JACKSON – The township once again observed National Night Out, an annual campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.
The free event coordinated by the Jackson Police Department and Jackson PBA #168 featured raffles, giveaways, food, music, games, and family-friendly activities. This year’s event was held at Johnson Park, where it has been based more recently having shifted from a ShopRite parking lot.
On display were vehicles and equipment from the police department’s SWAT, K9, traffic, motorcycle, bike and drone units.
Capt. Sean Greenberger was the point person for this year’s event which also provided a showcase for EMS units and fire companies within the township. Community organizations and houses of worship also came out to the park to promote themselves.
Police Chief Matthew D. Kunz said, “I’m pleased to report that the Jackson Police Department was successful in planning and hosting another splendid community event. Capt. Sean Greenberger, like Captains Nelson and Convery before him, did very well coordinating with local fire, EMS, OEM, CERT, Kiwanis, Chaverim and so many others to ensure a safe night of family fun.”
“While too many to list here, we are grateful for all of the organizations that attended and supported Jackson Police Department in hosting this event. By all accounts National Night Out was well attended, and our residents were able to enjoy the opportunity to come together with neighbors and police officers under positive circumstances, thus building a greater sense of community,” the chief added.
Township Public Safety Director Joseph Candido said, “this marks our third-year hosting National Night Out at Johnson Park, and I’m happy to say it was another fantastic turnout. The event continues to grow each year, which is great to see. We were fortunate to have a strong presence from the community, including Jackson First Aid, Hatzolah First Aid, Chaverim, all of the Jackson Fire Companies, and several other local civic organizations.”
“From the Police Department side, we showcased some of our newly received vehicles, including quads that we had picked up just two hours before the event. Our Bicycle Unit, SRT Team, Drone Unit, Motorcycle Unit, Quad Unit, and Police Explorers were also on hand and did a great job representing the department,” he added.
Candido extended “a big thank you to the Kiwanis Club for handling the cooking once again – your continued support is always appreciated. I also want to extend my gratitude to all of our sponsors who generously contributed to the success of the event.”
“Special thanks to Capt. Greenberger for coordinating this year’s event – his first time running it – and doing an outstanding job. I also want to acknowledge Jackson Township Public Works for their help with set-up and clean-up, which made a big difference and finally, thank you to Jackson PBA 168, our main sponsor, whose support covers the cost of the rides and other features that make this such a special night for the community. I’m already looking forward to next year’s event,” Candido added.
Bartley Healthcare donated all the hot dogs; Elite Vehicle Solutions donated all the water and Andy Weinstein’s State Farm office donated the ice cream.
Mayor Michael Reina was enjoying the evening and noted, “National Night out was once again a huge success. The police along with Jackson Township’s First Responders interacted with our residents, many who attended with their families. There was much to see and learn about.”
The mayor added that first responders keep residents safe and help in many ways and that this event provided, “another reason to thank all of them for all that they do for so many every day.”
This marked the last National Night Out for School Resource Officer Colin Menafra, who is scheduled to retire later this year.
Members of the Jackson Police Explorer Post 168 were on hand as part of the event assisting where necessary. If you or your child are interested in becoming a police explorer you can reach out to Police Officer Michael DeBlasi at mdeblasi@jacksontwpnj.net.
