By TR Robertson
The newest Black Rock Coffee location, at 905 S. Santa Fe Dr. in Vista, hosted the Coffee With the Community event on Tuesday. A sizable crowd attended, visiting with city officials, Sheriff’s Department members, and Fire Department members as they enjoyed free coffee provided by Black Rock Coffee. Coffee With the Community events occur occasionally around the Vista area, giving residents a chance to get up close and personal with government officials, as well as fire and police members. They also provide an opportunity to pick up literature on various topics and programs. City of Vista officials provided information on Emergency Housing, Fair Housing Assistance, San Diego Shared Housing, Fire Safety, Youth Recreation Scholarships, the Gloria McClellan Senior Center, and a Gun Safety Event to be held on Saturday from 1:00 to 6:00 pm at the Superior Court in Vista. Lots of information about activities and staying informed.
The Sheriff’s Department provided information on E-Bike Safety, Car Theft Protection, the Neighborhood Watch Program, the Deputy Explorer Program, a Kids’ Coloring Book about safety, and Stop Bullying information. They also had information about the Gun Safety Event. They also had handouts on the San Diego County Blue Envelope Program. This program is a communication and awareness program for officers and community members who are diagnosed with a condition or disability, such as an autism spectrum disorder, dementia, anxiety, or other conditions that might require additional accommodation or awareness during a law enforcement interaction. Go to www.sdsheriff.gov/blueenvelope for more information. Senior Patrol members were on hand to discuss getting involved with the Vista Sheriff’s Volunteer Program for men and women 50 years of age and older. They encouraged calling 760-940-4434 to find out more information.
The Vista Fire Department distributed information about the Vista Fire Rescue Safe and Sound Program and Thanksgiving Safety. The Vista Fire Rescue has teamed up with the American Red Cross to provide and install free smoke/carbon monoxide alarms in the homes of residents. For more information, go to www.vista.gov/safe or email vistafireinspections@vista.gov. The information on Thanksgiving Safety focused on kitchen safety, including stoves, knives, children in the kitchen, smoke alarms, and being aware at all times to keep the area safe while preparing the Thanksgiving meal. It was pointed out that Thanksgiving is the leading day of the year for home fires involving cooking equipment.
Several City Council Members were on hand, Jeff Fox and Daniel O’Donnell, as well as Vista Mayor John Franklin, City Manager John Conley, and Assistant City Manager Imelda Huerta, to speak with concerned citizens. Vista Sheriff’s Captain John Malen and Fire Chief Gerard Washington were also in attendance to talk with residents.
This casual and informative event is a relaxing way to stay informed about city events and speak with the individuals who keep our community safe. Please be on the lookout for information on the next Coffee With the Community event and stop by for some coffee and conversation.
