Photo: Town of Warwick Supervisor Jesse Dwyer and Police Chief John Rader pictured with members of the Town Board (Deputy Supervisor Russ Kowal, Councilman Floyd DeAngelo), town administration (Town Clerk Eileen Astorino), Warwick law enforcement, volunteers, and community members during the 2025 National Night Out celebration at Veterans Memorial Park.
By Kat Leslie
On Tuesday, August 5, Veterans Memorial Park on Forester Avenue came alive as families, first responders, and local leaders gathered for the Town of Warwick’s annual National Night Out celebration. Hosted by the Warwick Police Department and the Warwick Valley Prevention Coalition, the event offered a fun, family-friendly evening with no admission fee—just community spirit.
Highlights included live music by the Black Dirt Bandits, a popular Touch‑A‑Truck exhibit, lawn games, vendor booths, and free hot dogs grilled by officers. Local children climbed into farm tractors and police vehicles, while parents connected with community groups offering wellness resources and safety information. Giveaways and raffle prizes kept the crowd energized throughout the evening.
The event was presented in partnership with the Warwick Police Department, the Warwick Valley Prevention Coalition, the Town and Village of Warwick, and other local partners.
In addition to the Warwick PD, other area police departments and emergency service providers participated. Many nonprofits and local businesses from across Warwick and Orange County were also on hand to offer resources, information, and support—giving residents a chance to learn more about the organizations serving their community.
Now in its 41st year nationally, National Night Out continues to bring Warwick residents together with the police officers and public servants who help keep their neighborhoods safe—all in an atmosphere of trust, transparency, and celebration. Its mission is to strengthen the relationship between residents and law enforcement while fostering neighborhood camaraderie and public safety awareness.
Warwick PD coordinated closely with town leadership and community partners to deliver a well-organized, engaging evening for residents. Everyone’s participation helped bring together public safety, family-friendly activities, and community outreach in a seamless and spirited celebration.
Town Supervisor Jesse Dwyer played an active role in promoting and participating in Warwick’s National Night Out—highlighting the event in his weekly newsletter, Supervisor’s Corner, and attending the event alongside Town and Village of Warwick officials. The collaboration extended to involvement from the Orange County Executive’s office and District Attorney Hoovler’s team, underscoring a coordinated push across local government entities to reinforce community safety and engagement.
Supervisor Jesse Dwyer praised the event’s success, emphasizing the vital role of local law enforcement in building community trust.
“The Warwick Police Department once again demonstrated their commitment to our community with an outstanding National Night Out event,” Dwyer said. “This annual gathering not only strengthens the bond between residents and law enforcement, but also highlights the dedication of our officers to keeping Warwick safe.”
He added that events like these reflect the strong partnerships between law enforcement and the Warwick community:” We are grateful for their service and proud of the partnerships that make our town such a great place to live.”
Town Supervisor and members of the Warwick Town Board were seen assisting with event logistics and warmly greeting residents alongside local officials and police.
“It’s great to see our local leadership stepping up at National Night Out and really showing up for the community,” said one attendee. “You can tell there was real effort behind making this event happen and bringing everyone together.”
Warwick Police Chief John Rader emphasized the importance of the event in building meaningful relationships between officers and the public. Warwick PD leadership helped unify public safety efforts, family-oriented activities, and outreach initiatives into one seamless and spirited evening.
“National Night Out is a time to come together as a community and highlight the important work our officers do to protect Hudson Valley families,” Chief Rader said. “I truly hope everyone stops by to meet with the officers who work every day to keep our entire community safe.”
The Warwick Valley Prevention Coalition echoed this message, emphasizing the event’s role in fostering a positive, substance-free environment where connection and trust can thrive. “The Coalition is proud to partner with the Warwick Police Department for this special event,” said Kristine Wilson, Director of Prevention at the Warwick Valley Community Center. “National Night Out is about building strong, positive connections between neighbors and law enforcement. It’s also a chance to come together in a safe, welcoming, and substance-free space that celebrates community, trust, and prevention.”
National Night Out in Warwick continues to be a cornerstone event that blends public safety, community fun, and civic engagement—highlighting the very best of local spirit and collaboration.
