More than 200 people turned out for the eighth annual Crime Watch and Prevention Rally on Oct. 10 in Miami Gardens.

The event was a joint affair and included Crime Watch organizations from the Pentab, Norwood, Scott Lake and Brentwood neighborhoods.

``When we all come together like this we build a strong base to do what we need to do. And, our endeavor now is regaining the streets,'' said Wendell James, president of Brent- wood Crime Watch.

The rally began eight years ago as a block-party styled function, spearheaded by Marjorie Speicher, president of the Pentab Crime Watch.

It was designed to show community appreciation and unity.

The rally included music presented by the Norland High School band, as well as several award presentations. Virginia McLean and Jennifer Chen-kee were given citizenship awards and Officers Joe Bradwell and Luwani James from the Miami Gardens Police Department were both recognized for their organizational efforts and work with the Crime Watch groups.

``It's great to do something like this because you got everybody here, all the generations. Just look, you got kids, moms, grandmas, everyone. That means [the Crime Watch is] going to grow,'' Bradwell said.

Most agreed that through the efforts of the Crime Watch organizations, crime has decreased. There is still work to be done, however, and the groups need to be more visible.

``Our motto right now is, `Now it's time, down with crime,' that's our focus,'' Speicher said. ``We have to continue to be the eyes and ears of the community so people feel safer.''

Currently, each of the Crime Watch groups has more than 30 members and meets once per month.

For information on joining any of the groups, call Bradwell at the Miami Gardens Police Department at 305-474-1432.

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