This story has been updated from an earlier version.
Hundreds of people around the county joined up with law and fire agencies Tuesday during the annual National Night Out. Over four decades ago 2.5 million people in 400 communities in 23 states around the U.S. took part in the first such event that was designed to bring together emergency responders and the residents they serve.
In downtown Watsonville, neighbors took part in games and arts and crafts while enjoying refreshments in the company of Watsonville Police personnel, Watsonville firefighters, and others.
“National Night Out is an absolutely amazing event because it really gets the community to come out and get to know each other,” said Watsonville Police Chief Brian Shab. “And that is the focus behind it: for neighbors to get to know neighbors and have those conversations that help us realize we are one team effort. It’s a great event.
At Pinto Lake County Park, 55 tents were set out with information tables, free food, games and engaging activities with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office as host.
“It’s a really important event because we get community groups and public safety workers all together to show our support for everybody in this area,” said Santa Cruz County Sheriff Chris Clark. “It’s also a way to let people know what public services are available to them. It’s an important bridge.”
