August 10, 2006

Hayes Mansion hosts National Night Out

By Candy Richter
Staff Writer

While most of the Dolce Hayes Mansion neighbors are very familiar with the location of the historic landmark hotel and conference center, a surprising few consider the shared San Jose park grounds as a community destination for play and leisure time. Well, the Hayes Mansion management decided it was time to change that perception and let their community know that they are active members of their community as well.

Captain Jack Farmer of the SJPD accepts a framed photo of the Dolce Hayes Mansion signed by the facility’s staff from General Manager Cedric Fasbender in honor of his pending retirement.

National Night Out, held on the evening of Aug. 1, gave Hayes Mansion the perfect opportunity to host an awareness function, connect with neighborhood contacts and let their community know that they share the priorities of safety and a family-oriented environment.

“We wanted to bring the neighbors over to the park and show that safety is our number one concern, said Shelley Domondon, of the Hayes Mansion executive offices. “Many of the neighbors knew of the mansion, but never came over,” she continued. “Everyone had a good time – the police, fire, everyone. This was targeted to families, neighbors. We wanted to show that we are part of this community, not just a hotel and conference center.”

According to Domondo, approximately 175-200 guests attended the facility’s first National Night Out event.

“The food was delicious and there was quite a turn out from the community,” said Captain Farmer. “It was very nice.”

Although the Hayes property is managed separately, the park grounds that the facility shares is owned by the city of San Jose and is available for public use.

About National Night Out
National Night Out, “America’s Night Out Against Crime,” was introduced by the National Association of Town Watch in 1984. The program was the brainchild of NATW Executive Director Matt A. Peskin.

In an effort to heighten awareness and strengthen participation in local anticrime efforts, Peskin felt that a high profile, high-impact type of crime prevention event was needed nationally. He proposed a national program, which would be coordinated by local crime prevention agencies and organizations - but that would involve entire communities at one time. The first National Night Out was introduced early in 1984 - with the event culminating on the first Tuesday in August.