National Night Out in Garfield Ridge was co-hosted by the Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch and the Fire It Up Now Fire Truck. For many residents, National Night Out has become a longstanding tradition to show community support.
National Night Out started with a prayer by Pastor JJ of Hope Church Midway in the parking lot of Weber’s Bakery. He offered a blessing for our police and acknowledged the tremendous sacrifices they make every day. Residents joined in the prayer, along with those participating in the car parade and the spectators watching the event.
After the prayer, the Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch Board boarded the Fire It Up Now to spread smiles and show their support for law enforcement in Garfield Ridge.
I had the privilege of riding on a fire truck as both a Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch Board member and a columnist. The highlight of the evening was seeing the smiles on the faces of children as we passed by their homes, along with enthusiastic responses from parents and families who eagerly came out to wave to us.
Residents of all ages stood in their driveways, waving American flags, and some even sat in the beds of their trucks to honor our police officers. Families responded to our message about National Night Out and came out in droves, holding signs supporting the police and the Garfield Ridge Neighborhood Watch, wearing their Garfield Ridge Strong T-shirts, and gathering from whole blocks to show how much they care.
It was a night to bring the community together, have fun, enjoy the big red fire truck rocking out to patriotic music, and see neighbors proudly waving American and Blue Line flags.
In West Lawn, the National Night Out was organized by Barbara “Barb” Ziegler in collaboration with the 8th District Police.
Now in its 22nd year, this event attracted an average of over 800 attendees this year, and organizers anticipate an even larger turnout next year.
The success of National Night Out is supported by more than 24 donors from local businesses and politicians, along with both veteran and new volunteers.
Ziegler said, “It’s a great community event, I love it. Lovely to have good weather.”
Sgt. Opaka from the 8th District expressed his happiness that everyone came out to support each other, emphasizing that it was an overall great event for West Lawn residents.
The National Night Out kicked off at 4 p.m and featured pony rides for kids, a train, and Happy Meals donated by McDonald’s. The event featured numerous resource tables and giveaways from various organizations, including the Salvation Army, Oak Street Health, St. Nicholas Tolentine School, Excel Academy, American Legion, Target, Starbucks, and more. Pasian’s Pizzeria on Pulaski and Huck Finns had a joint tent, where they provided free pizzas and food to residents of West Lawn.
Alderman Silvana Tabares (23rd) attended the West Lawn Park event to show her support. She shared some remarks by saying, “National Night Out is a time for the Southwest Side to come together and meet the First Responders and recognize the important role they play in keeping the community safe. As both an alderman and community member, I want to show those who put their life on the line that there is a person who stands alongside them as they serve the 23rd Ward.”
Participating in events like National Night brings a deep sense of pride to our beloved neighborhoods. It’s heartening to see how much we value and appreciate our Chicago Police. These gatherings truly help strengthen the connection between residents and officers, highlighting the unwavering support and unity we have in West Lawn and Garfield Ridge. It’s a beautiful reminder of the strong community spirit we share!
