Town to host its first National Night Out Aug. 2

For the first time, Lombard will be participating in the "National Night Out" campaign on Tuesday, Aug. 2.

NNO is a community outreach effort to promote neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships focusing on safety. Now in its 28th year, NNO has proven to be an effective, inexpensive and enjoyable program to do just that.

The Lombard Police Department, in cooperation with the Lombard Park District, Tri-Town YMCA and Target Corporation, will host the NNO at Lombard Common and Paradise Bay Water Park from 5-9 p.m. During that time, the following activities will be available for attendees:

-- Free swimming at Paradise Bay Water Park, 7-9 p.m. (up to capacity.)

-- DJ Tony "Flashback '50s" music and contests.

-- Free gifts and refreshments, first come, first served.

-- Police, fire and public safety displays.

-- Free door prize drawings, including a bike donated by Target Corporation.

The NNO program is designed to heighten crime, drug and tobacco prevention awareness; generate support for and participation in local anti-crime programs and sends a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

Last year, all 50 states participated in the NNO, according to Lombard Police Lieutenant Roy Newton.

"More than 37 million people in communities across America participated last year," said Newton. "It would be awesome to see a nice showing of people from our community to join in the success of the program," he added.

Anyone with questions about NNO may visit the official website, www.nationaltownwatch.org or contact Newton at (630) 873-4483.