This summer, Mayor Ron Shaffer is beseeching residents to ask not what Prairie Village can do for them, but what they can do for Prairie Village. His suggestion? Hang out more with your neighbors.

In his column in the city’s newsletter, Shaffer writes that he “challenge(s) Prairie Village residents to make the most of this season. Enjoy the time outdoors with family and friends. Enjoy the pride that comes from working in the yard or garden. And, more importantly, use this time to connect with your neighbors…

“Sponsoring a block party is a great way to get to know your neighbors. A block party will let you close off the street, providing more room for you and your neighbors to enjoy each other’s company, as well as a large, safe are for children to play.”

Well, we here at shawneemissionpost.com think that sounds like a pretty solid idea. Which is why we’ve  decided to host the first ever Prairie Village Post Block Party Contest.

Here’s how it works:

Shoot us an email at stories [at] shawneemissionpost.com to let us know when you and your neighbors are throwing a block party. We’ll show up to document the event for posterity (and so we can post some pictures on the site). We’ll also sample your fare, taking careful notes along the way so that in September, as summer draws to a close, we’ll have enough information to name winners in the following categories:

• Best beverage selection
• Best burger
• Best brat/hot dog
• Best side dish
• Best yard game performance
• Best music
• Best overall block party experience

And, yes, this is probably just a ploy for us to get free beer and hot dogs. But it will be a lot of fun for everyone. Send us those invites!