The parking lot of the Salvation Army headquarters on Bedford Street was transformed into a neighborhood block party for residents of the surrounding area on Saturday, July11, 2009. Organized by the Natalie Melo and Jenn Boulay of the Bank Street Neighborhood Association, the event brought people together to eat, socialize and have fun on a beautiful July day. "These events help people to get to know one another," commented Natalie Melo, "and the more people know one another the safer and more cohesive the neighborhood becomes," she added. The Salvation Army often hosts events put on by the Association. "They are a great neighbor," noted Jenn Boulay. "We wouldn't be able to do an event like this without their help," she noted while thanking Major Deming and his staff for their help. For more information about this event or the Association, contact Natalie Melo at 508-679-4119.      
 

(Top row, left) Thais Viana prepares to paint Cheyene Medeiros' face while Jaydon Medeiros watches Cadel Lila Droz get ready to paint Ashley Lancia's face. (Top row, center) Cheyene Medeiros shows off her newly-painted face. (Top row, right) Major Elmer Deming works with Cadel Walter Droz and volunteer Tracey Medeiros to prepare burgers and hot dogs for the crowd. (Middle row, left) Volnteer Cassie Eddie shows Ashley how to pass a water balloon with a spoon while Cheyene watches. (Middle row, center) Bank Street Neighborhood association president Natalie Melo chats with Avery and Jenn Boulay, Catherine Moniz, Medora LaPlante, Chris Mitchell, Daniel Washington and Barron Sylvia. (Middle row, right) Gabriel Miranda throws a ball at a stack of postal boxes as Dawn Young coaches. (Bottom row) Dan Washington, Barron sylvia and Chris  Mitchell prepare to provide a krump dancing demonstration for the crowd.