Police departments and first responders across the southwest suburbs brought their departments into neighborhoods this month during National Night Out, the nationwide initiative held the first Tuesday of August to strengthen police-community relationships.
The events drew families, local businesses, and volunteers eager to connect with officers in a relaxed setting.
In Stickney and Forest View, the two villages partnered for their inaugural National Night Out on Aug. 4 at 41st and Ridgeland Avenue in Stickney from 5 to 8 p.m. The event featured police vehicles, fire apparatus, music, food, family activities, and giveaways.
Forest View Police Chief Jim Ritz said the turnout exceeded expectations for a first-time event.
“We had a great crowd, and I’m looking forward to putting together the second annual one next year,” Ritz said. “I’ve always had a great relationship and respect for working with the Stickney Police Department, and we look forward to teaming up with them in the future with Special Olympics and National Night Out.”
The Stickney Police Department thanked attendees and volunteers in a social media post, saying the event “helps build stronger relationships and a safer community.”
In Indian Head Park, Officer Rob Verber said the fourth annual National Night Out at Blackhawk Park drew a well-attended crowd on a perfect evening. The highlight, he said, was the return of the Air Methods LifeStar helicopter, which remained on the ground for more than an hour, allowing children and families to tour the aircraft and speak with flight crew members.
“The helicopters have always been a big hit with attendees and were again this year,” Verber said.
New attractions included face painting and a local astronomer with high-powered telescopes that let attendees view the daytime and night sky. The evening also featured a magician, a live reptile show, inflatables, a DJ, free ice cream, and food from local restaurants and a Mexican food truck. The event concluded with an outdoor screening of “WALL-E” after dusk.
“What makes the evening special is having so many different people and organizations come together in one place and allowing residents to interact with police officers, first responders, community partners, and their neighbors in a relaxed setting,” Verber said.
In Summit, Police Chief Mel Ortiz said the annual event at Summit Park brought together the police and fire departments, the Summit Park District, CN Railroad Police, Girl Scouts, the Argo Summit Lions Club, and local businesses including AT&T and Chester’s Pizza. The event also featured K9 officers Bryan and Lola, along with Jasper the therapy dog.
“It was an absolute pleasure to connect with our community in a relaxed environment,” Ortiz said.
All three communities said they plan to hold events again next year.
Burbank, Countryside, Western Springs, La Grange, La Grange Park, and Brookfield also held National Night Out events.
