VALLEY TO TAKE AIM AT CRIME.

Byline: ANGIE VALENCIA-MARTINEZ Staff Writer

San Fernando Valley residents will gather tonight at various take-back- our-neighborhood events that bring police and neighbors together to fight crime.

National Night Out will be held at locations across Los Angeles to heighten community awareness and strengthen participation in Neighborhood Watch groups and other local anticrime activities.

In the Valley, events include picnics, block parties, peace walks, candlelight vigils and Neighborhood Watch meetings.

``We all come together as one and take a stand against crime in our community,'' said Senior Lead Officer John Smith, who is organizing the North Hollywood program at Laurelgrove Park for the first time in several years.

``It's a way for us to say as a community that we're taking back our streets.''

The annual, national event is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, local law enforcement agencies, businesses and community groups, and focuses on the partnership between police officers and community members to reduce crime.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa is scheduled to make an appearance at West Valley Park. The West Valley area, one of seven communities in the nation to be awarded an All Star award by the National Association of Town Watch for their participation, drew in 1,400 people last year.

Free hot dogs, hamburgers and drinks will be available. There will be prizes, fingerprinting of children and informational booths.

``It's going to be the best event in Los Angeles,'' said Nancy Sweeney, a member of the organizing committee. ``Come participate and become aware of what's going on in your community.''

The theme at West Valley is Stop Crime and every adult in attendance will receive a key chain in the shape of a stop sign with the LAPD's (877) phone number.

In Valley Village, residents are invited for a night of food and entertainment followed by a symbolic walk around the neighborhood.

``We want would-be criminals to know that we are going to be watchful,'' said Ginny Hatfield, Valley Village event coordinator. ``This is a good opportunity to form relationships in the community so that in times of disasters you know who people are.''

The following is a list of some of the events in the San Fernando Valley:

West Valley Park, corner of Vanowen Street and Wilbur Avenue, Reseda, 6-9 p.m.

Laurelgrove Park, corner of Laurelgrove Avenue and Erwin Street, North Hollywood, 6-9 p.m.

Andres Pico Adobe, 10940 Brand Boulevard, Mission Hills, 5-8 p.m.

Valley Village Park, corner of Magnolia Boulevard and Colfax Avenue, Valley Village, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

For a list of National Night Out events, go to www.lapdonline.org.

angie.valencia(at)dailynews.com

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