Contact:
Katherine Perez, Chief or
John Nesky, Deputy Chief
Bowie Police Department
301-575-2480

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 10, 2007

The Bowie Police Department Receives “Rookies of the Year Award”
for its National Night Out Program

The Bowie Police Department earned “Rookies of the Year” honors for its 2007 National Night Out program. The National Association of Town Watch and the Target Corporation, which jointly sponsor the National Night Out Program, recently notified the City of their selection. The Bowie Police Department was one of only twelve programs nationwide to receive this recognition.

Bowie’s National Night Out program was held on the first Tuesday in August at the Baysox Stadium. Over 1,000 individuals braved stifling temperatures to meet their new police officers, learn how to keep themselves safe and enjoy free entertainment and food. The purpose of National Night Out is to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for local anticrime programs and strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, and to send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and willing to take a stand against crime.
The award was based on several criteria, including the overall National Night Out campaign, the level of neighborhood and law enforcement involvement, the media and promotional campaign, and the uniqueness and effectiveness of the local event.

Deputy Chief John Nesky planned the 2007 event and was excited to receive the national recognition. He says, “The award is a testimony to the strength and commitment of both the community and the new police department. I was amazed by the level of enthusiasm and participation that I received from both the businesses and residents of Bowie. It was truly a group effort. The event was the culmination of hard work and community partnerships. Those partnerships have continued to grow and we are looking forward to many more National Night Out events.”

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