National Night Out event planned in Springdale

Springdale police Chief George Polnar hopes the local event, held in conjunction with the national campaign, will encourage residents to not be afraid of police officers and other emergency officials — an issue he said he’s battled his entire career.

“We’re members of the community. We’re involved in things. We raise our families just like they do,” Polnar said. “Sometimes, we have the unpleasant task of having to enforce the laws or pass on bad news.”

Springdale’s event will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 6 at the borough building at 325 School St.

Residents will have a chance to interact outside the borough building with Springdale police officers, firefighters and members from the Lower Valley Ambulance Service.

Free hot dogs and popcorn will be provided while supplies last.

There will be a bike raffle for children, who also will be able to get their fingerprints recorded. Such information can help authorities locate missing children.

Inside the building, former Allegheny County Coroner Dr. Cyril Wecht is scheduled to speak along with other local officials.

“I think it’s awesome he’s taking the time to come,” Polnar said. “He’s very sought after, and we’re a very small community.”

Free tickets are available for the inside portion of the event. They can be picked up at the borough building during normal business hours. Admission will be given first to Springdale residents who provide proof of residency with a driver’s license or identification card or a utility bill. Nonresidents will be admitted if space is left. Tickets don’t guarantee a seat.

“We’re really excited,” Melissa Spirk-Gilbert of the borough’s recreation committee said. “We want to get the community together as many times as possible throughout the year.”