August 2 is a Tuesday this year, but not just any Tuesday; it’s the first Tuesday in August, which means it’s time for Charles County’s biggest block party of the year – National Night Out 2011.
The Charles County Sheriff’s Office and residents of more than 150 neighborhoods are scheduled to celebrate their alliance against crime, drugs and violence during the 28th Annual National Night Out (NNO) festivities. Many neighborhoods plan to host block parties with food, games and other activities while other neighborhoods will turn on porch lights to signal their support and participation. The Sheriff’s Office will also host its annual coloring contest for NNO participants between ages 4 and 12.
“Nothing brings the community together quite like National Night Out,” said Sheriff Rex Coffey. “Every year I say I wish I could visit every neighborhood and it’s true. I want to personally thank every person who takes time out of their evening to meet their neighbors and stand with us against crime but since I can’t be everywhere at once, I’ll just have to visit as many neighborhoods as I can.”
Commanders and other Sheriff’s officers will also visit participating neighborhoods and McGruff the Crime Dog and his nephew Scruff will make appearances, too.
Three businesses – the Community Bank of Tri-County in Waldorf, the Waldorf Elks Lodge and Target – have all made donations to NNO 2011. The Sheriff’s Office encourages other businesses to consider participating; ideas include displaying NNO messages on marquees and offering coupons or other prizes for neighborhood games and activities.
Neighborhoods not yet registered participate still have time. For information, call Community Organizer Connie Gray at 301-932-3080.
