Bloomington Block Party Called Off Following Neighborhood Shootings
By: Kim Behrens
Updated: June 29, 2012
BLOOMINGTON--A block party on the city's west side is being called off, following two shootings in the area this week.
Yesterday, the party was still a go, but after talks between city leaders, neighbors, and police it's put on hold pending further investigations.
The neighborhood bash had been set for Saturday on West Jefferson Street.
But two separate shooting incidents took place near there this week.
Two men are still recovering after being shot, and police haven't made any arrests.
Members of the neighborhood association say they understand the need to postpone the party, but they're determined to plan it for a later date.
Bonnie Lentz says it's important not to hide because of crime.
"Our passion is to give them hope and to show them that we believe in you and you can believe in yourself," Lentz explained. "You don't have to accept this. You can change, so I'm not frustrated by it. I grew up in west Bloomington, so this is my home."
Weather permitting, a movie at Friendship Park on West Jefferson Street will still be taking place.
It begins at dusk on Saturday.
