The Villages - August 2017 - 13

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the place to catch up with friends they don't get to see
as often as they would like.
"Sometimes people don't come to other events
and the driveway parties are the only way we can see
each other," Somers said.
She credits the relaxed atmosphere for their
increased attendance.
"It's a very casual event and there's no pressure,"
Somers said. "You just show up and don't plan ahead.
We almost do it like an open house, except the host opens
up their garage."
Charlie Tagman, five-year member of the Sanibel
Islanders, likes the easygoing nature of their parties.
"I enjoy them because they are impromptu and you
can decide at the last minute if you want to go," he said.
"It's a very comfortable setting."
Their driveway parties not only spark new friendships in
the group, but also strengthen existing ones, Somers said.
And once a year for the past four years, the Sanibel
Islanders go all out and throw a block party planned by
residents of Vandenberg Court, one of their most notable
being their Halloween party.
Multiple driveways participate to make the event a
success.
There are food and drink stations, costume contests, a
fortune teller and a whole lot of fun, Somers said.
"That one is really special," Somers said. "People from
outside the neighborhood come to that one."
Whether it's their monthly driveway socials or their
blowout bashes, the Sanibel Islanders know how to
throw a memorable, fun party.

Final SuggeStionS
Although there is no one right way to throw a block party, there are surefire ways
to make it easier on both the host and the guests. It is ideal to have the party
outside, but sometimes Mother Nature has other plans. So be prepared to move
the party into a neighbor's home if it rains. Try to walk to the party or park your
car and/or golf car in other neighbors' driveways to leave the host's driveway
and garage open for the festivities. Leave a sign-up sheet out for neighbors
to volunteer to host or to leave their contact information to stay connected for
future events. To keep the party lively, have a portable speaker with Bluetooth
connection on hand to play music. Finally, co-host the party with your neighbors
and delegate tasks to those who volunteer to keep the planning stress-free.

Be sure to check your deed
restric tions at distric tgov.
org or c all the communit y
standards department at
352-751-3912 to find out
where parking is off-limits
Before you throw your
part y. always make sure
emergenc y vehicles c an get
through on your street when
you plan where to park .

MAGAZINE

13



Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of The Villages - August 2017

Contents
The Villages - August 2017 - Cover1
The Villages - August 2017 - Contents
The Villages - August 2017 - 1
The Villages - August 2017 - 2
The Villages - August 2017 - 3
The Villages - August 2017 - 4
The Villages - August 2017 - 5
The Villages - August 2017 - 6
The Villages - August 2017 - 7
The Villages - August 2017 - 8
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The Villages - August 2017 - 12
The Villages - August 2017 - 13
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