Natchez residents will give crime a &uot;going away party&uot; Tuesday August 1, during the 6th annual National Night Out neighborhood block party.

More than 15 Natchez communities have signed up to participate in the event, which organizers hope it will heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and strengthen neighborhood spirit.

&uot;It’s just a good time and everybody seems to enjoy it,&uot; said Natchez Police Chief Willie Huff.

The event draws neighborhoods together and &uot;reinstates neighborhood awareness and pride,&uot; he said.

This year marks the 17th annual nationwide National Night Out, celebration.

More than 9,000 communities and 30 million people in all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases are expected to participate in what has been described as a &uot;going away party&uot; for crime.&uot;

According to the National Night Out campaign its purpose is to:

–Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness.

–Generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts.

–Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community partnerships.

–Send a message to criminal that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The program is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and cosponsored by the Natchez Police Department.

And Huff said, the program has nearly tripled in size since Natchez first began holding the event 6 years ago.

From 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., August 1, police officers and local officials are invited to visit the different neighborhoods. All residents are encouraged to spend the evening visiting with their neighbors.

Many neighborhoods will host special events such as block parties, cookouts, flashlight walks, refreshments, contests and anti-crime and drug rallies.

Mr. McGruff, the crime dog and Crash Dummies, Vince and Larry will also visit all the sites.

Anyone interested in participating can contact Natchez Police Officer Charles Woods at 445-0194 or 445-5565

The following communities have already signed up to participate.

Old Washington Road

Creek Street Neighborhood Watch

Oak Ridge Manor

Minor Street

Woodhaven Neighborhood Watch

Garden District No. 1 Neighborhood Watch

Brooklyn Apartment Neighborhood Watch

Susie B. West Apartments Neighborhood Watch

Sadie V. Thompson Ruritan

Perry Bruce and residences of Gayosa

Holiday Apartments

Maryland Heights

Kenny Graves

Smith Lane

Woodlawn Community

Linwood Neighborhood Watch