On Tuesday, August 20, Councilman Neil Manzella (R-Selden) and Town Clerk Kevin LaValle (R-Selden), in collaboration with the Suffolk County Police Department’s Sixth Precinct and the Middle Country Library, hosted the rescheduled, but much-anticipated, annual National Night Out at the Town of Brookhaven’s Centereach Pool Complex. This free event, which was held from 5:30p.m. to 8:30p.m., aimed to promote police-community relationships and foster neighborhood camaraderie.
The National Night Out is a nationwide initiative that seeks to enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while fostering a sense of community. This year’s event at the Centereach Pool Complex, located at 286 Hawkins Road in Centereach, promised to be an evening filled with fun activities and opportunities for community engagement and it truly delivered.
Last year, the National Night Out attracted a large crowd who came to enjoy the various activities and interact with many different community vendors. More and more people, having seen or heard about the previous year’s successful event, came out to join in on the fun. This year, the attendance was significantly higher.
Attendees had the opportunity to swim in the Centereach Pool, participate in games, win prizes, and enjoy the offerings of numerous community vendors. The event provides a unique platform for residents to interact with local law enforcement in a positive and relaxed environment.
Councilman Neil Manzella emphasized the importance of the National Night Out in “building stronger, safer communities. ”
Town Clerk Kevin LaValle echoed these sentiments, highlighting the role of the event in that it “promotes a sense of unity.”
The Suffolk County Police Department’s 6th Precinct plays a vital role in the event, providing demonstrations and engaging with the community. Officers were on hand to discuss safety tips, answer questions, and showcase some of the department’s equipment and vehicles. This interaction helps build trust and mutual respect between the police force and the community they serve.
The Middle Country Library, a key partner in the event, was present, offering resources and activities that highlight the importance of literacy and community involvement. The library’s participation underscores the event’s emphasis on education and engagement.
Community groups such as the Centereach and Selden Civic Associations, the Middle Country Chamber of Commerce, Hobbs Farm, Connect Church, Middle Country Soccer, and the Civil Air Patrol were on hand giving away treats and hosting games. Cotton candy, popcorn, and balloon animals, free to all, made it feel extra special while many local businesses gave away food and drinks. Every year, Chick-fil-A sets up a booth and gives away chicken sandwiches. People come earlier and earlier each year to get on that line quickly and the line is huge because once they are gone, they are gone!
Suffolk County Legislator Nick Caracappa (C-Selden) and Clerk LaValle took this special evening to present awards to two cadets from the Civil Air Patrol for their achievements. Cadets Daelyn Wise and Tate McCourt both received the Mitchell Award, which requires passage of a comprehensive leadership exam, an aerospace dimensions exam, and a Healthy Fitness Zone (HFZ) in the Cadet Physical Fitness Test (CPFT).
Other elected officials also made the event, such as County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches), Assemblymen Doug Smith (R-Holbrook) and Ed Flood (R-Port Jefferson Station), Suffolk County Legislators Leslie Kennedy (R-Nesconset) and Chad Lennon (C-Rocky Point), and County Comptroller John Kennedy (R-Nesconset).
By coming together in this type of setting, the event helps to strengthen the bonds that make Suffolk County a great place to live.
