The first Tuesday of every August, National Night Out brings neighbors, community members and law enforcement together for a night of unity focusing on building trust, strengthening community bonds and celebrating safety in neighborhoods. For the first time, this city event included principals bearing gifts!
This year, Methuen had 18 neighborhoods participate in their own block parties – everything from cookouts to pizza and ice cream parties. The Police Department’s Freeze Patrol truck visited as many gatherings as they could, handing out ice cream as their comfort dog Ollie and his handler, Officer Kayleigh Forgetta, joined them. Several teams of police and fire personnel visited each block party, meeting those gathered – especially the children, who received fire hats, police badges and other goodies.
Visting neighborhoods for the first time during NNO were Methuen school administrators who passed out glow sticks, popsicles and other treats – along with lots of smiles – while meeting the children who will join them in the new school year.
Over at the Methuen Housing Authority, several residents enjoyed a pizza party while resident Regina Diaz wasn’t shy about dancing alone to the DJ’s music.
Firefighter John Bazdanes hands off a fire hat to 18-month-old Amelia who was with her dad and family friend Fanta Kallon, 4.
Hampshire Circle neighbors gathered together for fun and friendship. Wearing his new firefighter hat is Elijah Meaney, 9, shown with sister Adaline, 7, and Peyton Meaney-Ramirez, 5. The children enjoyed playing games while the adults chatted.
Officers Robert Fitzgerald and Manny Suarez met up with hoopster Wilber Ramos, 16, at Methuen Arlington Neighborhood’s block party. Wilber works at MAN Inc., and both officers volunteer with the basketball program there.
National Night Out saw an impressive turnout on Young Farm Road!
