After a week of waiting due to rain, New Windsor families and residents celebrated another annual National Night Out celebration on Tuesday, August 13 under clear skies. Families and residents enjoyed free food, watched K-9 officer demonstrations, checked out police gear and equipment and competed in outdoor games, all while being in a safe and family friendly environment.

National Night Out events like the one in New Windsor are held annually across the country by various police departments. Other law enforcement agency partners and community organizations make appearances with information or host activities in support of the event’s festivities. The National Night Out event also celebrates 40 years since it was first held in August of 1984.

“The park is full of activity. There’s kids smiling, bouncing around everywhere. Couldn’t ask for more,” said Recreation Director Jessica Dickinson. “As far as events like this, it’s really nice to bring those folks in the community together. I think this is just one example of a great, great positive interaction.”

At the local level, the New Windsor Fire Department, the Vails Gate Fire Department and the New Windsor EMS had their vehicles and gear on display for children and families to inspect or interact with while stopping by their setups. Law enforcement partners included the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New York State Police and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and District Attorney’s Office.

With the various community partners coming together to celebrate that night, Police Chief Daniel Valeri said the word partnership is what the meaning of this event was all about for the community. He was also very grateful for the perfect weather that afternoon. “This is what it’s all about, having the first responders and community come together and get to know each other and have a good time and just bond,” said Valeri.

As the music played, members of the police department and firefighters competed in a friendly game of tug-of-war where the victory went to the firefighters. Under the park pavilion, families were served hot dogs, cold drinks and ice cream during the evening. Kids also had the opportunity to get their fingerprints taken by law enforcement members.

During a brief pause in music, Town Supervisor Stephen Bedetti spoke and thanked the residents for coming out that afternoon to celebrate the day and to spend time with the town’s officers. Senator James Skoufis, who again sponsored the event for New Windsor, equally shared words of gratitude to the community for hosting once again, before making his rounds to other National Night Out events.

“It’s always a great event. It’s a really opportune, wonderful time for the community to get first hand interaction, positive engagement with the local law enforcement in all these towns and villages and it brings other community groups out as well,” Skoufis said. “I’m happy to support every National Night Out event in Orange County, this year and last year, with $10,000 each through my office. I’m going to continue that work to make sure these events can continue in earnest and continue leaving a positive impression on each community.”