Hannah Withers and the Block Street Business Association threw another great block party for 8,000 neighbors this year, and it was an amazing event. In many ways it represented the spirit of Fayetteville, combining the sounds of more than 40 musical groups, charity fundraisers, activities for kids of all ages, general merriment, and loads of fun for everyone.
As Withers said, “What’s really cool about Block Street Block Party is that it’s organized by Fayetteville locals especially for Fayetteville locals. It’s a day to celebrate one of Fayetteville’s funkiest business districts still standing, to unwind and to have fun together and with our families and friends.”
This year’s celebration was featured by USA Today College in a fine article by Caroline Bauman, noting the Block Street festival offered a perfect example of the cultural wealth college towns like Fayetteville have to offer. “It is little things like the Block Street Block Party that make me love Fayetteville so much,” said UA sophomore Jordan Miller, who volunteered at the event. “It’s cool to see college kids and families alike come celebrate the town’s local businesses.”
The annual event began last year as a celebration of the transformation of Block Avenue from a “Speedway to the Square” to an inviting, pedestrianfriendly local business district with landscaping, trees and vintage street lights along with 30 unique local businesses. The street has become a welcome andmuch needed link between the historic downtown square and the Dickson Street entertainment district.
As a downtown resident, I want to express my appreciation to the Block Avenue merchants for throwing a great block party, to the city for the improvements that revived the area, and to the whole community for coming together in a memorable celebration of our unique Fayetteville culture. I am already looking forward to next year’s Block Party.
STEPHEN SMITH
FayettevilleAs a former Walmart recruiter, I understand the importance of providinga quality school system to potential employees looking to move to our area. We all know that if companies want to recruit the best of the best, they have to offer families the best of the best schools.
Bentonville High School has definitely lost its competitive edge. The overcrowded Bentonville schools are no longer attractive to those considering moving to the area. Failure to pass the millage for a second high school will have longterm devastating eff ects for both students and our community. Don’t make a critical mistake. Vote yes for a second high school.
CARRIE JOHNSON
Rogers THE WRITER LIVES IN THE BENTONVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT.
Opinion, Pages 5 on 06/23/2012