visited communi- The goal for our Crime Preven-

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

12  City of Rockville, Back in Rockville, Mike Copper- installed to brighten that block. Maryland smith of The Recreation and Parks During visits with citizens, Coun- Department ensured all locations cilman Gajewski and Captain Marsh The City of Rockville, Maryland had the required table, chairs and were able to address some of their celebrated National Night Out 2008 barricades. The Parks Department concerns and highlight some of the with 35 events, block parties, and also distributed trash cans and bags efforts the city is making to address other special activities. where requested. long-standing crime and issues facing Mr. and Mrs. Matt McCormick This year, to ensure that all parties the community. They emphasized the — along with their five children — had police presence, six officers were importance that continued support were selected to receive the NNO detailed to six locations each. These and information from the community proclamation from the Mayor and officers were augmented by the Senior plays in fighting crime. They explained Council on July 28, 2008 at 7 pm. Police staff, who escorted the Mayor, that residents regmain a vital link to The Gazette News wrote a one- Council and City Manager around to solving these and other crimes that page article about the NNO annual select NNO party locations. can occur in our communities. crime-prevention events being held We had two McGruffs (ably While visiting the College Gar- in dozens of locations in the City of played by Gabe Lathum and Richard dens Party, assistance was rendered Rockville. The article listed the loca- Scott) who were escorted by Corporals to an injured juvenile from a fall tions of all 35 NNO N. Paul and J. Cra- from his skateboard. Fire Rescue was parties being held mer drove. They requested to assist the injured teen within the City. visited a combined that could no longer stand. Chief T.N. Tre- total of 28 of the 35 In all, Rockville Police Depart- schuk and Lieuten- parties … an excel- ment mounted a successful celebra- ant Alan Rawlins lent job. tion of National Night Out, joining attended the Nation- We also pro- those communities who expressed al Night Out 2008 vided a list of our an interest in our partnership and National Kick-Off Media Event held NNO party locations to Senator Ben making connections with various Monday, August 4 at 10 am on the Cardin’s (D-Maryland) office. citizens throughout the city. National Mall in Washington, DC. Captain Marsh and Councilman —Submitted by Dep. Comm. A.E. Rawlins Corporal Phil Lew and Officer Piotr Gajewski visited Patrick Mancuso represented our 15 sites, met with and agency on Tuesday, August 5 at the greeted people. NNO Law Enforcement Showcase, One citizen from which was held on the National Mall, the 100 block of near the United States Capitol. The Charles Street com- event was hosted by the Metropol- plained of inadequate itan Police Department and spon- lighting in that block. sored by the Target Corporation. It was very dark clos- The event ran from 4pm to 8 pm.The est to the Baltimore officers took one cruiser and set up a Road intersection. table for the display. They interacted They requested an- Rockville resident Diana Rabinowitz chats with with at least 200 citizens. other street lamp be Captain Bob Rappoport at one of the city’s 35 events during NNO.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

13  Bladensburg, Maryland

The Town of Bladensburg, Mary- land (population 7,676) encompass- es just 1.1 square miles, but residents there celebrated National Night Out in a big way, taking the spirit of the night to heart. More than 400 people attended the event, held in the Town’s main square. Highlights of the evening included numerous raf- fles, where organizers gave away bikes, gift baskets, electronics, and a large-screen HD television. Residents get a chance to meet our communications personnel, the voice at the other end of the Children and adults participat- phone, in addition to the officers who respond to their emergencies. ed in a water balloon toss. Winners of the contest received bicycles (for cream, and funnel cakes. A DJ pro- children) and auto gift baskets includ- vided entertainment and got folks ing a steering wheel lock (for adults). motivated to dance and sing along. Youth from across Prince George’s The evening succeeded in bring- County participated in a teen Com- ing together a wide variety of people, munity Emergency Response Team cultures, and talents. Our event was (CERT) exercise, demonstrating the successful thanks to the efforts of Some of the many items raffled or given away discipline, leadership, and skills nec- many volunteers and local support as part of the prizes for contest winners. essary to be a part of the program. of our business community, who do- Residents enjoyed free beverag- nated the prizes, food and drink. es, hot dogs, chips, Sno Cones, ice —Submitted by Sergant Scott Davis

Participants in the water balloon toss take measure of their partners’ location, aim, and fire. The winners took home a new bike.

