Tuesday, Aug. 2 was National Night Out, an annual event when police departments across the country introduce themselves to their communities, promoting safety and awareness. People gathered on the plaza at the Battery Park City esplanade to meet members of the N.Y.P.D. First Precinct and to enjoy food, games and live entertainment.
State Senator Daniel Squadron presented a proclamation in honor of the evening to Captain Edward Winski, the precinct’s commanding officer. Squadron noted that there was a time when “National Night Out was a once-a-year opportunity for communities to engage with the police.
“Now it’s a celebration that police-community relations have improved,” said Squadron. “I’m pleased to thank the officers and citizens who keep us safe every day and remind us all that police partnerships with the community must always be a priority.”
The Downtown Alliance and the First Precinct Community Council hosted the event, along with Community Board 1.
Julie Menin, C.B. 1 chair, said the event is crucial, “particularly in Lower Manhattan.”
“With everything our community has gone through since 9/11 and dealing with sensitive security matters, we appreciate the great work the First Precinct does,” said Menin. “This is a night where we thank and congratulate them.”
Also, numerous children were “deputized” and instructed on safety and security.
“I brought my three kids and they were thrilled,” said Menin. “It’s a chance for the kids to see what the precinct does and to learn about the partnership between the police and the community.”
— John Bayles
