Lake Placid Merchants Holding Monthly Block Party

A group of Lake Placid merchants is giving residents and visitors a reason to get out "on the town" - at least one night a month.

Business owners on the north end of Main Avenue have organized "Night on North Main Avenue" on the third Friday of the month. The next one will be Jan. 16 from 5 - 8 p.m. in the area between Belleview Avenue and Dal Hall Boulevard.

The event was held in November and December, not only to give people something to do on a Friday but to benefit the businesses that will have later hours. There are plans to continue it through out the year, according to Paula Tharpe of Tiles by Fran Inc.

"It was a fun experience," Tharpe said. "It was neat for people to see each other and be able to mingle."

Tharpe is hoping to line up gospel music in February. She wants to have activities for children.

Jeni Novak opened The Art Studio last August a few doors from Tharpe's store. Novak said it is important for the merchants to work together to let people know what businesses are in that area.

She added that it is tougher for businesses on the north side of Main to attract people attending the big events such as the Caladium Festival and Lake Placid Country Fair because the festival and fair are located along Interlake Boulevard and the circle near Lake Placid Town Hall.

"We're off the beaten path," said Novak, the artist, instructor and owner of The Art Studio.

Novak said she will have refreshments, including food that is both salty and sweet, as well information on art classes.

Penny Spicer, owner of Tropical Island Wear, said it is a good way to get people downtown.

"It was nice to see activity on the street," said Spicer, who noted that she has kept her store open on Fridays until 7 p.m. since November 2007.

Buddy Careri, owner of Chef Buddy's Italian-American Deli, said his eatery had a good night for the November event. But he noted there wasn't much of a turnout in December probably because it was too close to Christmas.

"It has to be advertised," Careri said.

A total of 13 businesses will be participating.