Lemont Police Invite Families to 'Kops-n-Kidz Day'

Lemont's finest are gearing up for one of their favorite events of the year, Kops-n-Kidz Day.

The fifth annual event will kick off at 9:45 a.m Saturday with a bike parade from Lions Park, 60 W. Roberta St., to Centennial Park, 16028 W. 127th St. Festivities will be held at Centennial from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kops-n-Kidz Day, which is free to the public, offers a variety of activities that give children an opportunity to interact with Lemont police officers.

"It's a great day for kids," Lemont Police Chief Kevin Shaughnessy said during a village board meeting last month. ""The main purpose is to have fun."

All children ages 16 and under will receive a coupon for a free lunch and treat, as well as entry into a kids raffle. Police will also be give away free T-shirts and bike helmets while supplies last.

Activities this year include performances by the Jesse White Tumblers, a scavenger hunt, party photo booth, crime scene demonstration, pony rides, petting zoo, inflatables, live DJ and "story time" with Miss Mary.

The event will also feature several emergency vehicles—including a helicopter, motorcycles, police cars and fire trucks.

If more than 500 children show up, Shaughnessy said he'll join the fun and have his face and nails painted.

"The event shows the community that police officers are real people," he said. "It's important to us that kids know us and trust us."

For more information, contact Paulette Garcia at 630-257-2229.