Preparing for National Night Out, Ignacio “Nacho” Villanueva presents Gridley Chamber President Lynne Spencer with a $500 check from Nacho’s Electric, flanked by police officers Cristian Bonilla on the left, and Clint Massey on the right. Bicycles from many donors are in the background.  Photo by Connie Voss

                

GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – The annual National Night Out will be held Tuesday, Aug. 5 at Manuel Vierra Park, from 5 to 8 p.m. Gridley Chamber of Commerce is coordinating the event with Gridley Police and CalFire.  

So, what is National Night Out?

According to the official website www.natw.org, the event was started in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch to build stronger community relationships with law enforcement, reduce crime and have fun in the process.  400 communities participated that first year involving 2.5 million people across 23 states. Since then, the annual gathering has grown to include all fifty states, plus US Territories and Canada.  Neighborhoods have hosted block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and various other community events with safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events and visits from emergency personnel according to the website.

As in years past, the Gridley event will have food trucks, live music, a bounce house/water slide, lawn games, vendor booths and of course, the park’s ever-popular splash pad. Snow-cones, face painting and free balloons will add to the festivities.

Gridley Police and CalFire officers will be circulating during the activities, answering questions and handing out goodies.

The most exciting part of the evening will be the bicycle giveaway. As of press time, 25 bikes/trikes, three scooters and a “Glide” hover board were donated. Additional donations are still being welcomed at Gridley Chamber, 890 Hazel St. The goal is to acquire 40 bikes.

The drawings are free, with a separate drawing for each bike. The children will get a numbered ticket with a corresponding wrist band. Each participant will drop his or her ticket into a bag on the bike of their choice. The drawing will take place about 7:30 p.m. with Butte County Supervisor Tod Kimmelshue, and the winners of each bike will be announced.

Gridley Chamber President Lynne Spencer said that this is her favorite part of National Night Out.

“The smiles (of the winners), that’s what means the most to me,” Spencer said.

Ignacio and Patty Villanueva of Nacho’s Electric in Biggs, made a large cash donation of $500 and seven bikes with helmets. Nacho’s has served Butte County’s electrical needs for 17 years.

Another popular part of the event is the distribution of free school backpacks and supplies, purchased by the Gridley Chamber.  The items will be distributed by Gridley Quota Club.

Make sure to join the community for an evening of family fun.