T' is the season… for block parties
by Julie Gerth-Adams
Executive Director's Report
As the weather heats
up in Curtis Park, one of my favorite seasons is here-not summer, but block
party season. As a child I grew up in the country where orchards were abundant
but actual city blocks were non-existent. The idea of a real neighborhood
with rows of houses and neighbors next door was something I longed for.
Along with my dreamed-up fantasy neighborhood came visions of a block party
with neighbors socializing, children playing in the street, and grills sending
out delicious smells. Now I'm delighted that this time-honored tradition
has been thoroughly adopted for real by Curtis Park residents.
Anyone who has been in the neighborhood on the 4th of July knows what I'm
talking about. In fact, block party hopping is one of my favorite things
to do when this holiday rolls around. My husband and I are fortunate to
have several friends who live on blocks that stage these great slices of
Americana, and you can be sure we take advantage of every invitation we
get to join in the fun.
One year our block party circuit included a tricycle parade, a street carnival,
the most amazing tamales I have ever eaten, and a memorable finale of fireworks
on one block that also showcased a wall of various sparkling, whistling,
spitting devices synchronized to music. All of this marvel was choreographed
by a pyrotechnical wizard outfitted in a stars and stripes costume covered
with sequins and jewels!
Later this month, my own street-Castro Way- will join other blocks throughout
the neighborhood in celebrating Independence Day. As with most streets,
we have the old-timers, medium-timers and the new-comers. Since it is our
first block party-at least that anyone can remember-it is a wonderful way
for all of us to meet. It has been fun to watch the block working together
to plan this event.
If you are interested in holding a block party of your own, you can
download
an application from the City of Sacramento's Web site. It requires
signatures from 80 percent of the households on the street and a $10 application
fee. A small price and effort for a chance to create a group of friends
from among your neighbors, rather than just have them be occasional acquaintances.
Perhaps the next time you leave your home and think to yourself, "I
wonder who just moved into that house?" you could actually find out
at your very own block party.
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