This week's Velocity (June 6-12)has a good article about a block in Germantown that has been building a sense of community through community activities. Its always good to learn from the success of others:
http://www.velocityweekly.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070606/VELOCITY01/706060863/1065

Great Story

Thanks for posting such a nice article, Steve. I predict that you're going to find that folks from West Saint Catherine and environs have tons of stories like the ones these Germantown neighbors tell. For example, just ask new resident, Nancy McCormick, the reasons for her move to Old Louisville. I remain convinced that one of the best kept secrets around Louisville is the real sense of community spirit that is alive and well in the urban historic districts of Old Lousiville/Limerick.

Maybe the time has come AGAIN

You're right, Steve. This is a nice article, and it's good to learn from the success of others. We've tried a number of these events on West St. Catherine, and at the time they were quite enjoyable and successful. Here's the catch: Our neighborhood is much more transient than you've found out yet. We lose good volunteers quickly because they weary of crime and litter. With the new blood that has come into the neighborhood recently, we can revisit (for the third or fourth time) some of the things that Germantown has tried, and indeed we have comparable events in the works. Right now, we are specifically addressing the issues that have driven away so many of your helpful and cooperative predecessors--that of rising crime and the filth of our sidewalks and streets. Furthermore, WSCNA events are in the works: a picnic in Central Park, cookouts this summer, and get-togethers in a number of neighborhood homes, all in addition to the two fund-raisers (St. James Art Fair and Victorian Ghost Tour) in October.
This is going to be a gradual process, its foundation established on a thorough knowledge of local terrain. That knowledge is experiential, and takes a while to gather. Welcome aboard, and we're very glad to have your input and your helping hand.

By Michael Williams