by Richard Lieberman
The Ventura Police and fire department held a community block party on Saturday, August 20, at the police and fire headquarters located on Dowell Drive in Ventura. The event was free to all Ventura residents. The block party gave Ventura residents an opportunity to engage with both officers and firefighters in a fun and family-oriented event. Included in the event were several activities for both adults and children including K-9 demonstrations, CSI experience, SWAT rescue vehicle, police motorcycles, child fingerpainting, police station tours, coloring contest, face painting and a visit from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office helicopter.
The Ventura Fire Department showcased events such as Jaws of Life vehicle extraction demonstration, Kid’s firefighter challenge course, fire prevention information, fire sprinkler demonstration, fire engines, hazardous materials vehicle and an ocean rescue vehicle.
Several Ventura dignitaries attended the event including Ventura Chief of Police Darin Schindler, City Manager Alex McIntyre, and Ventura Council Member Doug Halter.
“I got here a little early and people were already showing up before the official start time and interacting with the police officers and the employees everyone just seems excited to be here” said Schindler. The event was a great place for citizens to interact with their local police and fire personnel. It was a great way for residents and kids to meet police and fire personnel in a fun, family-oriented venue.
“This is great community policing, exactly what I was hoping for, and I knew it would be great because we have a great community and I have a great staff.” He added.