Members of the Teen CERT team show off their tee shirts and enthusiasm. Prince George’s County School Board and Town Council members praise youth volunteers.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

14  Joint Force HQ National Capital Region Military Police Installations

National Night Out is a civic crime prevention program that the Joint Force Headquarters, Military District Attendees pay a visit to Fort Belvoir Special Response Team Vehicle (left) . A parade of fifteen of Washington fully supports in its in- Federal, State and Local Law Enforcement vehicles mark the opening of the 2008 Fort George G. tent to “take back the streets” to make Meade National Night Out. them safe for families. This year, the command’s Provost Marshal Office -fa cilitated the participation of all military installations in the National Capital Re- gion to join in with local event organizers in support of the National effort. The Fort Belvoir Directorate of Emergency Services (DES) celebrat- Left: COL James A. Peterson, Directorate of Emergency Services, Fort George G. Meade, signs the National Night Out Proclamation opening the event. Joint Forces Headquarters Military policemen ed the 25th National Night Out with and DA Police prepare to support the Mall event with DC National Guard General Schwartz (right). booths, a bike rodeo, games for the kids, food and water. The Army Police, Pentagon Federal Protection than 5,000 attendees. The Meade event base, located south of Mount Ver- Agency, NSA Police, Anne Arun- included a helicopter, Military and NSA non in Virginia, estimates that ap- del County Police, and the Maryland Working Dog Demonstrations, Stra- proximately 300 people came out to Transportation Authority. tegic Response Team (SRT) demon- celebrate the event with them. The event started with a parade stration, Civil Disturbance Equipment Fort Meade’s DES celebrated the throughout the entire installation, an demo, and many other activities. 25th National Night Out with support Army base located between Baltimore Marine Corps Base Quantico from the Aberdeen Proving Ground and Washington, DC. They had more celebrated the event with booths, K-9 demos, an SRT demo, and children’s games (bouncy castles, dunk tanks, snow cones, and free ice cream). Boy and Girl Scout groups provided displays. More than 1,000 people joined in Quantico’s celebration. Andrews Air Force Base celebrated at the base Youth Center. Organizers held a MWD demon- stration and Sparky the fireman and McGruff the Crime Dog each made appearances. Various agencies displayed police sedans and fire trucks Fort Belvoir Attendees enjoy the moon bounce and dunk tank game. for visitors to peruse and explore. An estimated crowd of 100 attended. —Submitted by Dave Walton, JFHQNCR

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

15  Montgomery County, sic, and free food. The event drew a Maryland good crowd, including members of the County Board of Supervisors. Along with the traditional dis- Nearly a dozen communi- play of outdoor lights and front ties and apartment complexes held porch vigils, communities across events open to their residents, in- Montgomery County celebrated the cluding free activities at community 25th anniversary of National Night swimming pools, community cen- Out with a variety of events geared ters, and other facilities. toward helping neighbors get to Olney Town Center, in the Fourth know one another and build com- District, showed off displays on community spirit. munity policing, had music from a lo- In the County’s First District, cal radio station, and provided free Entertainers came out to provide a festive organizers mounted activities, dis- food to the dozens of citizens who atmoshpere at many of the County’s events. plays, food, and music in the parking came by to check out the event, locat- lot of Stoney Mill Shopping Center. ed at Spartan Road and Route 108. ed diverse fun for all ages. A DJ from local Hispanic radio sta- In the Fifth District, residents Touch football, moonbounces, tion Radio Mundial spun Latin fa- and visitors to Ridge Road Park near art projects and grilled hamburgers vorites and other music to get the Routes 27 and 355, were treated to and hot dogs made up the offerings crowd moving. More than 15 officers visits by the Montgomery Coun- at many local community events in and civilians helped in the prepara- ty Police helicopter, K-9 dogs, and the 6th District. Local restaurant tions for this event. horses. Free food, recreation de- Antojitos provided free food for the partment activi- lucky residents of Gaithersburg Olde ties, and other Towne community. fun things for Overall, Montgomery County guests rounded participated in National Night Out out the event. with more than 20 events, hosting The City appsroximately 1,500 residents and of Gaithers- visitors. The police department spon- burg sponsored sored many of these activities and events at Mal- Chief J. Thomas Manger visited over colm King Park 10 events throughout the night. and the Gaith- At nearly all of the events, res- ersburg Middle idents shared their enthusiasm for School. At both the partnerships they have built with Officers enjoyed meeting residents — young and old — from across the County throughout the night. of these events, the police. More than 1,500 people officers dis- across the County enjoyed the free The Enclave Apartments host- played police equipment and dished food, entertainment, and opportu- ed the Second District’s event, fea- out free ice cream. A DJ provided nity to meet their police. turing child fingerprinting, bicycle eclectic musical offerings and a soc- Submitted by Asst. Chief Betsy Davis and Commander Darryl McSwain registration, crafts, swimming, mu- cer clinic and other activities provid-

