Saturday, October 18th, brought the first
annual HVNA Fall Fest to Hayes Valley Playground, at the corner of Hayes and Buchanan Streets. Billed as a chance for neighbors to get together and enjoy each other’s company without having to participate in yet another meeting, the event was a magnet for adults and kids from throughout the area. We are very thankful for the support and participation of Hayes Valley Playground’s Recreation Director Fidel Joshua. Josh, as he is known around the ‘hood, continues strengthening neighborhood ties, bringing kids and adults together.

Having fun at the Fall Fest. Photo: Barbara Wenger

There was no shortage of great food, as HVNA contributed hamburgers, hot dogs and all the trimmings, and local restaurants Paxti’s, Suppenkuchen, Double Decker and La Boulange contributed specialties, too! HVNA Board member Karen Mauney-Brodek headed the committee putting the event together, with much help from Jamie Lopez, Richard Johnson and others. Board member Chris Mejia graciously donated the use of his professional outdoor grill and flipped many a burger, while Board member Bill Bulkley acted as the unofficial historian of the event, taking dozens of photos available here. Anyone needing help in viewing or downloading pictures can contact Bill at art@hayesvalleysf.org.

District 5 Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi was one of the attractions, mingling with his constituents, and ensuring both kids and adults were entertained by turning the bicycle art installation into a performance art piece. The energy given off by people riding green bicycles around the playground made it a wonderful afternoon for all! Besides the delectable food and art turned to life, there was also a moon swing, parachute, and other fun for people of all ages.

HVNA is all about the residents of Hayes Valley coming together in different ways to build a stronger community. While the organization has a strong reputation for its efforts in tearing down the freeway and building Octavia Boulevard and Patricia’s Green, as well as its efforts in helping produce many holiday events, it also works closely with people throughout the area to further public safety, art, green spaces, and so much more.

More fun at the Fall Fest; more photos here. Photo: Bill Bulkley

Membership in HVNA is low cost, with dues supporting production of the newsletter, many community events, committee work involving art, culture, parks and more, along with our partnership with Community Partners United and the many organizations in and around our community with which it is comprised.