Oak Lawn First Responders To Be Honored At Blue Ribbon Walk

OAK LAWN, IL — Show your love for Oak Lawn and Hometown’s police officers and firefighters by joining the Blue Ribbon Walk in Lake Shore Park, 9610 E. Shore Drive, Oak Lawn. Residents will start gathering in the park at 11 a.m.; the walk steps off at noon, Saturday, June 5. If you want to come earlier, grab a bagel starting at 9 a.m.

Last year, the walk was canceled due to the pandemic. Oak Lawn Raiders Social Athletic Club members are promising to make up for it in 2021. Make some signs, decorate your buggy or bike, and put on your walking shoes. Erin Jennings will start the march off by singing the National Anthem. The walk will be contained to Lake Shore Park area.

Afterward, stick around for lunch and grab a burger or a hot dog, courtesy of Whitingham Meats in Alsip, and Pat and Jack’s Old Fashioned Butcher Shop in Chicago Ridge. Chips and water will also be available. Lunch is on the organizers. The grills will be behind PD’s Place, adjacent to the park.

Rev. T, of Rev. T and the Soul Shakers, will entertain by singing some soulful R&B tunes after the walk. Country Financial, one of the event sponsors, will also be presenting a check for $1,500 to the Oak Lawn Police Department Club.

The Blue Ribbon Walk is the brainchild of Mike Cerf, who has organized the event for the past several years. The event has since blossomed into a community effort with many adults, children and local businesses getting involved.

"It supports all first responders," Cerf said. "We want to acknowledge the police and fire departments. The real reason I took the initiative was because of all the negative ublicity police were getting across the country. Let's make sure they get home."

Restroom facilities are available at PD’s Place, 5407 W. 95th St. There will also be a portable restroom in the park.

Proud sponsors of the Blue Ribbon Walk are Country Financial, Oak Lawn Raiders Social Athletic Club, Stars and Stripes Screen Printing, PD’s Place, Jesse’s Tavern, BJ McMahon’s, S&T Provisions and Great American Bagel.