The Glen Cove Police Department welcomed residents, first responders and community organizations to National Night Out on Aug. 4, an annual event aimed at strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the community while recognizing local leaders who have made a lasting impact on the city.
The evening featured emergency vehicles, family activities, community resources and opportunities for residents to meet members of the Glen Cove Police Department, Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department, Glen Cove EMS and other organizations in an informal setting.
For Police Chief Christopher Ortiz, the event carried special significance as his first National Night Out since becoming chief last year.
“I want to thank everybody for coming here and supporting us tonight.” Ortiz said. “This is very special to me because this is my first one as the chief of police.”
Ortiz thanked residents for their continued support of the department and reflected on what serving the city means to him.
“I am so honored and blessed to be your chief of police,” he said. “It means everything in the world to me.”
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2026 National Night Out Person of the Year award to Peter Foster, president and chief executive officer of YMCA of Long Island, in recognition of his longstanding support of the Glen Cove Police Department and the broader community.
Before presenting the award, Ortiz said the department annually recognizes an individual who has made a meaningful contribution to Glen Cove and described Foster as someone who consistently supported officers whenever they needed assistance.
“Anytime we would send a request to this individual, if we needed space, if we needed assistance, if we needed just a moment to unwind and use the facilities during COVID and during different times, he never said no, and he was always a friend to the Glen Cove Police Department,” Ortiz said. “I hope he continues to be a friend to the Glen Cove Police Department.”
The inscription on Foster’s award recognized his “outstanding dedication and unwavering commitment to the people of Glen Cove,” praising his leadership, compassion and commitment to fostering partnerships that have strengthened the community. After reading the inscription, Ortiz added, “No truer words have been written.”
Accepting the honor, Foster thanked the police department and the National Night Out committee for selecting him. “I’m sure there’s so many well-deserved people in Glen Cove, so I’m happy to be up here and one of the people chosen.”
Foster also praised the department’s work throughout the community, particularly its presence in local schools and the transition under Ortiz’s leadership.
“The way they patrol the schools in this community, and just protect the students, and essentially protect all of us, so I appreciate that,”Foster said.
He also commended Ortiz for what he described as a seamless leadership transition.
Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck congratulated Foster, recalling that she first met him about three decades ago through the YMCA and praising his years of service.
“Anytime the police have a request, you honor their request, you serve the police department and everybody else in the community, and we thank you for that.”
The event also highlighted the collaboration among the city’s police, fire and emergency medical services. Bobby Cappiello, a 30-year member of the Glen Cove Volunteer Fire Department, said National Night Out reflects the shared mission of local first responders.
“It’s important to help the residents of the city and help ensure everyone stays safe,” Cappiello said.
Held annually in communities across the country, National Night Out is designed to promote crime prevention, strengthen neighborhood partnerships and foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
