The Friends of Del Cerro (FODC) were invited to participate in the second block party for the 5800 block of Arboles which is just around the corner from the Princess Del Cerro Park to promote Neighborhood Watch.

Myself, a resident of Arboles and a FODC board member, along with Jackie O’Connor, the president of FODC provided information about establishing a Neighborhood Watch and how to become involved with FODC. O’Connor stated, “It was such a pleasure to be part of this block party. It was a great opportunity to meet many of our Del Cerro residents.”

Kara Fusco and Robin Kozak were the primary organizers of this event.

Residents who have lived on Arboles for more than a decade frequently commented on how many children now lived on the block. The count has gone from nearly zero to 30. I commented that second base is in the middle of my front yard and the area has been happily deeded to the neighborhood whiffle ball players.

Fusco commented, “The block party was a blast – something we all needed. We wanted to give our neighbors an opportunity to meet one another, to connect and catch up more than just the waves from passing on the street. As parents, we loved watching the kids make memories with their community.”

In addition, there were activities such as face painting, a very large inflatable slide, a bicycle decorating contest and even a food truck. Engine Company 31 from our local fire station joined in with a full crew including Fire Captain Andrew Richardson who had transferred in just 48 hours earlier.

District 7 Councilmember Raul Campillo also attended and met many of the residents as he and his fiancé walked up and down the block. He even participated in the water balloon event.

Recently, FODC president O’Connor met with Anthony Hackett the senior community representative for Campillo to discuss community concerns and opportunities and to ensure there is a positive line of communication between FODC, Campillo and his staff.

FODC board members continue to meet with SDSU staff to discuss the long-range solutions and plans for Adobe Falls.

O’Connor attended the community leader meeting held at the San Carlos Library.

“On July 19th I attended community leaders meeting organized by David Ege, the branch manager of the San Carlos Library. David invited the presidents of several community groups to meet one another, give a five-minute outline of their organization and for a community update from Councilmember Raul Campillo. It was a great opportunity for the presidents to meet one another and discuss how they can work together. The participating organizations included Friends of Del Cerro, Friends of the San Carlos Library, Navajo Community Planners, San Carlos Community Garden, San Carlos Area Council, Henry Cluster STEMM Foundation, and the Grantville-Allied Gardens Kiwanis Club. We all agreed to meet regularly.”

For more information about Friends of Del Cerro visit: friendsofdelcerro.com.

– Jay Wilson is a board member with Friends of Del Cerro.