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

16  National Law after all.) Enforcement Officers National Night Memorial Out was a wonder- ful success for the Thousands of DC-area residents NLEOMF. We got and out-of-town (and out-of-coun- a chance to meet try) visitors stopped by the National some great law en- Mall yesterday to celebrate the 25th forcement support- anniversary of National Night Out ers and interact with Target, the DC Metropolitan with a staple of the Police Department, and Memorial National Mall and Fund and Museum staff. of Washington, DC With everything from a Junior — tourists! With Activity at the National Law Enforcement Museum’s booth attracted a myriad of visitors – even an independent TV crew stopped by to check Forensic Scientist fingerprint ac- clipboards in hand, out the fun! tivity booklet to free photographs Museum team behind cardboard replicas of real members approached visitors with ebrated National Night Out 2008 - Museum artifacts, our exhibit boast- questions about their impressions in DC or any other city! The key to ed some of the highest visitation of of law enforcement movies and TV keeping our neighborhoods, and our any booth at the event! (Okay, we shows — the characters, the plots police officers, safe comes from the just couldn’t beat the free cold bot- and the scenes that have come to way we all work together — families, tles of water that Target employees shape the way we view law enforce- communities and law enforcement. and volunteers gave out in the center ment today. —Submitted by NLEOMF Staff of all the activity! It is August in DC, Thank you to everyone who cel-

Kids of all ages were excited to try on the Mu- seum artifact pop-ups - how does she look?

Junior forensic scientists examined the patterns of their fingerprints as part of the Museum Education Program’s fingerprint activity booklet.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

17 WASHINGTON, DC

Celebrate National Night Out in the Nation’s Backyard

Tuesday, August 5 The National Mall Washington, DC

Come celebrate 25 years of community and police partnerships with your neighbors and friends. Fun activities for all ages. See demonstrations of community policing and technologies. Free games. Music. Entertainment. Learn about ways to protect yourself and prevent crime in your neighborhood. Meet Bullseye™ and the National Knight.™ Gates open at 4 PM.

Presented by Target For more about NNO and what’s happening in your community, visit www.nationalnightout.org

ALEXANDRIA PD • AMTRAK POLICE • ANNE ARUNDEL CO PD • ARLINGTON PD • BERWYN HEIGHTS PD • BLADENSBURG PD • BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, FIREARMS AND EXPLOSIVES • CH- EVERLY PD • CITY OF BOWIE PD •COURT SERVICES AND OFFENDER SUPERVISION AGENCY • COTTAGE CITY PD • DC OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL • DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION • EDMONSTON PD • FAIRFAX CITY PD • FAIRFAX COUNTY PD • FALLS CHURCH PD • FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION • FEDERAL PROTECTIVE SERVICE • FREDERICK PD • GAITHERSBURG PD • GREENBELT PD • GSA POLICE • HYATTSVILLE PD • INTERPOL • LEESBURG PD • LOUDOUN COUNTY PD • LOUDOUN COUNTY SHERIFFS • MANASSAS PD • MANASSAS PARK PD • METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT • METRO TRANSIT POLICE • MILITARY DISTRICT WASHINGTON • MONTGOMERY COUNTY PD • MOUNT RAINIER PD • NATIONAL GUARD • NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS MEMO- RIAL • NAVAL CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIVE SERVICE • POSTAL INSPECTION SERVICE • PRETRIAL SERVICES AGENCY • PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY PD • PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY PD • ROCKVILLE PD • SEAT PLEASANT PD • UNIVERSITY PARK PD • US ARMY RESERVE • US ATTORNEY (DC) • US CAPITOL POLICE • US GPO POLICE • US MARSHALS SERVICE • US MINT POLICE • US PARK POLICE • US SECRET SERVICE

Promoting and get the perfect image to promote about what could be happening. Or- National Night the partnership, all of the agencies ganizers took the opportunity to pro- Out were invited to be a part of a special mote the event in August. photo shoot set on 3rd Street near The image was captured with the Celebrating National Night Out The National Mall on June 32 . aid of a bucket on a DC Fire and EMS as a region gave the Washington area The image captured that day fea- ladder truck positioned in the gravel an opportunity to generate interest tured law enforcement from more along the Mall to get the photogra- in the events on many levels. The re- than 30 agencies and organizations, pher up off the ground. Also featured gional planning committee developed including federal and local partners. in the photo is the National Night a flier to promote the events on The Although it was a hot day, the sky was Out Knight and banners promoting Mall featuring the names of all of the beautiful and large billowy clouds the 25th anniversary. agencies that were involved in the ef- framed the US Capitol perfectly. The Other efforts to raise awareness fort and would be participating in the gathering of marked police cruisers included highlights in newspapers, event on August 5. and specialized vehicles drew quite calendar listings, fliers, and commu- To draw attention to the event the crowd and invited speculation nity and agency Web sites throughout

