People in our strata wanted a block party! Our Block Watch committee met twice and planned a 2-hour afternoon event similar to the one we held in 2018 & 2019. We invited the VPD motorcycle squad, the Firetruck and Project 529 Garage (to register bikes – this was popular); they all came! A warm afternoon brought people out with their bikes to have a free tune-up, mingle with neighbours (there were many new faces), munch on free hot dogs, donuts & chips. The lemonade was full strength and thirst quenching, so we had to keep making more! One aim was to sign up 10 new Block Watch participants; that did not happen, but we do have a nice new Welcome To Block Watch package ready as needed. Amy Anderson taught us about invasive plants and what alternative plants to use in the garden, and our grant bought handouts. Adults registered for the attendance draw and took home some 19 prizes donated by local businesses! Kids had fun with activities like pet rocks, duck races, Connect 4, board games & bean bag toss. Some friendships were made or rekindled. Kids took turns bashing the Piñata – a fun finale enjoyed by all. 96 attended, 25 of whom were youth; it was nice to see teenagers participate. Two Rangers (teen Girl Guides) were very helpful with the kids, making signs, handing out freezies, and cleaning up. One unexpected thing that happened was that a new owner set up a shelter and table & chairs, providing welcome shade and a relaxing place. A challenge was the liability insurance, which increased to $280; the strata council decided it was a worthwhile expense, a cost of $3/household. All told, it was a fun and successful event, and we’ll do it again.
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