THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, AugusT 7, 2026 Page 13 Pictured from left: At-Large Councillor John Hanlon, Ward 3 Councillor Anthony DiPierro, Police Chief Paul Strong, Ward 2 Councillor Stephanie Martins, Ward 4 Councillor Holly Garcia, and Ward 5 Councillor Vivian Nguyen. (Photos courtesy of City of Everett) Mayor Robert J. Van Campen poses with a young community member on an Everett Police motorcycle. Members of the Everett Police and Fire departments were all smiles greeting attendees. Mayor Robert Van Campen, Everett Police Chief Paul Strong, Fire Chief Joe Hickey and Rev. Bishop Brown are shown with members of the Everett Police department. Sergeant Eric Williamson connecting with residents during National Night Out. CELEBRATES | FROM PAGE 1 responders who serve Everett every day. Families enjoyed games, food, music, public safety demonstrations, and interactive activities throughout the evening. Children had the opportunity to climb aboard police cruisers, fire trucks, and ambulances while meeting the first responders who help keep the community safe. “National Night Out is one of my favorite events of the year because it brings our community together in such a meaningful way,” said Mayor Robert J. Van Campen. “Public safety is about more than responding to emergencies. It’s about buildEverett Police Sergeant Kenney Kelley moments before he was dunked into the water. ing relationships, earning trust, and making sure every resident knows the people who are here to serve them. Thank you to everyone who helped make this another wonderful evening for Everett families.” National Night Out is an annual event celebrated by communities across the country to promote police-community partnerships, neighborhood safety, and stronger connections between residents and public safety agencies. “One of the most important parts of policing is building relationships with the people we serve,” said Everett Police Chief Paul Strong. “National Night Out gives our officers the opportunity to connect with residents outside of emergency situations, answer questions, and spend time with families in a welcoming environment. Those conversations build trust, and that makes our community stronger.” The Everett Fire Department also participated in the event, giving families the chance to meet firefighters, tour fire apparatus, and learn more about fire safety. “Events like National Night Out remind us that our job is not only to respond when people need us, but also to be active members of the community every day,” said Everett Fire Chief Joe Hickey. “SeeTwo future first responders, or superheroes, check out the firefighter’s gear. ing children climb aboard the fire trucks, ask questions, and interact with our firefighters is always a highlight.” The City of Everett thanks the Everett Police Department, Everett Fire Department, Cataldo A young attendee picks out a fire helmet during the National Night Out event. Ambulance Service, City staff, volunteers, community organizations, and everyone who attended for making this year’s National Night Out another successful celebration of community and public safety. Everett Police Chief Paul Strong, Fire Chief Joe Hickey, Sparky the Fire Dog and friends at the Everett Fire Dept. Tent.
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