UNIONDALE HERALD: National Night Out debuts at the John J. Byrne Community Center

(Note: this article was originally published in the Uniondale Herald on 8/15/25 by Alexia Croll. The original article can be found here.)

For the first time, families, neighbors, and local law enforcement celebrated National Night Out at the John J. Byrne Community Center, marking a change from its usual location for the 40-year tradition held on the first Tuesday in August.

“We haven’t had a National Night Out in Uniondale since 2023, and it’s usually held at the fire department,” Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks said.

Nicks, who sponsored the night out with the county police and Uniondale Fire Department with a goal to strengthen police-community partnerships and public safety.

The legislator was the first woman to serve as Captain of Manor Company 3 of the Uniondale Fire Department and emphasized the significance of hosting the event at the community center. A place she believes reflects the heart of local civic engagement in her hometown.

“Utilizing this new space is great for everyone to get involved because it’s all about bringing awareness — getting everyone out here, interacting and seeing what the community has to offer,” she said. Attendees enjoyed a lively evening featuring bounce houses, a 360-degree photo booth and henna designs, along with music, games and food.

Informational tables from local organizations and businesses including the Uniondale Public Library and the Nassau County Board of Elections were also present, creating a festive environment where residents connected with one another and met local law enforcement in a relaxed, community-centered setting.

Corporal Davis of the Nassau County Auxiliary Police Department addressed common public misconceptions about his role in maintaining order, noting that auxiliary officers serve on a volunteer basis.

“Our job is to deter crime,” he said. “When people see the badge, my life is in danger. They don’t see the auxiliary, they just assume we’re the police.” As a volunteer, Davis’ job is to maintain a visible presence while working in tandem with the county police department to support patrols and enhance security at events and in neighborhoods.

He joined the department more than four years ago as a means of serving his community, and expressed that mutual respect is needed to maintain order between law enforcement and local residents. “We respect them, they respect us.”

David Greaves, president of the community center, was thrilled with the turnout of the first National Night Out held at his facility. “It feels amazing,” he said.

He is excited to see the center be utilized for such an important outreach and is looking forward to hosting more in the future.

“It’s nice to see all the people gathered and interacting with the police — it’s a blessing — we’re hoping to be hosting it again next year.”

Nicks thanked all patrons and supporters at the end of the event, including the Junior Fire Department and additional volunteers. “Our goal is to always be better and bigger”, adding that the annual gathering continues to foster stronger relationships between residents, first responders and local organizations.