The Elmwood Park Police Department and residents came together for food and camaraderie on Aug. 2. The community celebrated National Night Out at the Elmwood Park Aquatic Center.
Deputy Chief Andrew Hock said that the purpose of the event is for residents to come and talk with the police without officers wearing a uniform. Members of the community can speak with them about safety or any other concerns within the area in a relaxed environment.
“It gives us a chance for the residents to speak to the officers on an informal basis,” Hock said.
According to the National Night Out website, the event was established in 1984 with funding by the U.S. Department of Justice to fight against crime. The event promotes partnerships with the community and police officers.
At the Elmwood Park event, officials from the police department barbecued Italian sausage and bratwurst and offered chips and drinks for free. Hock said around 200 people attended the event, bringing along their families and children.
“We are looking to show that we are regular people, just like them,” Hock said. “We are looking to make the Elmwood Park community a safer and better place to live.”
Besides Hock, Police Chief Frank Fagiano and other officers were in attendance, grilling for members of the community. Elmwood Park Neighborhood Watch members answered questions from residents.
Hock said that the Elmwood Park Neighborhood Watch is a partnership between the police department, civic organizations, village officials and residents to prevent crime.
Elmwood Park residents MaryAnn and Guy Squeo said they attended the event because they said they support the Elmwood Park police.
“You have to work together to keep the neighborhood safe,” Guy Squeo said. “We want to support our police department. They’re a wonderful department.”
“We feel very safe here,” MaryAnn Squeo added.
Retired Elmwood Park Police Officer Gary Szalakiewicz brought his granddaughter Madison Suba to the event. He said he had worked at the police station for 34 years.
“It’s always good to have a good relationship with the police,” Szalakiewicz said.
Maryann Pisano is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
