Neighborhood liaisons with the city are hoping to see more applications for block parties as summer kicks into gear.

About 25 block parties have been scheduled so far this year, many of which will be held over the Fourth of July weekend, said Margee Cannon, neighborhood liaison coordinator for the City of Aurora. Typically, about 50 of the community get-togethers are held each year at neighborhoods across the city, she said.

The parties, which require city approval, offer a "feeling of community and a quality of life," Cannon said.

"It provides a way for people to learn who their neighbors are," she said.

The city has streamlined the application process recently, allowing residents to apply online on the city's website at www.auroragov.org/e-services. City officials ask residents to apply about two weeks in advance of the party, Cannon said.

Neighborhood liaisons also provide informational kits for those who may be new to the process. A checklist is included in the packet, in addition to police and fire contacts.

"We've got tools to help them," she said. "Usually the first time is the most cumbersome, but as it becomes an annual event, people really start to look forward to them."

A local nonprofit organization, Neighborhood Resource Center of Colorado, provides $15 certificates to Safeway that help pay for the essentials of a block party, everything from plastic utensils and napkins to ice cream. The city also provides for blockades, though a $75 deposit is required, Cannon said.

Those interested in hosting a party are urged to go the city's website or call 303-739-7280.

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It's sure to be "A Mighty Kid Time!" at this year's KidSpree festival from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 17 and 18 at Bicentennial Park, 13655 E. Alameda Ave., in Aurora, CO. Admission is free.

The 15th annual festival's 2010 theme means plenty of activities related to superheroes. Visit with Batman, Robin and other favorite superheroes. Watch and learn how to do parkour with demonstrations and workshops by some pretty "super" humans. Make your own superhero cape, mask and wristbands. Get a souvenir picture of yourself as a superhero at KidSpree.

Other KidSpree activities include life-size board games like Kandy Lane, Hi Ho! Cherry-O and Aurora Fox Human Chess; a giant maze; MomsLikeMe.com's Toes in the Sand giant sandbox; and tons of art activities.

Entertainment will be provided by the award-winning national children's entertainer Dana and her giant "dog" Rowdy, the FunKinetic, Aurora Dance Arts and the Colorado Disc Dogs. On the Radio Disney KidStage, see dance ensembles, magic shows, karate demonstrations, the Aurora Symphony brass quartet, animal demonstrations and more.

Food and beverages are sold on site.

Parking is free at the Town Center at Aurora's southwest parking lot, with a free shuttle to the park.

For more information, visit www.auroragov.org/kidspree or call 303-326-8FUN (8386).

KidSpree is presented by the city of Aurora's Cultural Services Division, and sponsored by the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District, The Children's Hospital, State Farm, Your Neighborhood Toyota, Old Chicago, Rural/Metro Ambulance, K12 Colorado Virtual Academy, Radio Disney AM 1690, Mix 100, 92.5 The Wolf, the Aurora Sentinel, ColoradoKids.com and MomsLikeMe.com.

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City of Aurora Preschools are currently taking registrations for Fall programs. Summer classes will beginAugust 23. Class information is available online and through theLeisure Living brochure. Fall classes are for children 2-5 years old. Preschool classes provide a nurturing, safe and fun environment with the opportunity to explore, play and learn.

The goalof the City of Aurora Preschool Programis to enrich and touch the lives of the future. We focus on the whole child to offer positive hands-on experiences that build each child's learning skills according to their age and ability. We provide quality classes lead by qualified staff at a competitive cost, develop life skills and kindergarten readiness.

Please call individual preschool sites to learn more or to register.