Page 53 - September 2019 FOP Newsletter

Light of National Night Out still bright after three decades
■ BY DAN CAMPANA AND AMBER RAMUNDO
A simple idea sparked National Night Out in 1984: Bring commu- nities together.
Thirty-five years later, that concept has grown into a one-night party that celebrates neighborhood and community togetherness. Across Chicago, National Night Out exemplified the relationship the city’s police officers have with its citizens. The fun, dancing, food and smiles told the story as streets, parks and fields came to life the night of Aug. 6.
20th District
Nearly all the Chicago Po- lice Department’s districts embraced this yearly tra- dition with many exciting celebrations and activities. Each district put together a unique experience so their residents could enjoy a fam- ily-friendly night out while engaging with the officers who protect and serve their neighborhoods.
In the 11th District, civil- ians gathered in Kells Park, where Commander Darrell
15th District
14th District
11th District
Spencer greeted and took photos with many friendly faces. Fami- lies enjoyed live entertainment, games and a cookout prepared by officers in uniform.
One of the largest National Night Out gatherings took place in Lot A of the United Center, where 12th District Sergeant Andrew Doerge helped organize a car show for active and retired CPD offi- cers, as well as civilians, to share their passion for vintage cars.
“National Night Out is designed to enhance the relationship be- tween law enforcement and the community,” Doerge said. “That’s what the mission was, and that’s what the car show did.”
Big names including the Chicago Bulls, Chicago White Sox, Chi- cago Blackhawks and Vans clothing company all set up shop at the 12th District National Night Out to engage with the community and give away prizes. A local McDonald’s even set up a kitchen in the middle of the gathering to distribute McNuggets and French fries.
While nearly 1,000 people joined the 12th District officers at the United Center, the 15th District invited residents on the city’s West Side to Moore Park for the Chicago West Side Sports Police and Youth championship baseball game. Officers cooked hot dogs, posed for pictures and showed off their dance moves.
The 20th District’s festivities at Winnemac Park included a visit by the Chicago Fire Department, and kids lined up to try on SWAT gear. Others visited with the mounted unit, hopped around the bounce house or hung out with a few friendly birds — chickens and a parrot — who were part of the fun.
But when it comes down to it, the officers got to have as much fun as anyone else. At Holstein Park in the 14th District, CPD’s finest became sitting ducks for anyone with an arm worthy of the
12th District
dunk tank. Spoiler alert: many cops ended up wet, and happy to be soaked. Others showed off their physical prowess by taking on the National Guard fitness challenge.
CHICAGO LODGE 7 ■ SEPTEMBER 2019 53