Mascoutah Police Department’s National Night Out 2024 Brings Community Together
By Zachary Daum
On Tuesday, October 1, 2024, visitors to Mascoutah’s Scheve Park celebrated the annual National Night Out event. Sponsored by the Mascoutah Police Department and supported by local businesses and organizations, this year’s event attracted a large crowd of families and residents eager to engage with first responders, enjoy free activities and participate in the festivities.
The evening kicked off with a stirring rendition of the national anthem, performed by Felix Santana, a member of the Mascoutah High School JROTC. Police Chief Scott Waldrup commended Felix and the rest of the JROTC members, calling them “some of the most impressive kids in Mascoutah” and expressing pride in the youth of the community. He also noted the important role these young leaders play in events like National Night Out, which has been running for 41 years across the country.
Waldrup emphasized the event’s mission: “National Night Out is about building partnerships—between the community, businesses and all first responders. We couldn’t do what we do without the support of the community and tonight is about giving back.”
City officials, including City Manager Cody Hawkins and Mayor Pat McMahan, also welcomed the crowd. Hawkins thanked the police officers and city staff for organizing the event, while McMahan gave a special shout-out to the EMS and police departments for their hard work in making the night possible.
The event featured a variety of activities for all ages. Scott Credit Union sponsored the popular bounce houses, while the Mascoutah High School Art Club provided face painting. The Mascoutah Public Library organized crafts and activities for children, and attendees had the chance to experience a drone demonstration courtesy of the Mascoutah Police Department’s new drone unit, manned by licensed drone operators Jeremy Gotchhammer and Officer Brad Penet. The highlight of the demonstration was a large thermal drone, capable of flying in rain and darkness, which garnered much attention.
Additionally, the Mascoutah Fire Department served food, grilled to perfection by local firefighters, while the JROTC members volunteered to help serve. The fire department also showcased their trucks, while the Illinois State Police brought a motorcycle and their Vision Impairment goggles, simulating impaired driving. The Mascoutah Rural Fire Protection District added to the fun by displaying their vehicles.
The canine demonstration, which featured K9 units from across the Metro East, was one of the highlights of the night. Chief Waldrup spoke about the significance of K9 units, sharing the story of Odin, a police dog from Alton, Illinois, who was killed in the line of duty, reminding attendees of the risks officers and their K9 partners face every day.
The canine demonstration brought a massive crowd as children and adults alike watched as police showed how a dog takes down a suspect.
“We are fortunate to have a strong, supportive community,” Waldrup remarked. “This event allows us to come together, show appreciation and strengthen the ties between our officers and the residents we serve.”
National Night Out was made possible by numerous local sponsors and the event concluded with a series of prize giveaways. Some of the prizes included a Gocio Electric Bike, a Playstation 5, a Nintendo Switch and Apple AirPods. Residents also had the chance to win McDonald’s gift cards, pool passes for the 2025 season and family entertainment baskets. The prize drawings, held at 7 p.m., capped off a fun-filled night that left everyone smiling.
The Mascoutah Police Department extended its gratitude to the many donors who contributed to the event’s success, including Mascoutah Improvement Association, Scott Credit Union, McMahan Realty Group and more.
In a post-event comment, Chief Waldrup expressed his satisfaction: “I just wanted to thank the community and all those that helped out and participated in the event. It was just as a successful event as in the past and it’s a testament to the community who supports this event. I believe that this is probably the best community event that the police do all year, which strengthens our ties and partnership with the community. I’m very pleased.”
