August 4, 2005

It’s all about the kids

Hoffman/Via Monte Neighborhood Association National Night Out provides family time

By Jeanne Carbone Lewis
Staff Writer

The city bills it as America’s night out against crime. But it’s much more than that to Hoffman/Via Monte Neighborhood Association residents who attended the National Night Out event at Chris Hotts Park off of Almaden Expressway.

Special playground equipment is a big hit with the kids.

“It’s all about the kids,” said Juan Flores, South Hills Community Church coordinator, youth and family center serving the Hoffman/Via Monte area. “And the family. We gave away notebooks and pencils to the kids donated by Rite Aid. And then there were raffles for Trader Joe’s and City Diner certificates. But the main thing is that they all are having a good time.”

The 22nd National Night Out campaign involves citizens, law enforcement agencies, civic groups, businesses, neighborhood organizations and local officials in more than 10,000 communities from all 50 states, U. S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases worldwide. Thirty-four million people participate in the event that is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness and generate support and participation in local anticrime programs. It also strengthens neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships and sends a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the community associations to meet with the police,” said District 10 Councilmember Nancy Pyle at the event. “They can help solve problems in the neighborhoods. It’s very healthy.”

District 10 Councilwoman Nancy Pyle with Hoffman/Via Monte residents.

And the San Jose Police Department was out in full force for the family event. Capt. Jack Farmer was flanked by about 10 officers, all promoting good relationships with the community and addressing their concerns.

“We had a great turn out,” said Hoffman/Via Monte Neighborhood Association President Bill Santos. “There are about 200 residents who attended. And we had great support from the community businesses as well.”

But in the end it is all about the children. And what a time they had swinging and jumping at the play yard, some with pieces of fried chicken in their hands. Neighbors enjoyed each others company and civic leaders became more than city officials. They all came together for the common cause of building a sense of community in their neighborhood.