By Lance Koppa, the Public Information Officer for the Highland Park Department of Public Safety
This year marks the 29th annual National Night Out event with communities in Texas participating on Tuesday October 2, 2012. National Night Out events are designed to: (1) Heighten crime prevention awareness; (2) Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs; (3) Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and (4) Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighbor hoods are organized and fighting back.
The Highland Park Department of Public Safety (HPDPS) is a unique blending of fire, police, and emergency medical services. Highland Park Public Safety Officers are cross-trained in these three disciplines and engage in each of them daily. HPDPS utilizes the National Night Out to not only strengthen neighborhood spirit and support for Crime Watch, but also provide an opportunity for the community to visit with officers that perform the public safety function. Fire and EMS equipment will also be on hand for display. The many services provided by the staff from the Town of Highland Park will join HPDPS tomorrow evening. This is a perfect opportunity for the community to meet those that serve the town in different capacities, from Library personnel to the Parks Department.
Highland Park National Night Out will run from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Highland Park Village, located at the corner of Preston Road and Mockingbird Lane. This is the third year that Highland Park Village has hosted National Night Out. The success of Highland Park National Night Out would not be possible without their support. Light snacks will be provided by Patrizio restaurant, Mi Cocina and Celebrity Café, all located in the Highland Park Village. Highland Park Crime Watch volunteers will be available to answer any questions regarding the neighborhood Crime Watch program, Crime Watch website, and methods to build a safer community