The Crown Point Police Department (CPPD) hosted a memorable National Night Out event at the Crown Point Sportsplex. The event featured a variety of activities and entertainment.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer and more caring places to live. It enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement, bringing back a true sense of community, and providing an opportunity for police and neighbors to come together under positive circumstances.
“Having the support of the community that you serve is critically important for that police department to be successful. Part of earning this support is engaging the community in different ways, allowing them to see their police officers outside of a uniform or squad car,” said Mayor Pete Land, who is also the former Chief of Police. “Community policing programs are something I've always believed in.”
The evening began with a visit from the Lake County Sheriff's Department helicopter. Attendees gathered in the stands at the Jerry Ross Park baseball field to watch a friendly competition between CPPD police officers and Crown Point Fire Department (CPFD) in a softball game, with Land announcing the game.
“This is a great opportunity that we look forward to all year in bringing not only our community together with our first responders, but also bringing our first responders together for an evening of good fellowship outside of our day-to-day working relationships,” said CPPD Police Chief Ryan Patrick.
The first 300 attendees enjoyed free treats from Kona Ice of the Dunes, while Crown Point Emergency Management Agency (EMA) volunteers grilled and served free hot dogs provided by Costco.
Multiple booths from community organizations, including ADT, the City of Crown Point, Crown Point Community School Corporation, Crown Point Library, and more offered valuable information and engagement opportunities.
“The men and women of our police and fire departments are some of the most dedicated people I've ever worked with," Land said. "Their desire to serve our community in all of the ways they do makes our city stronger.”
National Night Out has a major history and significance for Crown Point, and is always an important event for the local community.
“This fun night of a friendly softball game between the CPPD and the CPFD began several years ago, but it was lost for many years. There was a traveling trophy that was played for between the departments that was misplaced over the years, and we resurrected a new trophy that will be presented this evening with the dates from the last three years we began the National Night Out,” said Patrick. “Both agencies stand strong by supporting each other, and we look at ourselves as family no matter if you are fire, police, or EMA. Our first responder family comes together and cares for one another in both good times and bad. I want everyone to have a fun night no matter who wins. At the end of the day, it's not about who wins or loses — it's about our community getting together.”
The National Night Out event was a community-building success, bringing together residents for an evening of fun while promoting safety and positive police-community relationships.
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