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Community Corner

Richfield Resident Wins KDWB Night to Unite Block Party

As part of the public safety celebration Tuesday, a close-knit neighborhood also recognized residents of all ages.

As part of activities in Richfield Tuesday night, residents in one neighborhood on the city’s east side had an additional impetus to gather after Stephanie Thurow won a block party from KDWB’s "street team" the day before. Intern John and Cisco, radio personalities from the Dave Ryan in the Morning Show, were in attendance with a mobile DJ vehicle, fresh snacks—including a six-foot sub sandwich courtesy of Subway—and prizes.

"We were only going to do root beer floats, but then [Thurow] called me," said Nancy Diercks, the neighborhood block captain. "[Then the] street team] brought all this stuff."

"I just signed up online, through KDWB’s website, and then they called me," said Thurow, explaining how quickly plans for the neighborhood’s annual block party had changed.

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Andy Macklem, of Citizens Emergency Response, joined Joe Edwards as part of Night to Unite activities in the city. Edwards was one of the party’s big hits, explaining how his $1,500 tactical vest worked before letting children (and one adult) try it on to the fanfare of friends, neighbors and family.

The close-knit neighborhood, many of whom have lived there since the first homes were built more than 50 years ago, also celebrated the birthday of longtime resident Dominick Prest. Members of the KDWB staff sang "Happy Birthday" to him alongside long-time neighbors and friends. Although Prest doesn’t live in Richfield anymore, he tries to come back regularly after spending 56 years of his life in the same home. He celebrated his 95th birthday on Sunday.

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"It’s a good life," he said when asked about coming back.

Dolores Everson, who has also lived in the area for more than 50 years, said the neighborhood had changed dramatically.

"The sad thing is that we’ve lost a lot of people our age, but a lot of young people with kids have moved in," she said. "It’s been a long time since we’ve heard all this screaming."

Stay tuned for another photo gallery of other Night to Unite events throughout the city later Wednesday morning.

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