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

18 the region. Independent newspapers helped promote the region’s celebra- PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY POLICE DEPARTMENT NEWS RELEASE tion. Some of these examples are st Contact: 1 Sergeant Kim D. Chinn Officer Erika Hernandez Phone: 703.792.7245 703.792.4159 e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] shown at right. FAX: 703.792.6510 703.792.4555 Cathy L. Lanier Chief of Police Adrian M. Fenty Target’s Media team also July 30, 2008 Mayor FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE REMINDER: County Police Observe 25th Anniversary played a vital role in promoting of National Night Out on August 2nd

National Night Out through its PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, VIRGINIA . . . The Prince William County Police Department will host a County-wide observance of the 25th annual “National Night Out” at the Sean T. Connaughton Plaza adjacent to the James J. McCoart Administration Building on Saturday, multi-faceted media campaign. August 2, from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. Join us and help give neighborhood crime and drugs a “going away party!”

Activities at this free, family event include: displays of police and fire equipment, games, Advertisements in major news- displays by groups providing community services; hotdogs and refreshments, a moon bounce, give-aways, Animal Shelter personnel and their Children’s Educational Farm animals, free car papers and magazines directed Celebrate Nationalseat safetyNight checks and McGruff Out the Crime Dog. "National Night Out" is a unique crime- and drug-prevention event that is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch. It is designed to: heighten crime and drug prevention people to the NNO website for in Your Communityawareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit; and send a message to criminals that citizens are watching. To support Tuesday, August 5 community and police partnerships and Neighborhood Watch programs. information on the celebrations In Neighborhoods Across County residents are encouraged to joinDC us for the “Party on the Plaza.” If you can’t join us In celebration of the 25th Anniversary of National Night Out, there,the Metropolitan lock your doors, Police turn Departmenton outdoor lights and spend the evening of August 5th outside with being planned across the coun- is sponsoring events in each police district. Choose from oneyour of neighborsthe events as below a symbol and that join you your care about your neighborhood. You do not have to be part of an established Neighborhood Watch to participate! neighbors in honoring 25 years of community and police partnerships. try. Locally, ads appeared in The For more information, call the Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit at 703-792-7270. FIRST DISTRICT FOURTH DISTRICT Sherwood Rec Center SEVENTH DISTRICT 5–9 PM Paul Public Charter * * * end * * * 640 10th Street, NE 5–9 PM Ballou SHS Washington Post, Washington 5800 8th Street, NW 5–9 PM Carolyn Smith / (202) 698-0513 3401 4th Street, SE Officer Irene Hughes / (202) 715-7476 Lendia Johnson / (202) 698-1454 Times, and other daily papers. SECOND DISTRICT FIFTH DISTRICT SPECIAL LIAISON UNITS 17th & Church St, NW 5–8 PM Ft. Lincoln Rec Ctr 5–9 PM Latino Liaison Unit 1700 block of Church St. will be closed 3100 Ft. Lincoln Drive, NE 2–9 PM 1800 Columbia Road, NW Plaza Radio ads also ran highlighting Sergeant Gwen Mapp / (202) 438-8453 Fayette Vaughn-Lee / (202) 698-0188 Sgt. Carlos Mejia / (202) 673-4445 NATIONAL NIGHT THIRD DISTRICT SIXTH DISTRICT Kennedy Rec Ctr 6D COMMUNITY NNO and inviting people to join 5–9 PM Sixth District HQ 1401 7th Street, NW 5–9 PM Fairlawn Civic Assn OUT 100 42nd Street, NE 7–9 PM Marco Santiago / (202) 671-6604 Minnesota Ave and Good Hope Rd, SE Meet the National Night Out Julia Irving / (202) 698-1315 in the celebration on The Mall Julia Irving / (202) 698-1315 15948 DonaldKnight and otherCurtis characters Drive x Woodbridge x Virginia 22191 A NATIONALLYAugust ACCREDITED LAW ENFORCEMENT2, 2008 AGENCY OR JOIN THE REGION FOR THE NATIONAL KICKOFF and elsewhere. Come to the National Mall at 4th Street for a celebration with the entire Washington region. Fun activities for all ages. See demonstrations of com 1:30pm to 5:30pm munity policing and technologies. Free games. Music. Entertainment. Learn- about ways to protect yourself and prevent crime in your neighborhood. Meet Bullseye™ : and the National Knight.™ Gates open at 4 PM.Come and join in our annualCounty-wide “America’s Nationalevent Night Out Against Crime” To learn more about NNO, visit www.nationalnightout.org At the Connaughton Community Plaza (between the McCoart Building and Development Services Building at County Complex Court)

