An appeal from the Salvation Army for toys for needy families has resulted in an avalanche of gifts and donations from the community and local businesses.

Salvation Army Lieutenant Dean Clutterbuck made the appeal after wet weather affected donations to the annual Mudgee and District Bikers Club’s annual toy run.

“>Full article in Mudgee Guardian

COMMUNITY HARMONY & SPIRIT

Community Associations of today are the neighborhoods of yesterday. Community spirit means pride in a community, and spirited communities, like safe neighborhoods, have higher sale values. Community spirit creates an emotional equity that sets communities apart from the rest.

According to a national survey of Community Association Homeowner Satisfaction, the average community association resident volunteers twice a year for community-sponsored events. Nearly 60 percent of respondents said that they participate in each of the following community-wide events: parties, holiday celebrations, neighborhood watch programs, and community holiday decorating. Forty-five percent of respondents said that they participate in other social events. However, 45 percent of community association residents also admitted that they either never volunteer or only volunteer in their associations once a year.

What ways would you suggest to promote Community Spirit?

I say we start by bringing back the neighbourhood block party!