Walker Avenue residents celebrate in style

In an effort to become closer knit and celebrate local talent, a group of Fort Rouge residents hosted the inaugural Walker Avenue Block Party.

The Aug. 17 event met with a tremendous response, as the street played host to a mini-version of the Amazing Race as well as performances by rappers, a hip-hop dance group and local rock group The FO!PS.

“It was really encouraging because this is the first time we have done it and we got a good turnout,” said the event’s co-organizer Cheryl Moore.

“It took a lot of participation from a lot of people and people got to meet people they otherwise wouldn’t have so it was a really good community event.”

The event included free burgers, hotdogs and drinks, and a day’s worth of entertainment that went from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.

In between performances, there were draws for prizes donated by local businesses.

Moore says one of the most popular events staged during the party was a never-ending game of four-square for kids of all ages. Although many participants hadn't played in decades, they quickly got the hang of it.

“Who would have known that a piece of chalk and a ball could lead to such fierce competition,” Moore joked.

As a result of the success of this year’s party, Moore says planning has already begun for next year’s soiree.