Every year, Staten Island participates in "America's Night Out Against Crime." Started in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW), this night began an effort to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. NATW’s National Night Out program culminates annually, on the first Tuesday of August, across the entire country.
Though the event has been around for many years, I had never attended before. That is why, on August 6th, I was excited to see what it was all about! I joined Miss Southern New York's Outstanding Teen, Alexa Moley, and her family by Midland Beach to start the night.
Alexa was there helping out the Meals On Wheels table, which is her platform. We took a break to walk around, though, and see what the event was all about.
There were information tables for various charities, organizations, and (of course) our local heroes - firefighters, police officers, EMTs, veterans and so much more. Alexa and I even got to try out a few motorcycles! Okay...so we didn't actually drive them...but I enjoyed just modeling on them!
There were information tables for various charities, organizations, and (of course) our local heroes - firefighters, police officers, EMTs, veterans and so much more. Alexa and I even got to try out a few motorcycles! Okay...so we didn't actually drive them...but I enjoyed just modeling on them!
We took some time to have a mini photoshoot on the beach, too. It was just such a nice day and what a view! How could we resist?
Finally, it was time for a special appearance. As the crowd gathered around the stage, we received a visit from some very important people: Mayor Bloomberg, Borough President James P. Molinaro, NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly, among many others. They addressed the crowd and, before they left, we were even able to get a few pictures!
I had a wonderful "Night Out" with my mom, the Moley Family, and members of the Staten Island community that I have been fortunate enough to get to know. I know "America's Night Out Against Crime" will continue on for many years, raising community safety awareness, and inspiring the younger generations to become our new local heroes.