Community Celebrates at ‘Faith and Blue’ Autumn Fest

The annual “Faith and Blue” Autumn Fest took place on October 7, 2023, at the IHM School, drawing families and schoolmates together for an afternoon filled with engaging activities. Organized by the Fifth Police District Advisory Council (PDAC), the event successfully fostered community spirit and strengthened ties between local law enforcement and residents.

On a beautiful autumn day, the school parking lot buzzed with excitement as children and parents participated in a variety of fun and challenging activities. Community Relations Officer Damian Caggiano led the initiative, aiming to build positive relationships between the community and police officers through enjoyable outreach programs. The event featured a range of activities, from pony rides to face painting, catering primarily to younger participants.

The connection between the school and local service members was evident, with police officers and firefighters present to engage with the community. The atmosphere was lively, further enhanced by DJ Barry “the Music Mann” Redemann, who provided a soundtrack of upbeat music throughout the day.

Activities at the fair were designed to entertain and engage children. A bounce house attracted many youngsters, while others enjoyed pumpkin decorating and games like corn hole. For a small fee, children could enjoy guided pony rides, adding to the festive atmosphere. The local fire department also participated, allowing children to explore the fire engine and even spray water from a real fire hose.

As kids played and explored, the day was filled with laughter and joy. Many children eagerly positioned themselves to be drenched in the water spray, while others clamored for photo opportunities on police motorcycles. James Dougherty, known for his grill skills, served hot dogs, contributing to the community vibe of the event.

Among the attendees was Rev. Jack Kennedy, a chaplain at the Fifth District, who set up a booth offering refreshments and books for children. His initiative, known as Small Things, provided an additional layer of engagement for families attending the festival.

The PDAC’s efforts in organizing such a successful event were met with appreciation from community members. The smiles on children’s faces reflected the positive impact of the event, reinforcing the importance of community and law enforcement collaboration.

Officer Caggiano expressed his pride in the festival’s growth, stating, “Faith and Blue is a wonderful annual event that is growing each and every year. It is a great way to tie our Spiritual Leaders in with our Officers and the Police Department to benefit the community. It’s an honor to be part of such a great event.”

The “Faith and Blue” Autumn Fest not only served as a day of fun but also strengthened community bonds, leaving a lasting impression on both the young attendees and their families. The success of the event highlights the importance of such initiatives in promoting a positive perception of law enforcement and encouraging community engagement.