Annually, the Vernon Hills Police Department hosts an event known as the Jim Heier Veterans Fishing Derby. The occasion, which is held at Big Bear and Little Bear Lakes, is named after the late Vernon Hills Trustee Jim Heier. The 2025 Derby was held on Sunday, June 22. The weather could not have been nicer.
Approximately thirty veterans from the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago were brought in for several relaxing hours of fun and a barbecue lunch. Experienced or not, it doesn't matter as there are always plenty of knowledgeable VHPD personnel and other volunteers on hand to make sure that everyone has fun. Each participant receives a goody bag at the beginning of the event. The festivities conclude with an awards ceremony and raffle.
The Jim Heier Fishing Derby is another way that the Vernon Hills Police Department thanks Veterans for their service to our country. Anyone who would like to assist in any way at the next Derby is asked to contact Andi Hoppe at andih@vhills.org.
Enjoy these pictures from the 2025 Jim Heier Fishing Derby: