Residents came out for an evening of fun and safety information at the 29th Annual National Night Out event at on Tuesday night.
The program, sponsored by Legislator Norma Gonsalves, the Nassau County Police Department and the Council of East Meadow Community Organizations, was designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness.
Gonsalves said that she has taken part in the event for 25 years.
"I have made it my business to bring the community together to increase awareness on how people can protect themselves, their children and their property," she said. "It's about bringing the community and the police department together to keep us all safe."
Nassau County Police Commissioner Thomas Dale agreed.
"The police and the community don't mingle that much and this is an important opportunity that allows us to get to know each other," he said.
The event, which was geared toward child safety, included food, balloon sculpting, face paintings and a demonstration by the Nassau County Arson Robot for children. Materials from the Nassau County Police Department's Young Explorer Program and the R.E.A.C.H. Program were available for parents, as well as information on Megan’s Law and Child I.D. Kits.
Donna Goldstein of East Meadow said that she and her children, Ryan, Nicholas and Jenna, have attended the event for the last five years.
"I feel that there should be more events like these," she said. "It is mostly geared toward younger kids which is great, but I would like to see it geared toward older children."
Brad Martin came out with his two little girls, Karina and Kyrea.
"This is a great night to get information on child safety," he said. "It's great for the kids and they really enjoy it."
As the event came to a close, Gonsalves told the crowd to always remember a significant way to combat crime.
"If you see something, say something," she said.
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