Gustine and Newman recently hosted their annual National Night Out events, bringing families together for evenings filled with fun, community bonding, and safety awareness. The events, held on Aug. 6 in Newman and Aug. 9 in Gustine, were well-attended and provided a perfect blend of entertainment, education, and community pride.

Newman’s National Night Out was a vibrant gathering, where families from the town and surrounding areas came together to enjoy a night of laughs and community spirit. The event featured a variety of information booths, offering valuable resources to residents while local first responders, including the Newman Fire and Police departments, proudly displayed their vehicles. Children were thrilled to explore the fire trucks and police cars, with sirens blaring and lights flashing, adding to the excitement.

Local volunteer Victor Perry was honored during the event, receiving a Certificate of Recognition from Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil’s staff for being named Police Services Volunteer of the Year. The award was a highlight of the evening, underscoring the importance of community service.

The night was brimming with activities, including a popular dunk tank that had kids lining up for a chance to send their favorite volunteers into the water. Slushies were a big hit, evident from the colorful smiles of children dashing around the event.

“It’s so great to see everyone out here, especially the kids,” said local parent Angela Martinez, who attended with her two children. “The sense of community is so strong in Newman. My kids loved the dunk tank and getting to see inside the fire trucks. It’s nights like this that remind us why we love living here.”

Seven-year-old Emily Sanchez echoed the sentiment, saying, “I had so much fun! The slushies were yummy, and I got to play with the police siren!”

As the sun set, families gathered to watch a special outdoor screening of “Zootopia,” a perfect end to a night filled with joy and camaraderie. “This is what community is all about—bringing people together,” noted Newman resident David Hollis. “We need more events like this.”

Three days later, Gustine hosted its own National Night Out, and the small town did not disappoint. The event was a lively celebration, filled with laughter and activities that drew families from all corners of the community.

Bounce houses were a major attraction, with children lining up to jump and play. The dunk tank was equally popular, especially when local lifeguards took their turn in the seat, much to the delight of the crowd.

“We come every year since they started this, and it just gets better,” said Gustine resident Laura Bennett, who attended with her husband and two children. “The kids were over the moon with the bounce houses and dunk tank. Plus, we got some great school supplies that will really help us out.”

Local organizations and businesses set up information booths, offering giveaways and resources to help families prepare for the upcoming school year. Backpacks and school supplies were distributed, with many children proudly showing off their new gear.

“There’s a lot of people here and a lot of cool stuff,” said nine-year-old Tyler Nguyen. “I got a new backpack, and I got to see the fire trucks up close! It was awesome!”

Gustine’s first responders were also out in full force, allowing kids to explore fire trucks and police cars, much to their delight. “The kids had a blast with the trucks, and it’s a great way for them to connect with the people who keep them safe,” remarked Lisa Perez, a parent from Santa Nella.

The evening concluded with a special showing of “Leo” at the Gustine Aquatics Center, where families could enjoy the film while swimming. “What a perfect way to end the night,” said John Carter, who brought his grandchildren to the event. “It’s events like this that make you proud to live in a town like Gustine.”

As both towns wrapped up their National Night Out celebrations, the message was clear: Community matters. These events not only provided a night of fun for families but also reinforced the importance of coming together to build a stronger, safer, and more connected community.