Wildwood Enjoys a “Night Out” Against Crime

PRESS RELEASE

Wildwood's National Night Out drew a steady stream of visitors to Fox Park on Tuesday, August 2nd, for the Annual Crime and Drug Prevention event.

An estimated 1,500 local residents, visitors, children of all ages, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, local organizations and local officials participated in the event.

The popular gathering 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 sends a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

“National Night Out is a great opportunity for local residents and children to interact with law enforcement personnel in a positive way,” stated Commissioner of Public Safety Anthony Leonetti. “A safe environment is essential to Wildwood’s future success and only with the cooperation and assistance of the community can we achieve this goal.”

The event featured law and public safety demonstrations and educational displays, a visit from a New Jersey State Police emergency response helicopter, pony rides, dunk tank, games and activities, and dozens of prizes given away during a free raffle, along with complimentary food and refreshments.

Officers Spencer Smith, Karree Grauel and Susan Lashley of the Wildwood Police Department coordinated the law enforcement participation in the event.

The organizing committee included representatives from the Greater Wildwood Municipal Alliance, Wildwood Police Department, Cape Assist, Greater Wildwood Kiwanis, Wildwood Public Works and Wildwood Fire Department.

Several dozen organizations, individuals and businesses contributed door prizes, refreshments and funds. The Wildwoods Convention Center, Boardwalk Special Improvement District and the Greater Wildwood Elks provided substantial in-kind and monetary donations. A strong cooperative effort among the many participating organizations and individuals contributed to the event's success.

For more information about the National Night Out program, please visit their website at: www.nationalnightout.org/nno/.