PORT JERVIS – The City of Port Jervis’ 18th National Night Against Crime was held at East Main Street Elementary School and historic Glennette Field Tuesday evening, a new location for the city’s annual event. Thousands attended during the three-hour event, supporting the free-of-charge community mission against crime.
Dozens of community organization booths were posted around the site to be enjoyed as friends, neighbors, and families strolled the grounds together, stopping to enjoy the wide range of games and gifts that were offered. Bubbles, beach balls, American flags, thousands of grilled hot dogs, water, fruit and snack packages, Italian ice treats, and more were among items distributed throughout the well-attended event.
In addition to visiting dozens of booths, visitors were able to enjoy the entertainment of Macaroni the Clown, a fire show and stilt walker from Flaming Barrel of Monkeys, Shen Yun dancers, fire and EMS demonstrations, and individual games and prizes.
Officials praised local NNO hosts and all who attended in support of the event’s mission.
“Tonight we join communities across the nation in sending a powerful message – that we are organized, engaged, and committed to keeping our neighborhoods safe,” Port’s Police Chief William Worden told those gathered around a central stage. “National Night Out is about more than awareness. It’s about strengthening the partnerships that make a real difference. When we all stand together, our community becomes stronger, safer, and more connected.”
Worden encouraged all to spend time throughout the evening with community organizations, first responders, and school representatives, and to learn about resources, build connections, and see how each person plays an important role in keeping the community safe and thriving.
Port’s Mayor Dominic Cicalese praised all involved in NNO, and its success.
“This event is very important for our city. This was by far one of our largest community turnouts for NNO. The change of venue for this year – at EME – was great. Chief Worden has outdone himself again,” Cicalese said, following the event. “The city is thankful to Dr. Bell and the PJSD staff for this wonderful idea and assistance this year.”
Dr. John Bell, Superintendent of Port Jervis School District, said when asked by Chief Worden about hosting NNO, the district agreed right away.
Bell said besides being able to show off the fully renovated EME and Glennette Field to the community, the district considers itself lucky to have Port’s police department involved with kids throughout the school year.
“We were glad to be able to host NNO. PJPD is such a great asset to our community and a wonderful partner to our schools,” Bell said.
Bell was joined by Emily Mesnick, Principal of Hamilton Bicentennial School, who shared her pride not only in the schools but in being part of generations of family members – like other NNO speakers – who have lived in the district’s communities. Menick said she loves her community and is glad to have been raised – and be raising her children – in her hometown community.
Other speakers praised the mission of NNO locally, as well as across the nation.
Speaking on behalf of Senator James Skoufis, Regional Affairs Coordinator Liz Miller said the senator is proud to support NNO across the district and its mission of fostering community relationships between the police department and community.
Miller said Skoufis was able to secure and provide $10k for Port’s NNO, amongst others, and is grateful to the school district for hosting this year’s event.
Assembly Karl Brabanec said he considers NNO always one of the best community events each year, and stressed the mutual importance of its mission and outreach.
“It’s wonderful to see our entire community come together to celebrate and pay tribute to our law enforcement officers, fire department officials, and EMS,” said Brabenec.
Group photo: L-R: NYS Assemblyman Karl Brabenec, PJ 3rd Ward Councilman Jeffrey Rhoades, PJ Mayor Dominic Cicalese, PJPD Chief William Worden, PJSD Superintendent John Bell, PJSD Director of Communications & Academic Services, Hamilton Bicentennial School Principal Emily Mesnick, PJ 1st Ward Councilman Jason Vicchiarriello, PJSD Director of Communications & Academic Services Andrew Marotta, and Elizabeth Miller, Regional Affairs Coordinator for Senator James Skoufis
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