Wooddale Way Block Party Unifies Neighborhood

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - On May 21, 2022, the Wooddale Way neighborhood off Old Auburn in Citrus Heights, came out in force once again for their 10th (nearly) annual ‘block party.’ The fact that Covid had forced a two-year break in the event disappeared as neighbors arrived as if no time had passed. Traditionally a July event, the date was changed this year to beat the hot weather. The neighborhood is located behind the former C Bar C Ranch on land that has seen several lifetimes of change in almost five decades.

Families living on the blocks surrounding the Fullmers arrived bearing their favorite potluck dish to share with those they see every day, new friends they are about to meet, and those they have not seen for years. Thanks to bright name tags, many quickly picked up where they left off.

Lamar and wife Van, now both 80, have lived in their home on Wooddale since 1975. The block party tradition began in 2010, the result of a lifetime of living in Citrus Heights. Lamar had moved to Citrus Heights as a child in 1945. His family lived in a house on Greenback Lane. He attended kindergarten at the old Community Center (the old schoolhouse), Sylvan Middle School, and San Juan High School. He remembered the simpler life when Greenback was a two-lane dirt road with huge oak trees forming an arch across the road. Sunrise was a gravel road which ended at Greenback.

When he and his wife retired in 2004, Lamar was looking for a way to recapture some of the simpler life he missed. 

The first block party, with 10 families and 15 children, has grown to over 40 families with 32 children. All of their children have attended Woodside School. All ages, ethnicities and family structure are represented. This annual homecoming has brought their neighborhood together in ways that span the entire year.  Interaction continues throughout the year, with meals provided for those recovering from surgery or illness, lawns mowed and garbage cans taken out for those who need it.  They also pick up mail, take care of pets and water plants for those on vacation.

The formula for the party remains the same except with a little help from Marcy and Jennifer this year. Having just turned 80, Lamar finally admitted he could use a little help bringing the event together. Neighbors Marcy and Jennifer jumped in, leaving Fullmer to perfect his famous teriyaki tri-tip. The traditional dessert table is always much anticipated.

The Fullmer’s own relationship with a family who moved here from Romania 16 years ago is a testament to the bonds formed on and around Wooddale. Over 16 years, Lamar has become an honorary grandpa to the family’s six boys ages 11 to 20 years, teaching them to be honorable and productive young men. They have full use of the Fullmer’s computer and game room in exchange doing their own chores and important tasks that serve their neighbors. This relationship has benefitted both families and is ongoing. Lamar says, “We really care about each other”. Two sons are now in college, and one graduates from high school this year. They continue to be mentored by Lamar and work for an allowance that helps them learn about and appreciate the value of money.

Shelly Barnes a neighbor of 32 years has seen many families come and go. He said the annual event brought together the east and west side of the neighborhood. His wife, a trauma nurse, is available whenever there is a need for medical help or advice.

More important than the annual get-together is what has come out of them: an unofficial neighborhood watch, and a new appreciation and caring for each other.  Neighbors say more than just ‘hi’ to each other. They know your name and if you have a need they can fill, they are there. Lamar says, “We really care about each other.”