August 3, 2026
Dear Community,
As summer winds down, I want to personally invite you to a tradition I look forward to all year: our Community Block Party! Join us on Thursday, August 20th, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at the former Osborn playfield on Orchard Street. (Should the air quality be too unhealthy to hold the event outdoors, the Block Party will be held indoors at Cascade High School).
This event is truly one of my favorites—not just for the delicious food and fun activities, but because it shines a light on what makes Leavenworth so extraordinary: our people. We will have over 40 local agencies and nonprofits joining us to share resources, stories, and the incredible work they do every day. Whether you’re new to town or your family has been here for generations, you’re bound to learn something new and leave feeling inspired by the dedicated folks working right here in our community. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the many hands that help Leavenworth thrive.
We haven’t forgotten the kids! There will be a bouncy house and a water slide, so bring your towels and sunscreen. (For everyone’s safety, there will be a height requirement for the bouncy house.) With music, games, and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect evening to kick back and enjoy each other’s company.
Community isn’t just a place, it’s a practice. It’s something we build together, sharing laughs and stories.
One of the features that will make this year’s party even more special for me is that it is occurring right across the street from our latest city-supported housing project. Many of you know that an issue near and dear to my heart is the need for workforce housing. Without the ability to house some of our workforce locally, we are in danger of losing the very diverse and engaged residents that make this place worth celebrating. So, stop by our Housing Advisory Committee booth located right next to Upper Valley MEND’s table, and see what the wonderful partnership between the City, Upper Valley MEND, and local developer/builder Matt Melton is planning on Orchard Street. It will be a small community in itself when the eight cottage housing units take shape. Four of these will join MEND’s portfolio of permanently affordable home ownership units, and four will be sold at an unrestricted market rate. Come and talk to the Housing Committee about what they hope will come next.
Leavenworth is a true treasure—not just for its scenic beauty, but for its unbeatable spirit. That spirit shines brightly when we come together, not only in times of adversity, but in celebration, too. I hope you’ll join your neighbors and me on August 20th to celebrate our community.
Warmest wishes,
Carl Florea
Mayor | Office of the Mayor
[email protected]
