CRIME PREVENTION Youngstown plans to observe Nation Night Out

By VANESSA SCHUTZ
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Some area residents are working to make their towns safer, and better places to rear children.
Willie Williams and 16 other members of the North Side Eagle Eye Block Watch hope others will join them for the 21st Annual National Night Out events they're hosting Aug. 3.
The Night Out, which the national project organizers expect will draw 34 million participants across the nation, is designed to heighten crime, drug and violence prevention awareness, as well as strengthen neighborhood spirit.
Williams has sent out at least 300 fliers to various people and locations in the community.
"We've contacted every business, every church -- from the mayor's office to the funeral homes -- to let them know about this," Williams said.
More than 10,000 communities nationwide, including military bases, and some Canadian cities will be a part of the anti-crime movement, according to the National Association of Town Watch.
"I hope people realize that there are people throughout the city that are concerned about doing away with crime in the neighborhood and making the city a safer place to raise children and for seniors to enjoy," Williams said.
The North Side Eagle Eye Block Watch, in cooperation with citywide chairwoman Annie Hall, has organized a "Giving Crime and Drugs a Going Away Party."
Scheduled events
A parade will be at 4:30 p.m. Aug. 3 that will start at Elm Street and Madison Avenue. The procession will continue to Wick Park where entertainment, information, activities, games, food and refreshments will be provided.
Several booths by local businesses will be set up, including a blood pressure check performed by St. Elizabeth Health Center.
Williams encourages those unable to attend the event to show their support by turning on outside lights from 5 to 9 p.m.
"If I did a little bit, you did a little bit, everybody did a little bit, it wouldn't be this way," she said. "We can turn this city around and make it a nice place to live."
And her block watch organization hopes this one night will pass on the message to fellow community members and lawbreakers that will last the whole year through.
"And the message is that there are people in this city that are concerned to have unity in this city," she said.
To learn more about the local National Night Out celebration, contact Williams at (330) 743-7436.
New Middletown plans
The village of New Middletown also will join in the National Night Out event with a parade and cookout Aug. 3.
The parade will line up at 5:30 p.m. at Springfield High School on state Route 170. It will begin at 6:30 p.m. and proceed to St. Paul the Apostle Church.
Immediately after, a cookout will be at the Village Municipal Building, with special events for all.
Fireworks at 10 p.m. will conclude the event.
Sgt. Ken Goist said anyone who wants to be in the parade should call him at (330) 542-2846 or leave a message on voice mail at (330) 613-0014.
vschutz@vindy.com