Residents in New Windsor and the Town of Newburgh joined communities nationwide Aug. 5 to celebrate National Night Out, an annual event aimed at strengthening relationships between police officers and the neighborhoods they serve.

New Windsor
hosted its fourth annual National Night Out from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Kristi Babcock Memorial Park. Music filled the air as families explored tents, food stands and inflatable bounce houses.

Emergency vehicles from New Windsor EMS and the New Windsor and Vails Gate fire departments were on display, with company members greeting visitors and giving children a chance to explore the equipment. Nearby, agencies and community partners such as the New York State Police, Newburgh Free Library, Orange County District Attorney’s Office and New Windsor Recreation Department offered information, giveaways and activities.

Children and parents took part in a scavenger hunt to collect signatures from community leaders, including Police Chief Daniel Valeri. Valeri said he enjoys seeing the event grow each year and was eager for the evening’s tug-of-war match between police and firefighters.

“This is what it’s all about — meeting everybody and realizing we’re more than just a uniform,” Valeri said. “We’re moms, dads, brothers, sisters, uncles and aunts, all striving for a common goal.”

The tug-of-war drew a crowd to the center of the park. As the fire department edged toward victory, Valeri and Orange County Sheriff Paul Arteta jumped in, helping the police pull off their first win.

Other activities included a K-9 demonstration and a kickball game with officers.

“It’s so nice to see everyone come together,” said Recreation Director Jessica Dickinson. “You don’t always get that chance when everyone’s busy responding to calls. Tonight, we do.”

Local and state officials attending included Supervisor Stephen Bedetti, council members Charles Broe, Eve Lincoln, Sylvia Santiago and Steve Moreau, Town Clerk Patricia Clarino, Receiver of Taxes Susan Scheible, U.S. Rep. Pat Ryan, Assemblymember Chris Eachus, Orange County Legislator Joseph Minuta and staff from the office of state Sen. James Skoufis, who sponsored the event.

Town of Newburgh:
For the second consecutive year, the Town of Newburgh held its National Night Out at Cronomer Park due to ongoing construction at Chadwick Lake Park. The event ran from 6 to 9 p.m.

Town police officers grilled and served food, while children toured fire trucks and emergency vehicles, tossed frisbees and played games. Booths featured the town recreation and animal control departments, New York State Police, FBI, Walmart, Starbucks and the Newburgh Free Library. Families also enjoyed refreshments from Main Squeeze and Ice Mother, and free face painting.

“This is a really special night,” said Officer Adam Geyer. “It’s a chance for our police department, community partners and first responders to spend time together, share smiles, catch up with friends and build new partnerships.”

Local officials in attendance included Orange County Legislator Genesis Ramos, Town Supervisor Gil Piaquadio, council members Paul Ruggiero, Anthony LoBiondo and Scott Manley, a former town police officer.

Manley said the event helps residents see first responders as neighbors. “You’ve got kids playing wiffle ball with the cops, frisbee with the firemen — we’re all just community, here as family to help each other,” he said.

As the sun set, residents lingered, enjoying the games, demonstrations and conversations that marked another year of National Night Out.