Monte Vista police officers Corporal Tyler Hartford, Sergeant Micheal Martinez, Evan Dick, Micheal Avila and Joshua Hill were on hand to meet with those in attendance at last week’s National Night Out event.

MONTE VISTA— Neighbors, law enforcement and first responders filled Chapman Park on Tuesday, Aug. 6 for Monte Vista’s second Annual National Night Out. National Night Out is a community building campaign, and communities all over America participate in bringing citizens and those who serve them together. This year more than 300 people came out to connect with their Monte Vista neighbors and those who serve and protect their community.
“It’s a great chance for the community to get to know us in a relaxed setting. Unless something bad happens they don’t really meet us. So National Night Out gives us the opportunity to get to know each other. We can have food, and have fun together,” said Sergeant Michael Martinez of the Monte Vista Police Department.
The event provided lots of fun for those attending. There were drawings for great prizes ranging from t-shirts to a camera security system. The Division of Wildlife set up targets and archery lessons for those interested. The Monte Vista Emergency Food Bank had face painting which was very popular with the younger crowd, and Calvary Baptist Church provided a puppet show for the children. There were also friendly cornhole competitions.
There was a lot of good food, and the long lines were served quickly by members of Monte Vista City Council and other government workers. They served over 300 hamburgers; the city provided the food for the event. Snow cones were also available and were very popular on the warm summer night. Neighborhood Watch had a table at the event and handed out 150 cookies, before they ran out.
Public works had their tractors and machinery out on display, and many of the children enjoyed pretending to operate the heavy equipment. There were several children at the event; it was a great chance for them to connect with local law enforcement. Especially during the water balloon fight when police officers engaged with the children in some summer fun.
Mayor Dale Becker told the children, “Police are here for you. Don’t be afraid of them, and always know if you need help, you can go to them.”                                  
Becker also stood before the community and thanked all the first responders, law enforcement, fire department, public workers, EMTS and everyone who helps to keep the city of Monte Vista safe. He also thanked the community for their support and said, “Be there for each other. We are one big family, one big city, and this city is ours.”