Grand Island's National Night Out celebrates first responders

Story and photos by Senior Contributing Writer Alice Gerard

As Islanders watched from Town Commons, an Erie County Sheriff’s Department helicopter landed on Whitehaven Road at exactly 6 p.m. during the community’s celebration of National Night Out on Tuesday.

The road was closed between Baseline and Grand Island Boulevard, explained Town Councilwoman Rhonda Diehl at Monday’s Town Board meeting. “The reason we are closing that road is we will have law enforcement agencies here with equipment.”

Diehl said the helicopter was at the event thanks to the persistence of Councilman Jose Garcia.

“They will be here for the kids and the adults to touch, play, sit in, experience that helicopter. Then they plan to leave at 6:40,” she said.

The ECSO helicopter is a popular destination for visitors at National Night Out.

Maureen Gambino, lead singer for Rock Angel, sings a mix of rock and blues, and other styles, including southern rock, country, funk and some jazz.

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Also present at the parade was a marine unit and horses ridden by members of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office mounted reserve unit. There were activities designed for children, including games run by the Recreation Department, and face-painting. A costume contest was held, and children were invited to dress up as their favorite first responder.

“For all the kiddos, we’ll be doing a costume contest for their favorite first responder,” Diehl said. “We’ll have some prizes, both from the Fun Center and the Island Shoppe. Then we have squishy toys, which I’m told are all the rage. Last year, we had a couple of families that came dressed up, and that was really cool (group costume).”

The event also featured a dunk tank and live music from local band Rock Angel in the town’s gazebo.

“This is an opportunity to meet first responders, but also for area businesses,” Diehl said. “Our advisory boards will be present, (along with) some of the not-for-profits and civic groups. It’s a time when we can come out and build community and get to really know each other.

“I think what excites me the most is the community coming together. It’s an opportunity to engage with small businesses. We have a lot of artisan people who will be coming to show their products. There will be bakers. And there will be a lot of kids here. The children go to school together. They know each other. The parents have an opportunity to meet, as well.”