Thank you Houghton for Hought-Down picnic | Letter

Central Houghton Neighborhood Association had its 22nd annual Hought-Down picnic on Labor Day. As with almost all community events, this celebration would not happen without the many “people behind the scenes”. I would like to take the time to thank them.

Central Houghton Neighborhood Association had its 22nd annual Hought-Down picnic on Labor Day. As with almost all community events, this celebration would not happen without the many “people behind the scenes”. I would like to take the time to thank them.

First, let’s thank the city of Kirkland for supporting and for helping to fund the work of the now thirteen neighborhood associations in Kirkland. This lets neighborhood associations hold meetings, communicate with neighbors about issues, and hold wonderful events like our Hought-Down. Thank you.

Next, I’d like to thank Metropolitan Market for their generous donation of food for our picnic. Since becoming part of our neighborhood in 2010, they have been active members of our community, and not just with our association but with many groups in Kirkland. Thank you.

Kirkland Children’s School has designed and printed our flyers for several years now. This contribution to our community is a generous donation of time and effort. They have always stepped forward and said, “How can we help?” Thank you.

And many thank yous go out to the strong group of volunteers that year after year , make this neighborhood tradition happen. The Usual Suspects know who they are and should be proud. Having personally been a part of this group for the past 16 years, they are the reason that I love my neighborhood. Thank you.

Finally, a special thank you to Kristin, Andrew, Claire, Anna, and Hannah. I watched all of them grow up at the Hought-Down. They were most of the reason we had this event; to bring families together in a day of fun. They came as young children to march in the parade, play games, and share a meal with their neighborhood. Now, as young adults, they have picked up the mantle and were instrumental in making this event happen. We literally could not have had Hought-Down 2014 without them. They stepped in to set up, clean up and run the face painting booth. They are the best part of Houghton and the reason I really love my neighborhood. Thank you.

Lisa McConnell, Kirkland