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Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) staff joined the Washington Village Pigtown Neighborhood Planning Council (WPNPC) for America’s Night Out (also called National Night Out), a national celebration of neighborhoods on August 1. The 23rd Annual National Night Out was a unique crime and drug prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW).
National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in local anticrime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.
The event took place in the 900 block of Washington Blvd from 6:00 until 8:30 in the evening. MDE provided an informational venue with outreach materials regarding Ozone Action Days, recycling, asthma, lead poisoning prevention, and environmental justice. The department also provided giveaways for the neighborhood children. Attendees included neighborhood associations, community groups and the Baltimore Police Department as well as a representative from Governor Ehrlich’s Office who read a proclamation. WPNPC sponsored a cookout and games with prizes.
This year’s National Night Out campaign involved citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials from over 10,000 communities and all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. More than 34 million people participated.
A traditional outdoor lights display and front porch vigils lined the cities, towns and neighborhoods. Communities celebrated with a variety of block parties, cookouts, police visits, parades, exhibits, flashlight walks, contests and youth programs.
MDE headquarters is located in the Washington Village neighborhood making our efforts with the Environmental Justice Program and EBDs (Environmental Benefit Districts) close to home. MDE is also funding and building the new tot lot in Washington Village, and visiting local schools. MDE was welcomed with open arms and thanked repeatedly for our participation. It was our pleasure to meet our neighbors and represent the agency as part of our community.
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