National Night Out Brings Suffolk Communities Together

Communities across Suffolk County celebrated National Night Out on Tuesday, bringing together sheriff’s deputies, police officers, firefighters, emergency responders, elected officials and residents for an annual evening dedicated to strengthening neighborhood relationships and promoting public safety.

The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office hosted its annual National Night Out celebration at Fireman’s Memorial Park in Ridge, drawing nearly 2,500 attendees for family activities, public safety demonstrations and community exhibits.

Suffolk County Sheriff Errol Toulon said National Night Out provides an opportunity for law enforcement to connect with residents outside of emergency situations.

“Every first Tuesday of August of every year all of law enforcement gets together to really show our communities what we’re about and it’s a great way for us to engage. We had almost 2,500 people attend our National Night Out along with a lot of vendors. We were very fortunate to have beautiful weather and I look forward to doing it again next year.”

Assemblyman Joe DeStefano said the events help reinforce the sense of community that defines Suffolk County.

“National Night Out is a special tradition that reminds us how important it is for families to know the men and women who serve and protect their communities,” DeStefano said at the Fireman’s Park gathering. “When neighbors, first responders and local organizations come together like this, it strengthens the bonds that make our communities safer and stronger.”

Katie Kearon of Manorville attended with her daughter and said the event is something her family enjoys each summer.

“This is a great night for families and the community,” Kearon said. “The kids have a wonderful time, and it’s nice to see everyone come together in such a positive way.”

Kaelyn Delello of Manorville said she appreciates the welcoming atmosphere the event creates.

“It has a really nice community feel,” Delello said. “You see neighbors, meet new people and get to know the officers and first responders who are here for us every day.”

In addition to the Sheriff’s event in Ridge, the Suffolk County Police Department hosted National Night Out celebrations at William Floyd High School in Mastic Beach through the Seventh Precinct, at Manor Field Park in Huntington Station through the Second Precinct, and at Roberto Clemente Park in Brentwood through the Third Precinct. Numerous civic associations, neighborhood groups and community organizations also organized local gatherings across Suffolk County in support of the annual event.

Founded in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch, National Night Out is held annually to encourage partnerships between residents, law enforcement and other public safety agencies while promoting crime prevention and stronger neighborhoods.