The Haight has a lot of things going for it, but consistency isn't usually one of them. Lots of businesses on the street shuffle frequently, leaving an ever-evolving group of merchants and employees with little chance to get to know each other. 

Lately, some dedicated citizens have been stepping up to try to foster some esprit de corps in our little burg. First Thursdays, started late last year, has been getting people out into the neighborhood. The Red Vic is showing cool exhibits of local photography. Second Act, now in its second year, is a community gathering place. We've got mobile libraries, Panhandle festivals, and artistic beat cops. Little by little, the Haight seems to be coming together. 

Now, in a whimsical move toward neighborhood solidarity, Charles Liddel of Avenue Cyclery has been distributing flyers calling for an Upper Haight merchants kickball league to try to circle the wagons and create more community.

Plans are still in the early stages, and a date for the first game hasn't been set, but we checked in with Liddel to learn more and help spread the word.

Avenue Cyclery, according to Liddel, is the second oldest shop in the city. Many of its employees live and work in the Haight. "All of us here at Avenue Cyclery come from different backgrounds not only sharing a passion for bicycles but also for community as well," he said. "We love our neighborhood and want to spearhead an activity that will allow individuals that work in the neighborhood to get to know each other. It will also allow us to learn about our fellow neighborhood businesses to easier recommend services and products locally."

So, why kickball? "You don't need any real skill to play kickball," he said. "It is super fun and not serious. Remember playing when you were in grade school? It is just a downright good time." Liddel envisions cook-outs, beer, and an actual tournament with actual prizes. He's encouraging merchants to get creative with their teams (think goofy outfits, shirts, etc.). "This won't really be about competition, so don't worry about skill, let's just get out there and have some fun this summer!"

Presently, the tournament will just be open to merchants (and Liddel promises to let us know if that changes), but that doesn't mean you can't pick your favorite merchant and cheer them on. Update: If you're a merchant interested in participating, email asthesunsets.cl {at} gmail {dot} com to learn more. 

We'll let you know when the teams are signed up and the schedule is live. In the meantime, tell us what local merchant you might want to root for in the comments.