It's time for music, games and a chance to taste the area's best
cuisine, as the block party prepares to once again take over
Littleton's Main Street in June — or not.
Staring down the same slumping economic barrel as the rest of
the area, the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, which usually
foots the $36,000 bill, is looking at potentially canceling the
fifth annual event, which fills the blocks of the Historic District
with vendors, bands and more. But the decision ultimately lies with
the Downtown Merchants Association and the City of Littleton.
“What makes this such a great event is it's really a community
celebration,” said John Brackney, president of the South Metro
Denver Chamber of Commerce. “It’s almost small town Americana,
right in major metropolitan Denver.”
Events like the Block Party help business owners in the long
run, said Greg Reinke, long-time owner of the Reinke Brothers
Store. Though customers might not make the sales during the party,
they are more inclined to come back and spend the dollars
later.
“If we lose this sort of event during a recession, there’s no
return,” Reinke said.
Reinke is encouraging the Littleton community to help raise
money to keep the Block Party alive. He’s asking every business or
any interested party to donate $100 to the cause.
“No more than $100,” he said.
Reinke raised $800 in one-half hour, March 25, the day he
started the effort. He’s looking to raise at least $9,000 in two
weeks.
“If we don’t keep events like this alive, we’ll become even more
of a ‘Whoville,’ ” he said, citing the fictional village in Dr.
Suess’ “The Grinch.”
To make a donation, contact Greg Reinke at 303-795-5006, or
visit, 5663 S. Prince Street.
For more information on South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce,
visit www.bestchamber.com.
