SALINAS VALLEY — National Night Out took place last Tuesday in the Salinas Valley cities of Gonzales, Soledad and Greenfield, bringing together families, first responders and local organizations for an evening of community connection hosted by each police department.
On Fourth Street in Gonzales, the Aug. 4 event had plenty of food, fun and games while striving to build bonds within the community. Participating nonprofit organizations included Legal Services for Seniors, Sun Street Centers, American Legion Auxiliary and the Monterey County District Attorney’s Office.
“The event was well attended, as we had a few hundred people there at the end,” said Gonzales Police Chief Keith Wise. “It was an opportunity for the residents to meet the business owners and receive information from the vendors, win some raffle prizes and eat some good food together.”
At the Community Center, National Night Out in Soledad was a huge success with hundreds in attendance both inside and outside the facility. More than 40 organizations contributed to this year’s event.
Music played all night long as participants talked, played games and enjoyed delicious food, including sweets during the donut eating contest.
“Thank you to everyone who helped make National Night Out such a success,” posted Soledad Police Department on social media. “We appreciate every volunteer, performer, sponsor, vendor, and community member who joined us.”
In Greenfield, National Night Out featured entertainment, food and raffle prizes along with information booths at Village Green Park. The event allowed the community to meet local first responders, talk to community groups and learn about local resources.
“We had about 300 people show up for the National Night Out,” said Greenfield Police Department Executive Assistant Elsa Hernandez. “Everyone enjoyed having the chance to get together as a community at the park. There were over 20 vendors available and people also enjoyed taking pictures inside the CHP helicopter. We also had a DJ providing music and performances by the Folklorico dancers from Arcoiris.”