Police & Fire Vehicles Face Painting FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY! Giveaways McGruff Dog LOTS OF SAFETY EXHIBITS Moon Bounce Safety Displays AND DEMONSTRATIONS PWC Agency Displays Games & Food Animal Control Petting Zoo Following this event your local baseball team, the Potomac Nationals, is having a home game with first pitch at 6:35pm. Free hat night with fireworks after the game. A fun-filled day for the entire family!

partnership with Police Department in Sponsored by the Prince William County the Prince William Crime Prevention Council and the Potomac Nationals

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

19 Media Coverage

The coverage of this year’s celebration across the region was excellent in both pre- and post-event media ex- posure. Many local newspapers highlighted the events being mounted in cities and towns across the region, some beginning two or three weeks in advance of the events. Radio stations provided pre-event teasers and short reports, and the major broadcast networks did a thorough job of promoting the events both on The Mall and around the region on the day of, pre- dominantly on the various early- morning shows, but also throughout ing the 25th anniversary by doing live four major broadcast networks, rep- the day. WUSA-9 featured several sto- shots from the Mall on the morning resenting coverage from both city and ries during their broadcasts on August of August 4, covering the press confer- suburban locales, including the coun- 4 and 5 (one of the statin’s anchors, ence that day, and interviewing peo- ties of Fairfax and Prince George’s and Andrea Roane, served as emcee for the ple celebrating throughout the region the town of Riverdale. Mall event), but the other local outlets on August 5. In all, more than a dozen also did an admirable job of spotlight- broadcast hits were generated on the Coverage was good for the Mall event, usually serving as an opening to stories on National Night Out. Reporting then focused on the District’s All Hands on Deck initiative, along with a report of a barricade in Prince George’s County and a homicide in Riverdale.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

20 Media coverage was good in both newspaper and broadcast channels, covering the diverse neighborhoods and activities across the region.

NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

21 NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

22 NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION • 2008 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT POST-EVENT REPORT

23 Thank You

The Washington region’s celebration of National Night Out included many partners from law enforcement, public safety, and community service organizations. Their dedication and cooperation made these events possible.

ALEXANDRIA PD • AMTRAK POLICE • ANNE ARUNDEL CO PD • ARLINGTON PD • BERWYN HEIGHTS PD • BLADENSBURG PD • BUREAU OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, FIREARMS AND EXPLOSIVES • CHEVERLY PD • CITY OF BOWIE PD • COURT SERVICES AND OFFENDER SUPERVISION AGENCY • COTTAGE CITY PD • DC OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL • DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION • EDMONSTON PD • FAIRFAX CITY PD • FAIRFAX COUNTY PD • FALLS CHURCH PD • FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION • FEDERAL PROTECTIVE SERVICE • FREDERICK PD • GAITHERSBURG PD • GREENBELT PD • GSA POLICE • HYATTSVILLE PD • INTERPOL • LEESBURG PD • LOUDOUN COUNTY PD • LOUDOUN COUNTY SHERIFFS • MANASSAS PD • MANASSAS PARK PD • METROPOLITAN POLICE DEPARTMENT • METRO TRANSIT POLICE • MILITARY DISTRICT WASHINGTON • MONTGOMERY COUNTY PD • MOUNT RAINIER PD • NATIONAL GUARD • NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS MEMORIAL • NAVAL CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIVE SERVICE • POSTAL INSPECTION SERVICE • PRETRIAL SERVICES AGENCY • PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY PD • PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY PD • ROCKVILLE PD • SEAT PLEASANT PD • UNIVERSITY PARK PD • US ARMY RESERVE • US ATTORNEY (DC) • US CAPITOL POLICE • US GPO POLICE • US MARSHALS SERVICE • US MINT POLICE • US PARK POLICE • US SECRET SERVICE

The Regional Planning Team would also like to thank Target for its generous support of National Night Out Presented by and law enforcement throughout the nation. Target

Produced by the Office of Communications