National Night Out brings police and neighbors together in Franklin Square

Posted Friday, August 15, 2025 12:10 pm

The Nassau County PAL Inwood/Lawrence Cheer Group shows patriotism during National Night Out as members proudly carry an American flag.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald photos

From left, James Bibbee, security manager at Belmont Park Village; Deputy Inspector Michael DeStefano of the 5th Precinct; and Dennis McCartney, director of operations at Belmont Park Village, mingle with community members.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald photos

Junior firefighters Eibhlin Moriarty, left, Michael Laperuta, Thomas Moriarty, Mason Smith and Ethan Ng show their community spirit by representing the Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department during National Night Out.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald photos

From left, Jasmine Hinostroza, Angel Hinostroza, Emily Hinostroza, Ron Rampino, Christine Hillaris and John Hillaris represent the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2718 Auxiliary.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald photos

Members of the Nassau County PAL Inwood/Lawrence Cheer Group perform an energetic routine to kick off National Night Out.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald photos

Volunteers from Home Depot hand out paint and art supplies to kids as part of community engagement during the annual event.

Melissa Baptiste/Herald photos

By Renee DeLorenzo

The Nassau County Police Department’s Fifth Precinct joined communities across Franklin Square, Elmont, West Hempstead and Valley Stream for the 41st Annual National Night Out Against Crime, a nationwide program aimed at promoting police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie, on Aug. 5.

The Fifth Precinct’s celebration took place at Rath Park in Franklin Square from 6 to 8 p.m. Organized with the help of County Legislator Carrié Solages, Green Acres Mall management, local civic associations, chambers of commerce, local politicians and auxiliary police, the event featured raffles, a “Touch-A-Truck” display and food trucks.

Sponsors included the Home Depot, Target, 7-Eleven, Jovia, Walmart, Bethpage Federal Credit Union, Dick’s Sporting Goods, North Star Auto Body, Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices, TD Bank and the Franklin Square and Munson Fire Department.

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that brings law enforcement and residents together to strengthen relationships, support local programs and boost neighborhood spirit.

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National Night Out brings police and neighbors together in Franklin Square

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