National Night Out

Pictured with the National Night Out Knight are Putnam County NNO committee members front, from left, Linda Merkel, Darcy Hendershot, Patti Harmless and Shelley Chadd; second row, from left, Hannah Ames, Jeff Mace, David English, Eileen Johnson, Jessica Morris and Elizabeth Butts; and third row, from left, John Sims, Tom Sutherlin, Renee Marsteller, Jim Maxwell, P.T. Wilson and Megan Criss.

4th annual event set for Aug. 3

Plans are being finalized for the fourth annual National Night Out, scheduled for Aug. 3 from 6-9 p.m. at Robe-Ann Park in Greencastle (rain date is Aug. 5).

Volunteers will be located around the park directing families to the registration tables to pickup bracelets and receive information about free refreshments and participation in activities and raffles. The bracelets will also serve as free passes for swimming at the Greencastle Aquatics Center from 7-9 p.m.

Some new additions this year include a bounce house and obstacle course (sponsored by Community Partners), Pin the Badge on the Officer (sponsored by the Greencastle City Police Department), Bicycle Safety Program (sponsored by DePauw University Public Safety and Kiwanis), and a K-9 demonstration (sponsored by the Putnamville Correctional Facility).

James "Figgy" Hardwick of Fig's Follies will serve as emcee.

"Thanks to the success of our first annual Family Movie Night, the evening will include providing each elementary and middle school student accompanied by a parent a bag of basic school supplies," said Linda Merkel, NNO coordinator.

The National Night Out Knight will join NNO volunteers as they walk in the annual Putnam County 4-H Fair Parade on July 23.

"This event would not be possible without agencies, organizations, and the wonderful volunteers who continue to support our efforts to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness. We stand together to promote awareness, safety and community unity," said Merkel.