PHOTOS: National Night Out in Greater Elkridge

Behind the gates to New Colony Village, a celebration took place Tuesday that was one among thousands nationwide.

The neighborhood hosted a party around its clubhouse for National Night Out, which is a day to heighten crime prevention awareness, encourage participation in local anti-crime programs and strengthen police/community partnerships.

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The National Association of of Town Watch (NATW) founded National Night Out in 1984 to involve communities in crime prevention.

According to NATW, more than 15,000 communities took part this year. In , 28 neighborhoods hosted events, according to the Howard County Police Department, which kicked off the evening with its helicopter, mounted patrols and chief at the .

"We had an overwhelmingly positive response from citizens at parties throughout the county," said Sherry Llewellyn, spokeswoman for the Howard County Police Department.

"People were genuinely enthusiastic about meeting new officers and getting to know our staff and volunteers. Our members appreciated the opportunity to interact with citizens in a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere," said Llewellyn. "It was a success all around."

This article was updated at 11:15 a.m. to include comment from police.

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