The annual National Night Out in Los Banos was held in downtown Los Banos on Tuesday., Aug. 2.

There were over 40 vendors and community partners who participated in the event.

National Night Out began in 1984 as an effort to promote involvement in crime prevention activities, police-community partnerships, neighborhood camaraderie and send a message to the criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organizing and fighting back.

Not only was Los Banos Police represented with many officers greeting the public, but also in attendance were members of the VITAL Volunteers, Los Banos Firefighters, CAL Fire, Merced County Sheriffs and SWAT, California Highway Patrol and Merced County Probation.

State Farm Insurance Agent, Joe Gutierrez sponsored Exito Norteño, a live band from Atwater for those who wanted to dance in the street.

There were also many food vendors. Outdoor games, bounce houses and a mechanical bull were provided by Domingo Sandoval, owner of Sandoval Wood Creations.

The Westside Express