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In some ways, it seemed like another party. But West Bank residents attendingannual Night Out Against Crime gatherings say they are putting criminals on notice that their communities are off limits.

From Algiers to Avondale, residentsjoined forces with police officers, firefighters, elected officials and community leaders to remind themselves of their strength in numbers.

“The people here have come together as a whole,” said Jacquelyn Foley, president of the Lincolnshire Neighborhood Association in Marrero where 100 to 250 people were expected. “We’re an old neighborhood. The people want peace.”

Foley said crime is down 60 percent in her community because residents no longer fear calling police when they see crime happening.

Pastor Sterling Mealancon of Progressive Church in Marrero said his congregation has tackled blight and environmental cleanupin the community off Ames Boulevard to uplift residents and eliminate the places where criminals used to hide.

“We are aggressively involved in this community,” he said.

Staff writers Andrea Shaw and Michelle Hunter contributed to this report.

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West Bank residents send strong message during Night Out Against Crime