Highland Park Police to host National Night Out Aug. 3

Submitted by the city of Highland Park

The city of Highland Park Police Department, in partnership with the Park District of Highland Park and area not-for-profit organizations, invites the community to the fourth annual National Night Out event Tuesday, Aug. 3.

Designed to engage families with police officers and other service agencies in a fun, family-friendly environment, the event will begin at 6 p.m. on the front lawn of city hall, 1707 St. Johns Ave., Highland Park. The event is free and open to the public.

National Night Out is held annually on the first Tuesday in August in cities across the country as part of an effort to build bonds between neighbors and first responders and to raise awareness about drug use prevention and public safety. Crime prevention and community advocacy organizations will be in attendance and will share information about their services.

Planned activities include a drone display, an obstacle course and other games, Touch a Truck, and a new Pitchburst game that will let individuals "dunk" Highland Park police officers, firefighters, public works staff, elected officials, the city manager and other volunteers with water balloons.

Thanks to the participation of the Lake County State's Attorney's Office's service Labrador Browser, children will also learn how specially trained dogs keep communities safe from cybercrimes. In addition, the Highland Park Historical Society will open the Francis Stupey Log Cabin to visitors.

Other planned activities include a police car selfie station, an obstacle course, a bouncy house, a DUI/texting while driving simulator, a petting zoo and a bucket toss.

Music for the event is provided by the Bitter Jester Music Festival, and will feature Leo Sclamberg and the Angels of Duality.

"We are thrilled to once again bring the community together for National Night Out," Chief of Police Lou Jogmen said. "This event is an unparalleled opportunity to build partnerships between officers and the community, and to foster open communication and develop lasting trust with the people we serve."

As part of a grant to bolster the city's efforts to encourage biking and safe sharing of the road, Highland Park Police bike officers will share tips for safe riding and provide information about the rights and responsibilities of drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

Members of the city's Bike Walk Advisory Group will share information about ways riders of all ages can enjoy cycling in Highland Park.

Adults are encouraged to take advantage of a free drug disposal collection box provided by the Save a Star Drug Awareness Foundation. Accepted items include prescription medications and controlled substances, all over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, and pet medications.

Note that needles/sharps, syringes with needles, and IV bags will not be accepted. For a full list of acceptable and unacceptable items, visit cityhpil.com/nationalnightout.

Participating organizations will offer activities and giveaways along with information about their services. Among these organizations, Moraine Township Food Pantry will collect nonperishable donations, with suggested items such as canned tuna or chicken, jelly or jam, peanut butter, syrup, and canned fruit.

The Rotary Club of Highland Park/Highwood will offer face painting and balloon art, and The Art Center of Highland Park will provide hands-on activities and giveaways for children.

The event will conclude with a short unity walk through downtown Highland Park, intended to honor the unique challenges of the past year and recommit to working together as one community to promote public well-being through partnership and compassion.

For more details on National Night Out, visit cityhpil.com/nationalnightout or call (847) 926-1000.

Highland Park National Night Out

Events will begin at 6 p.m. Aug. 3 on the front lawn of Highland Park's city hall, 1707 St. Johns Ave.

6 p.m.: Welcome, presentation of colors by HPPD Honor Guard, national anthem, remarks by Mayor Nancy Rotering and Chief Jogmen.

6:15 p.m.: Activities begin, informational tables open.

6:15-7:15 p.m.: Leo Sclamberg performs

7:15 p.m.: Drone Display

7:30-8:30 p.m.: Angels of Duality perform

8:30 p.m.: Unity Walk