McGruff the Crime Dog has been making personal appearances around town to introduce the first-ever Running Scared 5k that is slated for Sat., Oct. 27. With an invitation to “Run with McGruff” in costume or athletic attire, the Halloween-themed event sponsored by Naperville CrimeStoppers will step off at 8AM, next to St. Elizabeth Seton Church, located at 2220 Lisson Road.
The friendly bloodhound, a true character eager to “take a bite out of crime,” recently sniffed his way to a number of his favorite dog-friendly patios, including Meson Sabika and Quigley’s Irish Pub, where water bowls are always filled with fresh water.
Last week, McGruff accompanied Mary Browning, Community Education Specialist for the Naperville Police Department, to the Naperville Woman’s Club. Browning had been invited to lead the “Personal Safety: Becoming a Tough Target” class, with many tips about the importance of staying safe. NCTV17 captured a few moments of Browning’s presentation on video.
McGruff and the Naperville Woman’s Club have had a long relationship in Naperville. In fact, McGruff’s trench coat and other attire were funded by the Naperville Woman’s Club, a bit of local trivia.
At the August dog days version of the West Suburban Irish Quiz Night at Quigley’s, McGruff made another appearance, noting it was Naperville National Night Out, a time to get to know your neighbors during the unique crime/drug prevention event. In the heat of the night, McGruff also handed out postcards with details about the Running Scared 5K.
Since 1980, every image of McGruff the Crime Dog has been a reminder that the police can’t fight crime alone. Crime prevention is everybody’s business and everyone must pay attention to help prevent and report crime. In addition, everyone can follow McGruff’s lead to talk to youth about drug prevention, bullying, safety and the value of being a good student and staying in school.
If you see something, say something. In Naperville, the CrimeStoppers phone number is (630) 420-6006.
Now at age 114 in dog years, well-known McGruff appeals to all ages, including WSI Quiz Night announcer Mike Reilly who turns 65 years old on Aug. 8.
FYI: McGruff the Crime Dog will be on hand to cheer on racers during the Running Scared 5K. Early registration is $30 for adults and $20 for kids 12 and under until Oct. 1. Registration afterward is $35 for adults and $25 for kids. Register early to receive an official race shirt. Race begins and ends on 87th St. next to St. Elizabeth Seton Church in Naperville.
For more information, visit crimestoppersrunningscared.com.
