July 18, 2006 > Street Party Returns

by Steve Warga

If it's the third Thursday in July, it's Street Party time again in Hayward. Join thousands of others downtown from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. for all the fun. You'll discover another batch of gleaming hot rods and classics; you'll find more eats and treats; there'll be many kid-sized entertainments too.

This month, for the first time ever, party-goers will get to visit the brand new Fire Prevention Trailer presented by the Hayward Fire Department. This clever display provides virtual reality experiences with certain safety hazards like smoke from a fire or the feel of earthquake tremors. Kids can walk through all the procedures for detecting smoke, evading it and moving to a predetermined "family meeting place". The entire experience is both educational and entertaining. Along with coaching from fire department personnel, kids will get a dose or two of wisdom from Sparky the Fire Dog and a vigorous tail wag too!

Also new this month, the Hayward Historical Society invites you to "disco down and check out the show" at their '70s exhibit and try your hand (or voice) at a "Karaoke Jam" at 7 p.m. It'll be far out, funky and totally groovy.

There will be even more vibes from on the street from this month's featured performers: Batuka (B Street All Stars) and classic rock dance band, The Diehards. Be there or be square!