SUN CITY – Last Tuesday, Aug. 7, Huntley joined over 15 thousand communities to raise awareness for the same cause.
“Neighborhood watch, or National Night Out, is designed to generate support and participation in anticrime programs,” said Ken Andersen, the acting president of Huntley’s Neighborhood Watch.
The ceremonies began at Eakin Field at 5:30 p.m. with Andersen being first to speak. He stood on the field along with a few of Huntley’s most influential people, such as Mayor Chuck Sass and Police Chief John Perkins. After Andersen spoke, Sun City’s Marine Cops Color Guard presented flags while the National Anthem and the softball all-star game followed.
But the game was not the only thing people could see during National Night Out. The Fire Department had fire equipment in the parking lot for people to view. The Model Railroad Club also had trains in operation near the field.
Even with the events, many organizations stepped up and donated things for the cause. Free hot dogs, water, and Pringles potato chips were provided by Citizen’s Bank, which has been sponsoring food for the event for eight years. In addition to the support of Citizen’s Bank, the Knights of Columbus provided free ice cream treats.
The treats did not go to waste. Andersen especially was pleased with the amount of people who attended last Tuesday. In the past, National Night Out has generated a turnout of about 300 people, but this year the number was around 550.
“It was our largest turnout ever,” he said. “We started to publicize National Night Out back on July 4, when we had our golf cart parade.”
As for next year and beyond, Andersen hopes to work with the police department further.
“We’re going to continue to grow the neighborhood watch program,” Andersen said. “We look to continue it for the ninth consecutive year and offer additional activities in part with the all-star game.”
