Westminster celebrates National Night Out with more than 40 booths, public‑safety demonstrations and community recognition

City officials in Westminster hosted a National Night Out event that featured more than 40 community booths, live entertainment and public‑safety demonstrations intended to let residents meet local police, firefighters and other first responders. City Manager Kristen Cordon opened the program and thanked staff and partner agencies for organizing the evening.

“Tonight event is no smart undertaking. It features over 40 community booths, live entertainment, and exciting public safety demonstrations,” City Manager Kristen Cordon said. The event included representatives from the Orange County Fire Authority and the California Highway Patrol and staff from the offices of U.S. Rep. Derek Chen, state Sen. Tony Strickland, and Orange County Supervisor Janet Nguyen, who sent remarks.

Vice Mayor Menzel Caso urged residents to introduce themselves to officers at the event, saying, “We need them and they need us,” and encouraging community members to get to know the police and fire personnel who serve Westminster. Councilwoman Emily Fenwick described National Night Out as a tradition that “brings neighbors … strengthens the very foundation of our community, trust, safety, and unity,” and thanked first responders.

Organizers held raffles and prize giveaways during the event, including bicycle giveaways conducted by the Westminster Police Department and gift items sponsored by local businesses. Community Services Director Vanessa Johnson called raffle numbers and coordinated prize distribution. The program also included giveaways of Happy Meal packs sponsored by McDonald’s and a signed baseball from Angels player Joe Waddell.

In a ceremonial moment, event organizers recognized an 8‑year‑old Westminster resident, Benjie, for contacting authorities after observing a concern at a prior event; city speakers presented him with a new bicycle secured with the assistance of local partners. The presentation was a ceremonial recognition rather than a formal council action.

Local band Funk Station provided live music for the evening and promoted the city’s upcoming fall festival during their set. Throughout the program, city officials repeatedly thanked staff, volunteers and first responders for their work putting on the event.

The evening was framed as outreach and community building rather than a venue for formal council business; no ordinances, motions, or votes were taken during the event portion of the program.